CAF Appoints Ivorian Referee Kouassi Biro for Rivers United vs Black Bulls Clash in Uyo
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that Ivorian referee Kouassi Frederic Francois Biro will officiate the CAF Champions League second preliminary round, second leg encounter between Rivers United FC and Black Bulls of Mozambique.
The crucial tie is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 25, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with kickoff at 4 p.m. Nigerian time.
Biro will be joined by his fellow countrymen Prosper Adiouman and Eba Médard Wenceslas Ettien as assistant referees, while Patrick Tanguy Jean Philippe Vlei will act as the fourth official. The match commissioner duties will be handled by Munkaila Nassam Adam from Ghana.
Rivers United, nicknamed The Pride of Rivers, have it all to play for after suffering a 1–0 defeat in the first leg in Mozambique. Saturday’s home clash in Uyo presents an opportunity for them to overturn the deficit and keep their Champions League dream alive.
💭 Opinion: Rivers United Must Rise to the Moment — This Is More Than Just a Game
For Rivers United, this isn’t just another continental fixture — it’s a defining moment. After falling short in the first leg, the team now has home advantage, the backing of their passionate fans, and the chance to prove they belong among Africa’s elite.
The appointment of a neutral and reputable referee team from Côte d’Ivoire ensures a fair contest, leaving no room for excuses. What matters now is focus, intensity, and belief.
Coach Stanley Eguma’s men will need to bring their A-game — not just in attack but in discipline and composure. The early goal in Mozambique should serve as a wake-up call that every chance counts at this level.
If Rivers United can channel the same energy that saw them dominate domestically, Uyo could erupt in celebration on Saturday evening.
This match isn’t just about qualification — it’s about pride, resilience, and showing that Nigerian football still has a powerful voice in African club competitions. 💪🇳🇬
