Finidi George, Rivers United Technical Manager has expressed delight following the Pride of Rivers qualification for the 2026/2027 CAF Champions League even with a game to climax the 2025/2026 NPFL season, Completesports.com reports.
The Port Harcourt club defeated their hosts 3-2 in a thrilling Nigeria Premier Football League League, NPFL, matchday 37 encounter at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi on Sunday.
The win placed Rivers United in a strong position to clinch the title heading into their final game of the season against Katsina United this weekend.
Finidi’s side sit in second position, one point Rangers, who defeated Bendel Insurance 2-1 in Enugu on Sunday.
Rangers will be away to Ikorodu City on the final day of the campaign.
Tough Encounter In Bauchi
Jonathan Mairiga opened the scoring for Wikki Tourists in the 21st minute, before Rivers United equalised in the 34th minute through Handsome Surveyor.
Read Also:NPFL: Rangers Maintain Top Spot, Rivers United Win Away
Wikki Tourists restored their lead moments after the restart, with Imamu Bala scoring in the 47th minute.
Rivers United kept up the pressure, and their efforts were rewarded in the 59th minute when Chijioke Mbaoma calmly slotted home the equaliser.
Taofeek Otaniyi scored the winning goal for the visitors five minutes from time.
Finidi Hails Players
Reflecting on his side’s performance Finidi admitted it was a difficult game, saying his boys deserves kudos for their fighting spirit.
“It was a difficult match. To come back twice, – from 0-1, then 1-2 and later win 3-2 is no mean feat. The boys gave their all in the last five-six minutes to get that third goal. It wasn’t an easy game and I’ve to commend my boys coming to Bauchi, their first match here (in Bauchi) this season to get a win,” Finidi told reporters during a post match press conference after the match.
“They (Wikki Tourists) had home support, wanting them to win but at the end of the day we clinched the three points. We’ll be going back home to see how we can win our home (last) match and then we leave the rest to God irrespective of whatever result that happens in other centers we wouldn’t bother that much despite the fact that Rangers are ahead of us.
“We know Ikorodu City also is looking for something, — to clinch the third place. So it gonna be a difficult game for them as well but we, on the other hand, have to win our own match and then leave the rest to God”.
On Champions League Qualification
Finidi also expressed satisfaction with his team’s qualification for the CAF Champions League for the second consecutive season.
“It’s a good qualification that has been secured. Now, we’ve to see how we can win the (NPFL) league title”, added Finidi.
“Getting a CAF Champions League qualification two years in a row is outstanding, you know. That’s a good job. Most teams are looking for this position but it hasn’t been forthcoming. So, we’ve to commend the players for their mentality in qualifying for the CAF Champions League back-to-back. Its indeed very remarkably outstanding.”
