Rivers United Make History, Qualify for CAF Champions League Group Stage
Rivers United have booked their place in the CAF Champions League group stage after edging Mozambique’s Black Bulls 3–2 on aggregate, becoming the first Nigerian side to achieve the feat since Lobi Stars in the 2018/2019 season.
The Port Harcourt-based team’s triumph also marks a significant early success for new manager Finidi George, who has guided the side into Africa’s elite club competition just months after taking charge.
Having suffered a narrow 1–0 loss in the first leg in Maputo last week, Rivers United turned the tie around in emphatic fashion with a 3–1 victory in the return leg at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Saturday.
Wasiu Falolu opened the scoring in the 15th minute with a composed finish to level the aggregate score. The hosts doubled their advantage just before halftime when Maclyn Biokpo converted from the penalty spot to give Rivers the lead in the tie.
The visitors, however, fought back after the restart, with Moctar Diallo finding the net to bring the Black Bulls back into contention. But Rivers United restored their advantage in the 75th minute when Timothy Zachariah unleashed a powerful strike to seal the victory and secure a historic qualification.
With the win, Rivers United advance to the prestigious group stage of the CAF Champions League, where they will compete against some of Africa’s top clubs.
The group stage draw is scheduled for November 3.
