CAF Champions League: Rivers United ready to build on momentum

Rivers United head coach Finidi George said that the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side will build on their CAF Champions League first round win ahead of the final qualifying round for the group stage.

QUALIFICATION TICKET GOAL!

Stephen Manyo sealed the win with a lightning-fast reaction, heading home the rebound after Ubong Friday’s pinpoint free kick was parried by the goalkeeper in the dying minutes of the first half! 👏 pic.twitter.com/c4cNFniXPw

— Rivers United FC (@RiversUnitedFC) September 29, 2025

The Pride of Rivers eliminated Democratic Republic of Congo side Aigles du Congo 1-0 on aggregate to qualify for the second preliminary round of the CAF Champions League where they will face Black Bulls of Mozambique.

Reflecting on the victory, Finidi admitted it was hard fought but praised his players for getting the job done.

“We know it won’t be easy, but we’ll build on this win. The most important thing is that we scaled through this round and can now focus on our next opponent.”

Looking ahead, the former Super Eagles winger assured fans that Rivers United will be ready for the Mozambican champions.

“We’ll prepare well for Black Bulls. It’s going to be tough, but this win gives us something to build on.”

Rivers United will travel to Maputo for the first leg on Friday, 17 October before going back to Uyo for the return leg where the winner over the legs will make it into the group stage.