Rivers United have advanced to the group stage of the 2025/2026 CAF Champions League after an impressive 3-1 victory over Mozambique’s Black Bulls in the second leg of their second-round clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
The Nigerian champions overturned a 1-0 first-leg deficit from Maputo, where Moctar Diallo’s strike had given the Black Bulls the edge to win 3-2 on aggregate and book their place among Africa’s elite clubs.
Rivers United began brightly, taking the lead after just 15 minutes through Wasiu Falolu, who capitalized on sustained early pressure. The hosts doubled their advantage three minutes before halftime when Maclyn Biokpo finished clinically to send the home fans into jubilation.
The Mozambican side briefly reignited hope in the 57th minute when Moctar Diallo pulled one back, leveling the tie 2-2 on aggregate. But Timothy Zachariah stepped up as the hero for Rivers United, netting the decisive third goal in the 76th minute to seal a dramatic win.
The victory ensures Rivers United’s return to the CAF Champions League group stage, marking the first time a Nigerian club has reached this phase since Lobi Stars in 2019.
Coach Finidi George men will now await the CAF group stage draw on November 3, where they will discover their next opponents as they continue their quest for continental glory.
