Head coach of Rivers United, Yemi Olanrewaju, has praised the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for its decision to award $100,000 to every team participating in its continental club competitions, describing the move as “a thoughtful and timely gesture.”
CAF President Patrice Motsepe announced the new policy earlier this week, stating that all clubs featuring in the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup will receive the financial support to help offset travel and logistics costs.
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While many club managers have hailed the initiative as a game-changer, Olanrewaju maintains that his focus remains firmly on Rivers United’s on-field performance.
“It’s a good development from CAF, and I must commend them,” Olanrewaju said in Port Harcourt. “It will definitely ease the financial pressure that most clubs face when competing across the continent. But for me, my priority is not the money — it’s getting results.”
The young tactician, who has guided Rivers United through a mixed domestic campaign, explained that while financial assistance is important, it does not substitute for hard work, tactical preparation, and player discipline.
“We know what’s at stake,” he continued. “We’ve set our targets for the season, and every training session is about improving and meeting those targets. Money helps logistics, but it doesn’t win matches — performance does.”
Olanrewaju also used the opportunity to encourage his players to remain focused and not get carried away by the financial buzz surrounding CAF’s announcement.
“We have to keep our heads down,” he said. “Our supporters want results, not excuses. Every match is a chance to make them proud.”
Rivers United are currently fine-tuning their squad ahead of their next CAF Confederation Cup fixture, as they aim to go one step further than last season’s quarterfinal exit.
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