CAFCL: Dynamos warned to anticipate different Rivers United test away

Former Zambian international Francis Kasonde has partly blamed Power Dynamos struggles to break down Rivers United in their CAF Champions League fixture due to the poor condition of the pitch but warned them to anticipate a different game in in Nigeria.

Dynamos and Rivers United played out a 0-0 stalemate at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia on Saturday. It was a frustrating match for hosts Dynamos, who failed to take advantage of multiple opportunities while the visitors enjoyed a strong performance from goalkeeper Osagie Onisodumeya.

Despite the urgency, neither side was able to find the breakthrough in a contest marked more by caution than cutting edge. Dynamos, backed by home support, showed greater intent in the early stages and tried to impose themselves through quick transitions and balls into the channels.

Rivers United, however, remained compact and disciplined, limiting clear chances and slowing the tempo whenever pressure mounted.

Dynamos should expect different match

“The main factor, which is the ground, is very bad. I don’t think it’s easy for the home team and the away team to play football,” Kasonde said as quoted by Bola News.

“I don’t know if the turf is heavy or too soft, because even the movement of the boys is not smooth. It’s very difficult to play football on that pitch.”

Kasonde added: “Power Dynamos looked like a team that wanted to win and they tried whatever they could, but the results were not coming.

“The pitch doesn’t reflect the real situation of the game because even the visitors struggled. Power Dynamos should expect a different match when they go to Nigeria, especially if Rivers United has a good pitch.”

The stalemate came after both teams had lost their opening two matches, leaving them desperate to kick-start their campaigns.