2025/2026 CAF Champions League: Rivers United Claim First Group Stage Point

Posted : 26 January 2026

Rivers United FC secured their first point of the 2025/2026 CAF Champions League group stage after battling to a hard-earned 0–0 draw against Zambia’s Power Dynamos FC at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

Goalkeeper Osagie Onisodumeya once again emerged as the standout performer for the Pride of Rivers, producing a series of superb saves to deny the hosts and earn his side a valuable point on the road. While the result did little to fully revive Rivers United’s continental campaign, it marked a significant improvement and provided a platform to build on ahead of the return fixture in Uyo.

Cagey Opening Exchanges

The encounter, Rivers United’s second group-stage match, failed to produce goals despite early promise from both sides. The visitors started brightly, creating several early chances to quieten the home support. Stephen Manyo came closest early on with a header that was deflected for a corner, while Ubong Friday fired over from distance in the seventh minute. The tempo then dipped as both teams settled into a cautious, possession-based contest.

Onisodumeya Stands Tall

Power Dynamos nearly broke the deadlock in the 11th minute when Eddy Ankobo rose for a close-range header, but Onisodumeya reacted superbly to keep the effort out. Ten minutes later, he raced off his line to deny Chifundo Mphasi, and later parried Prince Mumba’s goal-bound effort, frustrating the hosts’ attack. Rivers United gradually regained control in midfield through Boluwaji Sholumade, Taofeek Otaniyi, and Seyi Oguntayo. Technical Manager Finidi George made a first-half substitution in the 37th minute, introducing Duke Osimaga for the injured Ogechukwu Ogbu.

Second-Half Resistance

The second half took time to ignite, but Rivers United nearly took the lead just after the hour mark when Taofeek Otaniyi slipped past his marker, forcing a sharp save from the goalkeeper. Power Dynamos responded, with substitute Moses Shumah rising well to meet a cross, only for his header to be brilliantly tipped onto the post by Onisodumeya. Finidi George made further substitutions, bringing on Okon Aniekeme, Wasiu Falolu, Ochobi Elias, and Timothy Zacharia. Despite sustained pressure from the hosts, Rivers United remained resolute, securing a vital away point.

What’s Next

Rivers United will host Power Dynamos in the reverse fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Sunday, February 1

2025/2026 CAF Champions League: Rivers United Claim First Group Stage Point

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