Rivers United defender Stephen Manyo says his mother’s sacrifices are the driving force behind his pursuit of greatness in his football career as the Pride of Rivers continue their unbeaten start to the season.
The 25-year-old defender, who celebrated his birthday today, just days after helping Rivers United progress in the CAF Champions League, spoke about his family’s influence and his team’s ambitions in an exclusive interview with Footballrover.
Stephen Manyo draws strength from his mother’s sacrifices
For Manyo, the timing of the team’s success has felt special.
— “Everything happening this period of my birth month makes it super special,” he said.
“My mom/family, they have been super amazing, but my mom especially has been a force to reckon with, & each time I remember she is getting old, I need to hasten up so she reaps the fruit of her labour. It gives me an extra boost because she has always been my support system, even when my dad was still alive & till this very day. God bless me for her.”
His words strike a chord far beyond the pitch, showing the human side of a player at the heart of a Rivers United side that has conceded the fewest goals in the NPFL this season.
Rivers United’s unbeaten run inspires Champions League dream
Rivers United have carried their domestic form into continental football.
Their disciplined backline, led by Manyo, has been crucial in keeping them unbeaten and reaching the next stage of the CAF Champions League.
— “On the scale of 1-10, I will say 10,” Manyo said when asked about his pride in the team’s defensive record.
“We have done great so far, conceding the least goals in the league. I am super proud of the guys.”
Qualifying for the next stage of the CAF Champions League has made this period even more memorable for Manyo.
— “For me as a player, it means a lot to me because it’s the time of my birth, and things are falling in place for me; it shows greater doors are about to be unlocked,” he said.
The Pride of Rivers recently marked Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day with a 1-0 win over Niger Tornadoes at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium—a victory that extended their home unbeaten streak to 16 league games.
Manyo believes the club’s success stems from a shared commitment.
— “It has been God. Secondly, our coaches are demanding more from us because they believe we can do it. Thirdly, the management have been motivating us in the best way they can. Finally, it’s the cooperation among us, the players,” he said.
Pushing for continental glory
Looking ahead, Manyo has set clear goals for himself and the team.
— “Getting to the group stage of the CAF Champions League and becoming one of the best in Africa — so help me God,” he said.
That ambition reflects the growing confidence within a squad that has combined defensive discipline with a fighting spirit.
With Finidi George’s side showing grit at home and abroad, Rivers United look ready to test themselves against the continent’s elite.
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