Rivers United head coach Finidi George admitted his side were outplayed after a 4–1 defeat to defending champions Pyramids FC in their CAF Champions League Group A clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The Nigerian champions found themselves on the wrong end of a second half onslaught, leaving their continental hopes all but extinguished.
Stephen Manyo had given Rivers United a surprise first half lead, but the Egyptians responded after the break, scoring four unanswered goals to take control of the match and condemn the hosts to a disappointing result.
Finidi was candid in his assessment, acknowledging that the team’s slow start and inability to maintain intensity after halftime allowed Pyramids to seize the initiative. After the visitors drew level, Rivers United struggled to cope with the quality and experience of their opponents.
“We have to play for our pride,” Finidi said ahead of the match, emphasising the need for aggression and strong starts in games a message he felt was not fully executed on the day. With qualification already out of reach, he highlighted the importance of finishing the campaign with dignity despite the setbacks.
The defeat underscored the gulf in experience and depth between Rivers United and one of Africa’s top clubs, especially after Pyramids’ sustained pressure and clinical finishing late in the game. Although Rivers United had held a first half advantage, the second half exposed defensive vulnerabilities and a lack of cutting edge going forward.
Finidi’s reflections also pointed to broader lessons about the demands of continental football from sustaining performance across 90 minutes to maintaining composure under pressure. With the group stage now concluded, the coach has emphasised character and learning as key takeaways for his squad.
Editorial
For Rivers United, the heavy defeat to Pyramids FC was a sobering moment in what had promised to be a landmark CAF Champions League campaign. Having made history by reaching the group stage for the first time ending Nigeria’s seven year wait for a club in Africa’s premier club competition expectations were high.
However, the gulf in experience between domestic dominance and success on the continental stage was laid bare. Finidi’s reflections particularly his focus on pride and learning are a reminder that growth often comes from adversity. Nigerian clubs, despite rich histories, must adapt to the physical and tactical rigours of CAF competition if they hope to compete consistently with North African and other seasoned sides.
For supporters, the loss is disappointing, but it also highlights the development needed within Nigeria’s club game to bridge the gap with Africa’s elite. Rivers United’s journey, while ended earlier than hoped, offers valuable experience that could benefit both players and coaches as they return to domestic duties and prepare for future continental opportunities.
Did You Know?
- Rivers United suffered a 4–1 CAF Champions League defeat to Pyramids FC in Uyo, with Pyramids scoring four unanswered second-half goals.
- Stephen Manyo gave Rivers United an early lead, but they could not maintain it after halftime.
- The defeat leaves Rivers United bottom of Group A with just one point, effectively ending their qualification hopes.
- Rivers United made history by qualifying for the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time in club history, ending a seven year wait for a Nigerian club at this level.
- Pyramids FC are the defending CAF Champions League title holders, underlining the quality of the opposition Rivers United faced.
