Rivers United Not Out of CAF Champions League Yet, but Need a Miracle Against Pyramids
Nigeria’s Rivers United are not mathematically out of the CAF Champions League yet, but they will need a miracle and a lot of hard work as they prepare to face Pyramids FC today at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
The Nigeria Premier Football League leaders have struggled in Africa this season and sit bottom of Group A with just one point from four matches. However, football is full of surprises, and qualification is still possible, though very unlikely.
If Rivers United can beat Pyramids today and then record another big win away to RS Berkane in Morocco, they could still finish with seven points. In that case, they would also need Pyramids to beat Power Dynamos in Egypt, which could see three teams finish on seven points and Rivers United progress on goal difference. It is a difficult path, but not impossible.
Despite the tough situation, head coach Finidi George has urged his players to show pride and fight for the club. Speaking before the match, he said his team must start strongly and play with aggression and responsibility.
“So, we just play for our pride this time around. We still have to continue and change our attitude, especially in the first half,” Finidi said. “In a game like this, we have to be very aggressive in the first 20 minutes.”
Group A is still competitive. Pyramids lead with 10 points, while RS Berkane and Power Dynamos both have seven points. Rivers United are bottom with one point, but their remaining matches could still affect who qualifies for the quarter-finals.
Finidi admitted the challenge will be huge, as Pyramids are the reigning African champions and are eager to secure their place in the next round. Still, he believes his players must give everything for the badge.
“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. “We know we have to play for our pride, the players’ pride, and the club’s pride.”
For Rivers United, today’s match is about belief, effort, and dignity. A big win against Pyramids would keep their slim hopes alive and send a strong message that they are ready to fight until the end.
