Rivers United produced a spirited display in Uyo to defeat Black Bulls 3–1 in their CAF Champions League second-leg clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, sealing their place in the group stage of Africa’s premier club competition.

The CAF Champions League fixture was moved from Sunday to Saturday due to Davido’s concert at the stadium, and the switch appeared to favour the NPFL side, who arrived with renewed belief despite losing the first leg 1–0 in Maputo, Footballrover reports.

Rivers United Take Charge in CAF Champions League Battle

Following Remo Stars’ shocking 5–1 collapse to Mamelodi Sundowns—the Port Harcourt giants carried the hopes of the nation on their shoulders into the clash.

Finidi George’s men started with purpose and intensity.

The breakthrough came in the 15th minute when a dangerous free-kick caused chaos in the penalty area, allowing Wasiu Falolu to pounce on a loose ball and fire Rivers United in front.

The pressure continued, and in the 42nd minute, Maclyn Biokpo doubled the lead from the penalty spot, calmly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to make it 2–0 at halftime.

Zachariah Delivers Decisive Blow as United Advance

Black Bulls came out swinging in the second half and were quickly rewarded when Moctar Diallo pulled one back in the 47th minute, briefly dragging the tie level on aggregate.

However, the Garden City side refused to panic.

The hosts regained control, and their persistence paid off in the 76th minute when Timothy Zachariah smashed home a brilliant effort to restore the two-goal cushion and seal a 3–1 victory—3–2 on aggregate.

The result stands as United’s biggest win of the season so far, and more importantly, it sends them into the CAF Champions League group phase, where tougher tests await.

Rivers United have finally booked their spot in the CAF Champions League group stage for the first time ever, achieving the milestone on their fourth attempt.

They also become the first Nigerian side to reach the CAFCL group phase since Lobi Stars in the 2018/19 campaign.

Meanwhile, Finidi George makes history as the first Nigerian coach in seven years to guide a Nigerian club into the group stage of Africa’s biggest club competition.

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Last Updated on October 26, 2025 9:56 am by footballrover