Rivers United have returned from Côte d’Ivoire with a valuable 1–1 draw against FC San Pedro in the first leg of their CAF Champions League first preliminary-round tie.
The result gives the Pride of Rivers a strong platform ahead of the return fixture, with the Nigerian side now needing a victory at home to secure their place in the next qualifying round.
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The draw is particularly encouraging for Rivers United after head coach Finidi George had stressed before the game that avoiding defeat in Abidjan would represent a positive outcome. He specifically identified a 1–1 draw as an acceptable result that would leave his side in a good position for the return leg.
Rivers United went into the continental assignment with confidence after opening their 2026/27 NPFL campaign with a 2–0 victory over Plateau United, while Finidi also highlighted the physical qualities of San Pedro and the youthful character of his own revamped squad.
Now, the equation is straightforward.
The two sides are level on aggregate, and Rivers United will have the advantage of playing the decisive second leg on Nigerian soil. The return fixture is currently listed for September 13, giving the Port Harcourt club the opportunity to complete the job in front of their supporters.
For a Rivers United side that reached the CAF Champions League group stage last season, the objective is clear: turn the away draw into qualification and keep Nigeria’s flag flying in Africa’s premier club competition.
A goal in Abidjan. A valuable draw secured.
Now, the Pride of Rivers must finish the job at home.
