Rivers United head coach Finidi George says his team will take their “tough” CAF Champions League group as a challenge rather than a burden, insisting the Nigerian side will be ready to compete when the time comes.
The Pride of Rivers were drawn in Group A alongside Egyptian champions Pyramids FC, reigning CAF Confederation Cup holders RS Berkane, and Zambian side Power Dynamos.
Speaking after the draw, Finidi described it as “a good draw” despite the quality of opposition.
“It’s a good draw, a difficult group, but if you want to compete in this tournament you have to play the best,” he said.
“We’ll prepare when the time comes. For now, we’ll concentrate on our league games, and when it’s closer, we’ll get the boys ready mentally for what’s ahead.”
Finidi George alongside his Assistants at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. Photo Credit: Rivers United/X
On representing Nigeria as the country’s sole team in the group stage, Finidi said the challenge was a source of extra motivation rather than pressure.
“It’s extra motivation for the players having this platform,” he explained. “It’s going to bring a lot of expectations and confidence. They’re all looking forward to it, it’s time to show what they have.”
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Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
The former Super Eagles winger added that his team’s defensive discipline would be crucial.
“There’s no pressure. We just need to do the basics defensively. If we defend properly for 90 minutes, we’ll have our moments,” Finidi said.
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Rivers United will play their CAF Champions League home games at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with their opening fixture set for November 21–23 against Pyramids FC.
