Rivers United face a daunting task in their CAF Champions League clash against Pyramids FC tomorrow, looking to salvage pride after a series of heavy defeats.

The Nigerian champions are under pressure to produce a strong performance as they aim for their first victory in Group A, Footballrover reports.

Rivers United look to reclaim pride in CAFCL clash

Coming off a 1–0 home defeat to Zambia’s Power Dynamos last Sunday, the Pride of Rivers’ continental campaign has been tough.

With only one point from four matches, Rivers United sit at the bottom of Group A, leaving their qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Reflecting on their most recent outing, head coach Finidi George believes the result did not fully reflect his side’s effort.

“If you look at our last match, despite the fact that we conceded that goal, we had a couple of chances to have scored. We could have equalised the match or even won the match. But like I always say, football is all about winning, and we couldn’t get the win the last time,” he said.

Despite the slim chances of progression, Finidi stressed that the Port Harcourt outfit will approach the game with pride and renewed intent.

“So, we just play for our pride this time around. We still have to continue and change our attitude, especially in the first half. In a game like this, we have to be very aggressive in the first 20 minutes.”

Pyramids a tough test for Rivers United

Pyramids, the defending champions, have shown their quality throughout the group stage.

Their 3–0 victory over Morocco’s RS Berkane on Sunday pushed them to 10 points and tightened their grip on qualification.

Rivers United were also on the receiving end of a heavy defeat in the first meeting between both sides, with Ahmed Atef El Sayed scoring a hat-trick to seal a commanding win for the Egyptians.

Finidi is under no illusion about the challenge ahead but remains focused on extracting a strong response from his players.

“We want the players to do their utmost best to make sure we get our first victory. I know it’s not going to be an easy match,” he said.

Rivers United aim for first CAFCL victory

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) leaders know the stakes will be high at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

“This team that’s coming here, they also want to seal their qualification here by not losing. We know we have to play for our pride, the players’ pride, and the club’s pride,” Finidi stated.

The former Super Eagles boss added that focus and belief will be key if the NPFL side are to end their winless run in the competition.

“We can’t be disturbed and not win the game. So, that’s going to be the focus for tomorrow. Everybody has to think positively that victory is possible.

“We’ll go all out and see what happens. Experience is the best teacher. Once you have that experience in a tournament or in a competition, I think the next time you’re faced with that same situation, you’ll do better.”

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Last Updated on February 7, 2026 5:14 pm by footballrover