By Akanimo Kufre
Rivers United dominated the CAF Confederation Cup clash against USM Algiers in Uyo on Sunday afternoon and scored only one goal despite several opportunities to see the back of the visitors’ net.
It was Augustine Okejepha’s goal that set the difference between the Nigerian CAF Confederation Cup representative and the North African defending champions, USM Algiers of Algeria.
Okejepha’s performance in the hot afternoon game was brilliant as well as that of his teammates, Ukeme Williams and substitute, Mark Gibson but they missed plethora of chances to score up to four goals.
Understandably, the Algerian team got fatigued easily due to hot temperature and fasting. However, Cameroonian forward, Leonel Ateba, Abdeoulaye Kanou and Abdelfateh Belkacemi all made efforts to level up but failed.
Coach Stanley Eguma has assured that his boys will improve their abilities to convert chances before the second leg in Algiers by Sunday 7th April 2024 at 10pm.
The temperature in Algiers at night would be a setback too for Rivers United players. The Uyo game was about the easiest Continental game for the Pride of Rivers to seal a convincing victory. Rivers United will need a draw to qualify.