Rivers United are through to the group stages of the CAF Confederations cup after the Pride of Rivers faced off Etoile Filante of Burkina Faso, resulting in a final score of 2-0 in favour of the home team at the Adokiye Amiesimaka stadium in Port Harcourt.
The game had its share of penalty drama, starting in the 19th minute when Endurance Ebedebiri missed a penalty opportunity. Rivers United continued to apply relentless pressure on their opponents throughout the first half, but Etoile Filante’s defense remained disciplined and unyielding. Despite their efforts, both teams entered halftime with a scoreless draw.
The second half brought more penalty drama when Farouq Mohammed of Rivers United saw his penalty saved, leaving fans visibly frustrated.
However, the turning point of the match came when Alex Oyowah scored a goal, sparking wild jubilation among the crowd and giving Rivers United a 1-0 lead.
As the match reached its final moments, 90 minutes played and 10 minutes of added time indicated, Rivers United was awarded a third penalty. This time, Alex Oyowah calmly sent the goalkeeper the wrong way, securing a 2-0 victory for Rivers United.
The game was filled with tension, missed opportunities, and late-game drama, but in the end, Rivers United emerged victorious with a solid 2-0 win over Etoile Filante.
The fans’ emotions ranged from frustration to jubilation as they witnessed a nerve-racking contest in the CAF Confederation Cup second leg of the second preliminary round. Rivers United are Nigeria’s only representative on the continental stage.
Photo Credit: Rivers United