CAFCC: Rampant Rivers United trounce ASEC Mimosas in Uyo

Rivers United proved their mettle on the continent with a 3-0 win over Cote d’Ivoire’s ASEC Mimosas in their CAF Confederation Cup Matchday Two clash at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. The NPFL champions showed great quality and endeavour to ensure that they emerged with all three points from the encounter.

Following a disappointing opening day performance and defeat in Congo Brazzaville at the hands of Diables Noirs, Rivers United needed to put on a show in their adopted home of Uyo. They were up against ASEC Mimosas, a side that played out a drab draw in their opener.

The NPFL champions needed only 17 seconds to lay down a marker as they found the net straight from kick-off. Burly striker Nyima Nwagua set up Malachi Ohawume to score the opening goal of the encounter and put the Pride of Rivers in the driving seat.

ASEC Mimosas responded well to going behind as they sought to find an equaliser but they found Sochima Victor, back in the team after losing his spot to Seidu Mutawakilu, as an impassable barrier. The former Jigawa Golden Stars goaltender kept his side in the lead with some fine stops.

Three minutes to the end of the first stanza of play, Rivers United doubled their advantage. Former Gombe United midfielder Ukeme Williams rifled home his first goal since joining the side in the off-season, sending them in with a two-goal cushion.

The home side scored a third of the game in the 48th minute as they made a fast start to the second half. Cameroonian defender Denis Ndasi Kadiang popped up with a powerful header to add his name to the scoresheet.

Rivers United held on to keep a clean sheet at home, securing all three points as well. The Pride of Rivers will look to build on this performance in their next group match.