NPFL: Victory over El-Kanemi Warriors sees Rivers United back to the top

Rivers United moved back to the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) table on Wednesday after securing a 3-0 victory over El-Kanemi Warriors in their rescheduled Matchday 23 fixture.

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Rivers United 3-0 El-Kanemi Warriors
Wisdom Samuel with a super strike #NPFL26 #MD23 #RIVELK pic.twitter.com/NTqExorG8d

— Rivers United FC (@RiversUnitedFC) March 4, 2026

The match, which was held at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, saw the Pride of Rivers put their foot on the gas to show their determination to secure all three points as Wisdom Samuel fired the hosts into the lead just nine minutes in, ensuring United went into the break with a one-goal advantage.

​While the second half began as a more balanced affair, the momentum shifted in the 71st minute when Chijioke Mbaoma opened his goal account for the season from the penalty spot. Samuel then added a third in stoppage time to seal his brace and the victory.

​A statement victory for Rivers United

The win sees Finidi George’s side move top of the league with 49 points. With two games still in hand, the Port Harcourt club is now in a strong position to push for their second league title.

THE LOG.

How things stand after #RIVELK.#NPFL26 pic.twitter.com/9WUlELJNGF

— NPFL News 🇳🇬 (@NPFL_News) March 4, 2026

​This result was a vital bounce back for Rivers United, who needed to recover following a narrow South-South derby defeat to Bayelsa United on Sunday.

The league title race took another dramatic turn on Wednesday evening as Rivers United returned to the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League standings following a convincing 3-0 victory over El-Kanemi Warriors in their rescheduled Matchday 23 fixture.

Played at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, the encounter saw the Pride of Rivers deliver a confident and disciplined performance that underlined their growing title ambitions this season.

Rivers United started the match with intensity and purpose, pressing high and forcing the visitors onto the back foot from the opening whistle. Their early dominance paid off in the ninth minute when Wisdom Samuel produced a stunning strike to break the deadlock and ignite celebrations among the home supporters.

The forward’s effort gave the hosts an early advantage and set the tone for what would become a commanding performance. With the goal advantage secured, the Port Harcourt side controlled possession and limited the attacking opportunities of El-Kanemi Warriors throughout the remainder of the first half.

Despite a few promising moments from the visitors, the home defence remained solid and composed, ensuring that Rivers United went into halftime with a narrow but deserved 1-0 lead.

Rivers United take control in second half

The second half began with both sides showing more attacking intent as El-Kanemi Warriors attempted to find an equaliser. However, the hosts gradually regained control of the match and began creating more dangerous opportunities in the final third.

Their persistence was rewarded in the 71st minute when Rivers United were awarded a penalty after sustained pressure inside the opposition box. Striker Chijioke Mbaoma stepped forward and calmly converted from the spot, registering his first goal of the season and doubling the advantage for Finidi George’s side.

The goal further boosted the confidence of the home team, who continued to push forward in search of more goals. El-Kanemi Warriors struggled to respond effectively as the hosts maintained their dominance in midfield and attack.

Deep into stoppage time, Wisdom Samuel struck again to complete his brace and seal the victory. His late goal ensured the match ended 3-0 and capped off an impressive individual performance.

NPFL title race heats up

The victory carries significant implications for the league title race. With the three points secured, Rivers United climbed back to the top of the league standings with 49 points.

Even more encouraging for the Port Harcourt club is the fact that they still have two games in hand compared to some of their closest rivals. This advantage places them in a strong position as the season approaches its decisive stage.

Under the guidance of head coach Finidi George, the team has demonstrated resilience and consistency throughout the campaign. Their balanced squad, combining experienced players and emerging talents, continues to deliver strong performances in crucial matches.

Strong response after derby setback

The win also represented an important response for Rivers United following their recent defeat in the South-South derby against Bayelsa United.

That narrow loss had temporarily slowed their momentum, but Wednesday’s performance showed the team’s determination to bounce back quickly and remain focused on their title ambitions.

By delivering such a dominant display, the Pride of Rivers reaffirmed their status as one of the leading contenders for the championship.