2025/2026 CAF Champions League Review: Rivers United FC endure harsh continental lessons after winless CAF campaign

Posted : 16 February 2026

It was a campaign that began with renewed belief but ended in sobering reality for Rivers United, whose 2025/2026 CAF Champions League journey concluded without a single victory in Group A.

For a side that proudly broke a seven-year wait for a Nigerian club to return to the group stage, the final outcome paints a difficult picture. Six matches, one draw, and five defeats left the Port Harcourt outfit rooted to the bottom of a demanding pool.

A promising start before the storm

Rivers United’s continental adventure initially carried optimism after they eliminated Mozambique’s Black Bulls to reach the group phase — a significant achievement in itself. It marked progress for Nigerian club football and raised hopes of a competitive outing.

However, drawn alongside defending champions Pyramids FC, Moroccan heavyweights RS Berkane, and Zambia’s Power Dynamos FC, the scale of the challenge soon became clear.

Group stage struggles

The warning signs appeared early in Cairo, where Pyramids delivered a commanding 3–0 victory to underline their pedigree. Rivers United’s inability to cope with the tempo and precision of the Egyptian champions set the tone for what followed.

Back home, heartbreak struck against RS Berkane. After taking the lead, Rivers conceded twice in stoppage time in a dramatic 2–1 defeat — a loss that exposed defensive vulnerabilities and proved costly in the standings.

Their only point came in a goalless draw away to Power Dynamos, a disciplined performance that produced their lone clean sheet of the campaign. Yet, the persistent lack of attacking spark remained a concern.

When the Zambian side visited Uyo, they capitalized on slim margins to secure a narrow 1–0 victory. Another encounter with Pyramids resulted in a 4–1 loss, effectively extinguishing any faint hopes of revival.

The curtain fell in Morocco at the Stade Municipal de Berkane, where RS Berkane completed the rout with a comprehensive 3–0 win. Goals from Youssef Mehri and a brace by Paul Bassene highlighted the gulf in efficiency and execution between both sides.

Rivers United Group A Record:

Played: 6
Wins: 0
Draws: 1
Losses: 5
Goals Scored: 2
Goals Conceded: 13

The statistics underline a difficult campaign defined by limited goal threat and costly lapses, particularly in decisive moments.

A reality check for the NPFL side

While domestic campaigns often demand consistency and resilience, continental football requires tactical sharpness, squad depth, and ruthless finishing — qualities Rivers United struggled to maintain against seasoned opposition.

With Pyramids FC and RS Berkane progressing comfortably, Rivers United’s exit reflects the broader competitive gap Nigerian clubs must bridge to compete effectively at Africa’s highest level.

For the Pride of Rivers, this experience, though painful, may serve as a foundation for rebuilding — a reminder that continental ambition must be matched with preparation, depth, and sustained quality.

2025/2026 CAF Champions League Review: Rivers United FC endure harsh continental lessons after winless CAF campaign

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