CAF Champions League: Wasteful Power Dynamos held to draw by Rivers United

Zambia’s Power Dynamos and Nigerian club Rivers United played out a 0-0 stalemate at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia to begin Saturday’s action from the CAF Champions League.

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.

Onisodumeya was called into action inside ten minutes when his sprawling dive prevented the hosts from opening the scoring. In the 22nd minute, Osagie then came out to smother an opportunity when Dynamos attacker Frederick Mulambia played Prince Mumba behind the defense on the left wing.

More frustration ensued when Mumba floated an excellent cross from the right wing to the far post. However, Malawi international Chifundo Mphasi got under his volley attempt which went off target.

The best opportunity for the visitors came in the 67th minute on a counter-attack. Taofeek Otaniyi received a pass on the left wing and was able to cut inside and fire from distance but his effort was pushed away by Zambia national team goalkeeper Willard Mwanza.

Substitute forward Moses Shumah rattled the post eight minutes later with a powerful snap header for Dynamos, among a couple more opportunities for the hosts in the final minutes. But last season’s Nigeria Premier Football League runners-up held on for a rare point away from home in continental competition.

The result does little for both teams in the end, who each earned their first point in the group stage, as they attempt to gain ground on Group A favorites RS Berkane and reigning African club champions Pyramids FC. A victory will be essential for both teams when they meet again next Sunday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria.

RS Berkane and Pyramids will meet later on Saturday evening in Morocco in a battle for top spot in Group A.

CAF Champions League: Group A Table