In a crucial first-leg encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Nigeria, Rivers United claimed a vital 1-0 victory over USM Alger of Algeria in their TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final clash.
The hero of the match emerged in the form of Augustine Okejepha, who found the back of the net in the 10th minute with a clinical strike from the edge of the box. Abubakar Adamu’s well-executed assist from a corner kick set up Okejepha’s decisive goal, putting Rivers United ahead early in the game.
Throughout the match, Rivers United’s physical dominance proved to be a significant factor, with USM Alger struggling to match their intensity. Despite their efforts, the Algerian side found it challenging to contain their Nigerian opponents, who appeared determined to add to their lead.
However, a brief respite came for USM Alger when rain arrived after 70 minutes, allowing them to regroup and limit the damage to a single-goal deficit by the final whistle.
As attention turns to the second leg in Algiers on April 7, USM Alger face an uphill battle as they aim to overturn the deficit and secure passage to the semi-finals. With home advantage, they will be determined to mount a strong comeback, although Rivers United are expected to put up a strong challenge.
The stakes are high for USM Alger, as qualification to the next round would offer them the chance to continue their title defense and pursue continental glory. The winner of this tie will advance to face the victor of the double confrontation between Abu Salim and RS Berkane in the semi-final stage.
