Rivers United produced one of their most convincing performances of the season, crushing El Kanemi Warriors 3-0 in a dominant Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) display.

The result pushed the Pride of Rivers back up to the top of the NPFL table, strengthening their title ambitions, Footballrover reports.

Douglas’ Rising Influence in Rivers United’s Midfield Play

Coach Finidi George was particularly impressed with midfielder Iyowuna Douglas, whom he described as a player with exceptional football intelligence.

Finidi explained that Douglas has shown steady improvement since the pre-season period.

According to him, the player’s decision-making and vision have become key assets for the team.

“We know; this is a player we saw in the pre-season. We think he has that quality to play. There is clarity in his game. But when the league started, we felt he was not strong enough.”

The coach admitted that his physical strength was initially a concern, but Douglas has worked on his game intensity.

His ability to move the ball quickly and link up with teammates helped improve the team’s attacking rhythm during the match.

“I think, over time, he has built that and tried to play a little bit quicker. His IQ of the game is quite different from others. It is a plus for us at this last part of the league.”

The midfielder replaced Taofeek Otaniyi in the 59th minute and immediately injected freshness into Rivers United’s midfield control at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.

“We’re quite happy” — Tactical Impact and Squad Depth

Douglas’ performance in only his second appearance of the season gave the Garden City side more balance in both attack and defence.

“We’re quite happy with the introduction of Iyowuna Douglas… he gave us that freshness in the midfield, that clarity in the midfield. We’re quite happy for him.”

Finidi added that consistency will determine how much playing time Douglas earns going forward.

“This is his second game; I hope he continues this way. I would say, on the overall performance, we deserve the maximum three points.”

The victory also highlighted the growing confidence within the squad as they continue their NPFL campaign.

Samuel and Mbaoma Break Goal Droughts for Rivers United

Wisdom Samuel and Chijioke Mbaoma were the heroes of the evening, both ending their goal droughts to secure a comfortable victory for former NPFL champions in the rain-soaked encounter.

Wisdom Samuel scored twice, including an early opener in the ninth minute that set the tempo for the match.

The winger has mostly been used as a substitute this season but responded strongly when given a starting opportunity.

Mbaoma also joined the scoring party by converting a calm penalty kick to double the advantage for the Port Harcourt side.

Samuel later completed his brace with a superb strike that sealed the 3-0 result – the team’s biggest win of the season.

Defensive Concerns After Injury Scare

There was some anxiety in the first half when Stephen Manyo suffered a knock during play. Finidi reacted strongly on the touchline as the medical team checked on the player.

“We were trying to see if he could continue and how serious that injury was. When I spoke with him on the touchline, he said he could continue.”

The coach revealed that the injury appeared to be related to a groin strain, but further assessment would be conducted before the next game against Bendel Insurance FC.

“We’ll see how serious it is. I think it’s a groin; he’s overstretched. Maybe it’s groin, but we’ll see by tomorrow how well he will be.”

But when Footballrover reached out to the defender, he said, “Thank you. I dey alright.”

Title Race Pressure Remains High for Rivers United

Meanwhile, the win extended Rivers United’s unbeaten record against El Kanemi Warriors to six games — three wins and two draws.

More importantly, the victory moved the Port Harcourt outfit two points clear at the top of the NPFL standings, with two games in hand providing an additional advantage in the title chase.

The team will now shift focus to the South-South derby against Bendel Insurance on Sunday as the season enters its decisive phase.

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Last Updated on March 5, 2026 10:15 am by footballrover