Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-04-10 03:55:44
After being eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup by USM Alger, Rivers United has shifted their focus to the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) in hopes of making a comeback. The team, managed by Stanley Eguma, lost their quarterfinal match against USM Alger 2-1 on aggregate, with a 0-2 defeat in Algiers following a 1-0 victory in the first leg in Uyo. Eguma attributed their exit from the competition to poor marksmanship, stating that the outcome could have been different if they had been more clinical in front of goal.
Eguma emphasized the missed opportunities in the first leg of the tie, expressing regret over not capitalizing on the chances they created. He acknowledged that football can be unpredictable, and converting even one or two of those chances could have changed the course of the game. Despite the disappointment of being knocked out of the CAF Confederation Cup, Eguma stressed that their focus is now on the NPFL and regaining lost ground to qualify for continental competitions in the future.
Currently positioned in 17th place in the NPFL with 31 points, Rivers United have six outstanding matches due to having played fewer games compared to other teams in the league. With leaders Enugu Rangers and Lobi Stars both on 51 points, Rivers United has the opportunity to climb into the top four by securing the maximum 18 points from their remaining fixtures. The NPFL match committee is set to meet with Rivers United to reschedule their postponed games, ensuring a level playing field for all teams involved.
Despite their challenging position in the league, Rivers United will face Plateau United in their upcoming week 30 fixture in Port Harcourt. The team is determined to bounce back from their CAF Confederation Cup exit and showcase their potential in the domestic league. With a renewed focus on their NPFL campaign, Rivers United aims to turn their season around and compete at the highest level in Nigerian football.
