Rivers United head coach Finidi George is confident his side can pull off a surprise result when they face Pyramids FC in their 2025-26 CAF Champions League opener on Saturday.
The former NPFL champions travel to Egypt as they commence their continental campaign against the defending champions.
The Pride of Rivers had become the first Nigerian club to qualify for the group stages of the competition in seven years, since Lobi Stars participation in the 2017-18 season.
They eliminated Mozambique side Black Bulls 3-2 on aggregate in the final round of qualifying to seal their progress into the group phase.
However, they face a tough task of progressing from the group stage after they were placed in group A alongside Pyramids, RS Berkane and Power Dynamos.
Speaking ahead of the clash, former Super Eagles manager Finidi George admitted that his side are fully prepared and ready for the clash.
“We are looking forward to an interesting game against the defending champions.
“It is going to be a good game, the atmosphere is good, and we are looking forward to the game”, Finidi said.
Rivers United head into the clash on the back of a seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions.
The 2022 Nigerian league champions recorded a 2-1 win over Warri Wolves in their last outing.
They are currently third on the league standings with 23 points, one behind league leaders Ikorodu City, although they have one game in hand.
Pyramids, on the other hand, progressed after eliminating Ethiopian Insurance in the qualifying rounds.
The Egyptian side head into the clash as favorites and defending champions of the competition after winning their first title in the 2024-25 season.
The match will take place at the Pyramids Arena, with kickoff scheduled at 8 PM later tonight.
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.
