Finidi George Hails Rivers United Bravery After Five-Goal Thriller in Bauchi

Posted : 12 May 2026

Rivers United technical adviser Finidi George has lauded his players for their mental toughness following a dramatic 3-2 victory over Wikki Tourists. The Matchday 37 encounter took place at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium on Sunday. This high-scoring affair saw the "Pride of Rivers" come from behind twice to secure all three points on the road. The result ensures that the NPFL title race will go down to the wire on the final day of the season.

The match began with high intensity as the home side sought to avoid the drop. Jonathan Mairiga opened the scoring for Wikki Tourists in the 21st minute with a clinical finish. Rivers United responded before the break when Handsome Surveyor equalized in the 34th minute. However, the hosts regained the lead just four minutes after the restart through Imamu Bala. Despite these setbacks, the Port Harcourt side refused to yield under pressure.

Chijioke Mbaoma leveled the scores again in the 59th minute to set up a frantic finale. The decisive moment arrived in the 83rd minute when Taofeek Otaniyi struck the winner. Finidi George admitted in his post-match briefing that the contest was exceptionally difficult. He noted the difficulty of fighting back twice in front of a hostile home crowd. The coach emphasized that such bravery is necessary for a team chasing the league championship.

The victory has significant implications for the league standings. Rivers United now sits in second place with 64 points from 37 matches. They remain just one point behind leaders Enugu Rangers, who also won their fixture. This win also mathematically secured Rivers United’s qualification for the 2026/2027 CAF Champions League. Meanwhile, the defeat confirmed Wikki Tourists' relegation from the Nigerian top flight after a disappointing campaign.

Finidi George is now focusing on the final home game against Katsina United. He stated that his team must win their last match and hope for a slip from Rangers. The technical manager expressed satisfaction that the title race remains within reach. He urged the supporters to turn out in large numbers for the season finale. Rivers United will look to capitalize on their momentum to snatch the crown on the final day.

Finidi George Hails Rivers United Bravery After Five-Goal Thriller in Bauchi

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