Rivers United suffered a 1-0 defeat to Black Bulls FC of Mozambique in the first leg of their CAF Champions League second preliminary round tie. Moctar Diallo’s strike separated the sides, whipping the ball past Osagie Onisodumeya from close range after a counter-attack in the 50th minute.
The Pride of Rivers team had a positive start in the first half, with Maclyn Biokpo and Ubong Friday coming close to scoring. However, both teams failed to break the deadlock before halftime.
In the second half, Coach Finidi George threw in Timothy Zachariah, Wasiu Falolu, Seyi Oguntayo, and Okon Aniekeme from the bench. Unfortunately, an injury forced Okechukwu Ogbu’s replacement by Temple Emekayi, but it was too little, too late.
Team News
Rivers United fielded a strong side for the first leg, with Okon Aniekeme starting in place of Wisdom Samuel, and there were just three more changes from the side that beat FC Les Aigles du Congo 1-0 the last round as Osagie Onisodumeya continued in goal.
For Black Bulls FC, Delta state-born Rume Akporoh started in midfield and playing against a club from Nigeria was very impressive.
What’s Next?
Rivers United now have a week off before the return leg against Black Bulls FC at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
Charles Mayuku
Media Officer, Rivers United FC
18th October, 2025
