Rivers United of Port Harcourt have been tipped to qualify from their group in this season’s CAF Champions League and reach the knock-out stages of the money-spinning continental competition.
This verdict was passed by a former Heartland of Owerri, Calabar Rovers and Akwa United of Uyo defender, Bob Usim, who is of a strong view that The Pride of Rivers have what it takes to go far in the elite clubs’ competition.
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Sports247 gathered that Usim’s declaration came ahead of Rivers United’s battle away to defending champions, Pyramids FC of Egypt on Saturday, after which they will face Power Dynamos of Zambia and CAF Confederations Cup holders, SC Berkane in the same pool.
Although the group looks daunting, Usim declared confidently that The Garden City outfit should be able to scale all hurdles, but he quickly chipped in that they must focus only on one game at a time.
“I can see them advancing, but it’s not going to be easy. It has never been easy, but what I believe they should do right now is focus on the team they will play this weekend.
“They should just focus on each team they will meet in the group stage in order to know their weaknesses and strengths before they play them,” Usim advised.
He also urged the crew and management of Rivers United to look inwards and check all factors that can enhance the team’s aspirations in the high-profile competition that has eluded Nigeria since Enyimba of Aba won it back-to-back in 2003 and 2004.
Usim declared, “They should check to see how the team can adapt and strengthen their main squad. They should know how to build on their strong stakes and block all loose spots.
“One thing I know about the Champions League at this stage is that there will be good officiating. It’s not like our local league where they still believe in home advantage.
“Anything can happen in the Champions League. You can do well, as long as you put your act together and keep all hands on deck.”
The former Super Eagles invitee concluded by emphatically repeating his prediction, as he stressed: “Once they approach all their games with a high degree of professionalism, I think they can advance.”
