Rivers United have written a new chapter in Nigerian football history after securing a determined 3–1 victory over Black Bulls of Mozambique to qualify for the group stage of the CAF Champions League. This achievement makes them the first Nigerian side to reach this phase since Lobi Stars in the 2018/2019 season.
With the aggregate score at 1–0 from the first leg in favour of Black Bulls, Rivers United entered the return fixture in Port Harcourt with urgency and belief. The atmosphere at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium was electric as the Pride of Rivers pushed forward from kick-off in search of early redemption.
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Their breakthrough came in the 15th minute when Wasiu Falolu calmly finished a well-worked move to put Rivers United ahead. The goal reignited the home supporters and shifted momentum firmly toward the Nigerian team.
Rivers United maintained their intensity throughout the first half and found their second goal just before the break. In the 42nd minute, Maclyn Biokpo converted from the penalty spot after a foul in the box, giving Rivers United a 2–0 lead and a 2–1 advantage on aggregate.
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Black Bulls responded early in the second half. Just two minutes after the restart, Moctar Diallo capitalised on a defensive lapse to score, levelling the aggregate score at 2–2 and setting up a tense remainder of the match.
Despite the pressure, Rivers United remained composed. Finidi George’s men continued to push forward with determination, and in the 76th minute, Timothy Zachariah delivered the decisive moment of brilliance. His powerful strike from distance sealed a 3–1 result on the night and 3–2 on aggregate.
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With this victory, Rivers United advance to the CAF Champions League group stage, guaranteeing six more fixtures in Africa’s top club competition. They now stand a chance of becoming only the second Nigerian club to lift the trophy after Enyimba’s historic wins in 2003 and 2004.
Full-Time: Rivers United 3–1 Black Bulls
Aggregate: 3–2
Scorers:
- Rivers United: Falolu 15’, Biokpo 42’ (P), Zachariah 76’
- Black Bulls: Diallo 47’
