Rivers United have written a golden chapter in Nigerian football history after defeating Mozambique’s Black Bulls 3–1 in Uyo to qualify for the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time ever.
The Pride of Nigeria overturned a first-leg deficit to progress 3–2 on aggregate, becoming the first Nigerian side to reach the group stage of Africa’s top club competition since Lobi stars appearance in 2018/2019 season.
The hosts began brightly at the Nest of Champions, and their early pressure paid off in the 15th minute when Wasiu Falolu struck from close range to put Rivers United in front.
Their dominance continued, and in the 42nd minute, Maclyn Biokpo doubled the lead from the penalty spot to make it 2–0, giving coach Finidi George’s men firm control of the contest.
However, Mozambique’s Black Bulls pulled one back shortly after the restart, with Moctar Diallo finding the net in the 47th minute, the second goal Rivers United have conceded on the continent this season.
Despite the setback, Rivers United kept their composure and regained momentum in the 76th minute when Timothy Zachariah unleashed a superb strike to restore the two-goal cushion and seal a historic 3–1 win.
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It was the first time this season Rivers United have scored more than one goal in a match, a timely improvement on the biggest night of their campaign.
Finidi George makes history with the Pride of Rivers. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
The victory means Finidi George’s men will join Africa’s elite clubs in the CAF Champions League group stage scheduled to begin in November.
Rivers United now stand as Nigeria’s only remaining representative on the continent after Abia Warriors and Kwara United were eliminated in the preliminary rounds. Remo Stars, trailing 5–1 after a heavy home defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns in Abeokuta, are also on the brink of exiting.
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The result ends a seven-year wait for Nigeria in the CAF Champions League group stage, the last appearance coming in 2018/2019 season when Lobi stars qualified after defeating UMS de Loum of Cameroon 2-1 on aggregate.
