Rivers United kicks off CAF Confederation’s Cup quest with goalless draw

Rivers United kicks off CAF Confederation’s Cup quest with goalless draw
Credit: Icon Sport

This Sunday marked the start of Rivers United‘s journey in the CAF Confederation’s Cup, as they embarked on a crucial trip to the capital city of Cote D'Ivoire, Yamoussoukro, to face off against Burkina Faso's Etoile Filante De Ouagadougou.

With high hopes and anticipation, fans of the Nigerian side eagerly tuned in to witness their team's quest for glory in this prestigious continental tournament.

Rivers United vs Etoile Filante De Ouagadougou: A goalless affair

In a closely contested encounter, the CAF Confederation’s Cup 2nd preliminary round 1st leg match between Rivers United and Etoile Filante De Ouagadougou concluded without either team managing to find the back of the net.

Despite both sides pushing for the elusive goal, the final whistle blew with the scoreline reading 0-0.

While it may not have been the result coach Stanley Eguma were hoping for, securing a draw away from home can still be considered a positive outcome in the context of the tournament.

The Officiating Crew

The match was officiated by Guinean referee Naby Laye Toure, who oversaw proceedings with a keen eye for detail. Assisting him on the field were his compatriots, Mamady Tere as Match Assistant Referee 1 and Moussa Traore as Assistant Referee 2.

Abdoulaye Manet, another Guinean, served as the Fourth Official, while Mamby Diaby from Mali took on the role of the Match Commissioner, responsible for overseeing the overall conduct of the match.

Rivers United vs Etoile Filante De Ouagadougou: A date with destiny

Rivers United players warm up
Credit: Icon Sport

With the first leg ending in a deadlock, both Rivers United and Etoile Filante De Ouagadougou now turn their attention to the upcoming second leg.

This crucial match is scheduled to be held at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Rivers State, Nigeria, on 1st October 2023.

The stakes are high as Rivers United aim to secure a place in the coveted CAF Confederation’s Cup group stage.

The home advantage and the support of their passionate fans could prove to be the catalyst for Rivers United to clinch victory and advance further in the tournament.

The CAF Confederation’s Cup is a prestigious competition that provides a platform for clubs from across the African continent to showcase their talent and compete at an international level.

Rivers United, representing Nigeria, carry the hopes and aspirations of their nation as they navigate their way through this challenging tournament.

With the first leg ending in a goalless draw, it's all to play for in the second leg, and Rivers United will be eager to seize this opportunity and make their mark on the continental stage.

Rivers United confirmed lineup 

STARTING XI

GK: AKANDE ABIODUN

Defenders: KAZIE ENYINNAYA, AMPIAH EMMANUEL, TEMPLE EMEKAYI, ENDURANCE EBEDEBIRI

Midfielders: AUGUSTINE OKEJEPHA, ALEX OYOWAH, CHIAMAKA MADU, UKEME WILLIAMS

Forwards: ALBERT KORVAH, NYIMA NWAGUA

SUBSTITUDES

OSAGIE ONISODUMEYA, UCHE JOHN, ASIEGBU SHEDRACK, ADELEKE DAVID, FATAI ABDULLAHI, ODEH PAUL, ONOJA JOSEPH, PAUL ACQUAH, YAO BERNARD

COACH

STANLEY EGUMA

This article was most recently revised and updated 12 months ago

Rababe Koussaimi, a 22-year-old journalist, is deeply passionate about the world of sports. She grew up in a footballing environment, supporting both Bayern Munich and Wydad Athletic Club. She began her English journalism career by hosting a podcast for the first English radio station in Morocco. Currently, the Moroccan journalist channels her enthusiasm into writing and conducting extensive research, creating insightful and engaging content for GoalBall Live readers.