Former Nigeria’s Super Eagles winger Finidi George has expressed delight following Rivers United’s qualification for the 2026/2027 CAF Champions League even with a game to climax the 2025/2026 NPFL season.
The Port Harcourt club defeated their hosts 3-2 in a thrilling Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, matchday 37 encounter at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi, on Sunday.
The win placed Rivers United in a strong position to clinch the title heading into their final game of the season against Katsina United this weekend.
Finidi’s side sits in second position, one point behind Rangers, who defeated Bendel Insurance 2-1 in Enugu on Sunday.
Rangers will be away in Ikorodu City on the final day of the campaign.
Jonathan Mairiga opened the scoring for Wikki Tourists in the 21st minute before Rivers United equalised in the 34th minute through Handsome Surveyor.
Wikki Tourists restored their lead moments after the restart, with Imamu Bala scoring in the 47th minute.
Rivers United kept up the pressure, and their efforts were rewarded in the 59th minute when Chijioke Mbaoma calmly slotted home the equaliser.
Taofeek Otaniyi scored the winning goal for the visitors five minutes from time.
Reflecting on his side’s performance, Finidi, who is the technical manager of the team, admitted it was a difficult game, saying his boys deserve kudos for their fighting spirit.
“It was a difficult match. To come back twice, from 0-1, then 1-2, and later win 3-2 is no mean feat. The boys gave their all in the last five-six minutes to get that third goal.
“It wasn’t an easy game, and I have to commend my boys for coming to Bauchi, their first match here (in Bauchi) this season, to get a win,” Finidi told reporters during a post-match press conference after the match.
“They (Wikki Tourists) had home support, wanting them to win, but at the end of the day, we clinched the three points. We’ll be going back home to see how we can win our home (last) match, and then we leave the rest to God.
“Irrespective of whatever result that happens in other centers, we wouldn’t bother that much despite the fact that Rangers are ahead of us.
“We know Ikorodu City also is looking for something to clinch the third place. So it’s going to be a difficult game for them as well, but we, on the other hand, have to win our own match and then leave the rest to God.”
Finidi also expressed satisfaction with his team’s qualification for the CAF Champions League for the second consecutive season.
“It’s a positive qualification that has been secured. Now, we’ve to see how we can win the NPFL league title,” added Finidi.
“Getting a CAF Champions League qualification two years in a row is outstanding, you know. That’s a good job. Most teams are looking for this position, but it hasn’t been forthcoming.
“So, we have to commend the players for their mentality in qualifying for the CAF Champions League back-to-back. It’s indeed very remarkably outstanding.”
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
