Rivers United Fall 3–0 to Pyramids FC in CAF Champions League Opener

Rivers United began their CAF Champions League group-stage campaign on a disappointing note, falling 3–0 to defending champions Pyramids FC in Cairo on Saturday.

Despite a disciplined and organized first-half performance—where they restricted the home side to minimal chances—Finidi George’s men struggled to maintain their structure after the break.

Egyptian forward Ahmed Atef proved unstoppable, firing a second-half hat-trick with goals in the 52nd, 57th, and 72nd minutes, sealing a commanding win for Pyramids FC and sending a clear statement to the rest of the tournament.

Rivers United must now quickly regroup as they prepare to host RS Berkane of Morocco in Uyo next Friday for matchday two.

Opinion — A Tough Lesson, But Not the End

This defeat will sting, no doubt—especially after such a promising first-half showing. Rivers United looked composed, confident, and competitive early on, proving they truly belong on Africa’s biggest club stage. But football at this level punishes hesitation, and Pyramids FC—experienced, clinical, and ruthless—needed only a few moments of lapse to swing the momentum.

Still, this shouldn’t be seen as a collapse—it should be a wake-up call.

Finidi George now has clarity on what needs tightening: concentration, defensive transitions, and reaction under pressure. The Champions League demands 90 minutes of intensity, not 45.

The good news? Rivers United return home next, to familiar turf and passionate fans. A strong response against RS Berkane can reset the narrative and reignite belief—not just in the squad, but across Nigerian football.

If Rivers United can bottle that first-half resilience and sustain it longer, they’re still very much alive in this competition.

African football rewards fighters—and this journey has only just begun.