Port Harcourt-based Rivers United earlier on Sunday defeated defending champions USM Alger in the first leg of the CAF Confederation quarter-finals at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Augustine Okejepha scored in the 10th minute to hand the hosts the lead. Despite their efforts to score more goals and secure a comfortable lead ahead of the second leg, they were unable to do so.
It was a game the Nigerian side dominated but failed to convert the numerous chances that came their way. The Algerians were without five key players who missed the game through injury.
Despite the narrow victory, Stanley Eguma and his team will be poised to secure a semi-final qualification berth in Algeria.
Rivers United maintain home invincibility
The Rivers team has successfully maintained their unbeaten record at home throughout this season's competition.
They have secured victories in all four games played at home, defeating clubs such as Club Africain, Academica do Lobito, Dreams FC, and most recently, USM Alger.
However, Rivers United have been less impressive on the road, managing only one victory, along with a draw and two defeats, out of a total of four away games.
When is the second leg?
The second leg will be played on April 7, 2024 at the Stade du 5-Juillet-1962 in Algiers. As Nigeria's sole representative in continental club competitions, Rivers United would want to scale this hurdle and better their record in the competition.
Last season, Rivers United were eliminated at this stage of the competition by Tanzanian giants Young Africans who made their way to the final only to lose to USM Alger.
Clinical USM Alger unbeaten at home, Rivers United face uphill battle
USM Alger remain unbeaten at home in this season's CAF Confederation's Cup competition. Across the four home games played, they have secured victories against clubs like Al Hilal Benghazi and SuperSport United, while also drawing against Modern Future and FUS Rabat.
Given Rivers United's struggles on the road, they face a daunting task to progress to the next stage of the competition. They'll need to exceed expectations and deliver an exceptional performance away from home.
