By Olukayode Olumuyiwa.
Rivers United’s hopes of progressing in the 2025/26 TotalEnergies CAF Champions League were dashed on Sunday as they suffered a humiliating 4-1 defeat to defending champions Pyramids FC at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. This loss marked the Nigerian side’s third straight home defeat in the group stage, sealing their elimination with one match remaining.
The Port Harcourt-based club, currently leading the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), entered Matchday 5 of Group A with just one point from four games, clinging to a mathematical chance of advancement. However, Pyramids, the Egyptian powerhouse and reigning title holders, overturned an early deficit with a ruthless second-half display to secure top spot in the group and a quarter-final berth.
Rivers United started brightly, taking a surprise lead in the 33rd minute through defender Stephen Manyo, who capitalized on a well-worked move involving striker Osimaga Duke to slot home from close range. The home fans erupted, sensing a potential upset against the formidable visitors. At halftime, the score stood at 1-0, offering a glimmer of hope for coach Finidi George’s men.
But the second half belonged entirely to Pyramids. Mostafa Fathy leveled the score in the 52nd minute with a clinical finish, shifting the momentum. Marwan Hamdy then converted a penalty in the 77th minute to put the Egyptians ahead, before late strikes from Odeh Al-Fakhouri in the 88th and Nasser Maher in stoppage time completed the rout. The 4-1 final scoreline reflected Pyramids’ dominance, as they extended their impressive run in the competition.
This defeat leaves Rivers United rooted to the bottom of Group A with only one point—a goalless draw away to Power Dynamos on January 24. Their home form has been particularly woeful, with losses in all three matches at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium: 1-2 to RS Berkane on November 28, 0-1 to Power Dynamos on February 1, and now this thrashing by Pyramids. The decision to play home games in Uyo, rather than their traditional Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt, may have contributed to the lack of fortress-like atmosphere, though logistical issues have forced the relocation.
For Pyramids, the victory not only confirms their quarter-final spot but also cements their status as group leaders with 13 points from five matches, boasting an unbeaten record and a goal difference of +10. The Cairo-based club, under their astute management, continues to build on last season’s triumph, showcasing why they are favorites to retain the title.
Rivers United now turn their attention to their final group game away to RS Berkane on February 14, though it will be a dead rubber for them. Domestically, they remain strong contenders in the NPFL, but this continental campaign will be remembered as a missed opportunity. Coach Finidi George, a former Nigerian international, faces questions about his team’s defensive frailties, having conceded 10 goals in five group games while scoring just twice.
As the CAF Champions League progresses, Pyramids’ clinical performance serves as a reminder of the gap between Africa’s elite and emerging challengers. For Rivers United, it’s back to the drawing board, with lessons learned from a group stage exit that exposed their vulnerabilities on the biggest stage.
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