Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-03-31 03:16:10
Rivers United of Port Harcourt is the only Nigerian club remaining in the CAF competition this season, and they have a tough challenge ahead as they face USM Alger in the quarterfinal of the CAF Confederation Cup. The first leg of the encounter will take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo today.
USM Alger, the defending champions, arrived in Uyo without five key players who are nursing injuries. Despite their absence, they are still a formidable opponent for Rivers United. The Nigerian club has performed well at home, winning all four matches, but their away form has been less impressive with only one victory, a draw, and two defeats.
Rivers United is aiming to become the first Nigerian club to win an African competition since Enyimba of Aba lifted the 2005 CAF Super Cup. To show their support for the team, the Club Owners Association in the NPFL has sent a delegation to Uyo. The Vice Chairman North, Alhaji Sulaiman Umar, emphasized the importance of rallying behind Rivers United to secure a victory against USM Alger.
The Club Owners Association recognizes the significance of Rivers United reaching the quarterfinals and the impact it has on Nigeria maintaining its four continental slots. They are determined to be present at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium to show their support for the team.
On the other hand, USM Alger trained at the Ikot Ekpene Township Stadium before getting a feel of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium ahead of the match. The clash between the two teams is expected to be a thrilling encounter, with kick-off scheduled for 2:00 pm this afternoon.
Both teams will be looking to gain a positive result in the first leg before heading to the second leg of the quarterfinal encounter. Rivers United will need to be at their best to overcome the challenge posed by the defending champions and secure a crucial victory at home. As the only Nigerian representative in the CAF competition, the Pride of Rivers will have the entire nation behind them as they aim to make history in African club football.
