CAF Champions League: Finidi Confident as Rivers United Target Progress Against Les Aigles

Rivers United head coach, Finidi George, has expressed confidence ahead of his team’s crucial CAF Champions League preliminary round second-leg clash against Les Aigles of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Pride of Rivers held the Congolese side to a goalless draw in last weekend’s first leg and will now aim to finish the job at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Sunday.

Speaking to reporters, Finidi assured that his players are fully focused and ready to deliver.

“We are fully prepared. We know their strengths and weaknesses and we’ll try to capitalise on them. There’s no pressure whatsoever. We know we must score to go through, and we’ll defend properly,” he said.

Victory on Sunday would see Rivers United join Nigeria’s other representative, Remo Stars, in the next round. The Ikenne-based club advanced after a convincing 5-0 aggregate win over US Zilimadjou of Comoros.

Opinion:
This is more than just a football match for Rivers United—it’s a test of character, resilience, and ambition. A goalless draw away from home is a solid foundation, but in Uyo, the onus will be on Finidi’s men to find the goals that matter.

The encouraging part is the coach’s composure. By downplaying pressure and focusing on strategy, Finidi is passing calm confidence to his players. That mental approach could be decisive.

For Nigerian football, success in continental competitions is not just about prestige—it’s about respect. With Remo Stars already showing dominance, Rivers United have the chance to underline Nigeria’s strength in African club football. A win here will not only be celebrated in Port Harcourt but across the country.

In truth, Sunday’s match is more than a qualifier—it’s a chance for Rivers United to announce themselves as genuine contenders on the continental stage.