Rivers United delivered a commanding display in Uyo to overturn a first-leg defeat and book their place in the CAF Champions League group stage, beating Mozambique’s Black Bulls 3–1 on Saturday to advance 3–2 on aggregate.
The result ended Nigeria’s six-year wait for representation in the competition’s group phase, with the Pride of Rivers becoming the first NPFL club to reach this stage since Lobi Stars in 2018/19.
Having lost 1–0 in Maputo, Rivers United started the return leg with purpose and intensity. Their pressure paid off in the 15th minute when Wasiu Falolu reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box, slotting home to level the tie.
The hosts stayed on the front foot, and their persistence paid off again shortly before the break. Falolu was brought down near the area, and Maclyn Biokpo stepped up to convert the resulting penalty, giving Rivers United a 2–0 halftime lead and control of the contest.
Black Bulls briefly threatened a comeback early in the second half as Moctar Diallo pulled one back to make it 2–1, but Rivers United responded with composure and renewed drive. Coach Finidi George introduced Rivio Ayemwenre and Samson Obi to inject energy, and the hosts soon regained momentum.
The decisive blow came in the 75th minute when Timothy Zachariah, who had been outstanding all evening, fired a stunning strike from distance into the top corner to restore Rivers’ two-goal cushion and complete the turnaround.
From there, the Nigerian club side saw out the game with composure and discipline, defending firmly to deny the visitors any late lifeline.
When the final whistle sounded, the Uyo crowd erupted in celebration as Rivers United sealed a 3–1 victory and 3–2 aggregate win.
Finidi’s men will now await the group stage draw on November 3 in Johannesburg, with hopes high that their spirited comeback will serve as a platform for a memorable continental campaign.
