Rivers United captain Temple Emekayi has expressed confidence that the Port Harcourt side will deliver a strong performance in their CAF Champions League outing, against Power Dynamos, on Sunday insisting that home advantage and improved pitch conditions will play a key role.
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Speaking ahead of the match, Emekayi noted that the playing surface in their previous encounter was bumpy and dry, a condition he believes favoured the opposition and disrupted Rivers United’s passing game.
“We noticed that the field was bumpy and dry. Maybe they are used to playing on that kind of terrain, or it was part of their strategy,” Emekayi said.
“They know our capacity and understand that we can pass the ball very well.”
The skipper, however, is optimistic that conditions will be different in Port Harcourt, with steps already planned to ensure a better surface.
“Tomorrow, the field will be wet, and even if there is no rainfall, we will make sure it is watered so that the circulation of the ball will be quicker,” he added.
Emekayi stressed that while confidence from the coaching crew is important, playing at home brings a different mindset and responsibility for the players.
“Definitely, the coach has to be confident in his team’s ability, but we are playing at home and the approach will be different. If the boys carry out what we discuss, I think we are going to have a good day tomorrow,” he said.
The Rivers United captain also called on the fans to turn out in large numbers to support the team, assuring them of a committed display.
“We want the fans to be behind us. They should come out in full support like they have always done,” Emekayi urged.
“We’re not going to let them down. Tomorrow, we will come out and bring our A game.”
Rivers United will be hoping to translate that confidence into a vital result as they continue their quest for progress in the CAF Champions League.
The first leg in Ndola ended goalless, both teams winning their first points of the campaign.
They will now need a win to keep their hope alive in group A where Pyramids FC and RS Berkane were dictating the pace with 7 points after 3 matches .
