CAFCL: Power Dynamos’ Nigerian defender Bamidele says no loyalty to Rivers United

Power Dynamos’ Nigerian defender Ayodeji Bamidele has ruled out divided loyalty when the Zambian champions host his countrymen Rivers United on Saturday.

The former Nigeria’s Shooting Stars centre-back commented on the CAF Champions League (CAFCL) Group A game on Friday during a post-match press conference.

“Playing against my home country’s team is part of my job,” he said, as quoted by the Football Association of Zambia Facebook page. “They [Rivers United] also came to do their job, and I have to do mine tomorrow. We know what is at stake; we will do all we can to get a victory.”

Bamidele went on to share insights on what to expect from the Nigeria Premier Football League champions. He said he has a fair idea of how Rivers United play and who their key players are.

“Yes, I have played them. I know them but it is our preparations that will make us win the game. Every game is there for us to win, especially as champions from last season,” the defender added.

The 27-year-old has since called for massive support during the game.

“They should come and support us, and in return, we will give them what they want,” he said.

How good are Power Dynamos?

The Zambian champions go into the Champions League game buoyed by a three-consecutive game winning streak in the domestic MTN Super League.

Coach Osward Mutapa hopes to see Dynamos transfer domestic league form into the Champions League. The Super League champions remain winless after playing two games in the group.

Dynamos lost 3-0 to RS Berkane in Morocco on November 22 before falling again 1-0 to holders Pyramids FC.

In the opposite camp, Rivers United are searching for their first win in the group.

Tickets are going at USD 1.2 (20 Zambia Kwacha) (East, North and South), USD 1.53 (30 Zambia Kwacha) (West Wing) and USD 10.20 (200 Zambia Kwacha (VIP).

Fixtures:

Group A

Saturday, 24 January

13:00 GMT — Power Dynamos FC (ZAM) vs Rivers United FC (NGA)

19:00 GMT — RS Berkane (MAR) vs Pyramids FC (EGY)

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