Rivers United head coach Finidi George was impressed with his side’s defensive display, after they held El-Kanemi Warriors to a goalless draw away from home in the NPFL on Sunday.
The former Nigerian Premier Football League champions produced a resolute display to preserve their unbeaten start to the 2025/26 season.
The home side had netted twice in their previous home match, but their attacking threats were thwarted by an impressive defending from the Pride of Rivers.
“Overall, I think we’re quite happy with the result”, the former Super Eagles coach revealed.
“The first half was 50-50. But in the second half, especially in the last 25 minutes, they tried to push us back. We had to defend and look for opportunities to counter.
“But as much as we tried, they were quicker to the ball and piled on the pressure. Overall, I think we’re quite happy to have secured a point in the end.”
Rivers United began their 2025/26 season with a brilliant performance, holding defending champions Remo Stars to a 1-1 draw in Ikenne.
They recorded their first win of the season in front of their home fans on matchday two, securing a narrow 1-0 against Kwara United.
“I must tell you this is a very difficult place to come and get a point”, Finidi continued.
“But today, I think my team defended very well, especially in the last 25 minutes of the game when we tried to go on the counter. We got close but couldn’t quite make it happen.”
Finid George’s men sit eighth on the NPFL standings with five points after three matches and play host to Shooting Stars next Sunday, before facing JSK in the Caf Champions League preliminary round.

Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.



