Rivers United earned an important goalless draw away to Jeunesse Sportive de Kinshasa in the CAF Champions League preliminary round, keeping their qualification hopes alive ahead of the return leg in Nigeria.
The Nigerian side, making a return to continental competition, faced a spirited Congolese debutant team at the imposing Stade des Martyrs on Saturday.
JS Kinshasa, nicknamed Les Aigles du Congo, impressed in their first appearance on Africa’s biggest club stage, dominating possession and moving the ball with confidence.
But despite their early control, they lacked the composure in attack to seriously trouble Rivers United’s backline.
The visitors, meanwhile, absorbed pressure effectively, with Ubong Friday and Temple Emekayi closing down spaces.
Goalkeeper Osagie Oni was rarely called into major action, as the Congolese struggled to turn their enterprise into clear chances.
After the break, Rivers United coach Finidi George introduced Wisdom Samuel and Wasiu Falolu for Taofeek Otaniyi and Okon Aniekeme in a bid to spark the attack.
The changes added energy but failed to deliver the away goal that would have given the Nigerians a clear advantage.
Both teams pushed for a breakthrough in the closing stages, but the game finished with neither side able to find the cutting edge.
For Rivers United, the stalemate represents a solid platform. The Port Harcourt-based side will now look to complete the job in front of their supporters at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo next weekend.
A win on home soil would secure passage to the next round of Africa’s premier club competition.
For JS Kinshasa, the challenge will be to replicate their fearless approach away from home in the hope of springing a shock against a more experienced Nigerian side.
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With everything still to play for, the return leg promises to be a tense and decisive contest.
Elsewhere for Nigerian Clubs
NPFL champions Remo Stars begin their own CAF Champions League campaign on Sunday when they host Comoros outfit US Zilimadjou in Abeokuta.
Daniel Ogunmodede’s men will be looking to make a strong statement in front of their home fans before travelling for the second leg.
In the CAF Confederation Cup, Kwara United face a tricky clash against Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko.
The Ilorin-based side are hoping to build on recent domestic momentum and give themselves an advantage going into the second leg of the tie.
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Meanwhile Abia Warriors led by Coach Imama Amapakabo will make their debut on the continent when the clash with Djoliba SC of Mali by 4pm at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo Akwa Ibom State.
