Rivers United Grind Out First CAF Champions League Point in Zambia

Rivers United earned their first point of the 2025 CAF Champions League group stage after holding Power Dynamos of Zambia to a goalless draw at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium on Saturday.

It was a much-needed result for Finidi George’s side, who had lost their opening two group games to defending champions Pyramids FC of Egypt and Morocco’s RS Berkane. The draw keeps the Port Harcourt club third in the group, with one point from three matches.

Rivers United were largely on the back foot, especially in the first half, but goalkeeper Osagie Onisodumeya proved decisive, pulling off several key saves to frustrate the Zambian champions and keep his side in the contest.

Despite the defensive discipline, the Nigerian side struggled going forward and failed to create any clear-cut chances in the matchday three encounter, settling for containment rather than ambition.

The two sides will meet again next week Sunday, with Rivers United set to host Power Dynamos in the reverse fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Opinion: A Point That Could Spark a Turnaround

While a goalless draw may not excite fans, this result could be a turning point for Rivers United. After two defeats, avoiding another loss away from home against a determined Power Dynamos side is no small achievement.

The performance underlined the team’s defensive resilience, with Onisodumeya’s display standing out as a reminder that strong goalkeeping can keep continental dreams alive. However, Finidi George will be concerned about the lack of attacking threat, especially at this stage of the competition where wins matter more than caution.

The return leg in Uyo now becomes a must-win. With home support and familiar conditions, Rivers United have an opportunity to turn this single point into real momentum. If they can combine the defensive solidity shown in Zambia with more purpose going forward, their Champions League campaign may yet have life in it.