Rivers United head coach Finidi George has acknowledged that his side were outplayed after suffering a 4 1 defeat to Egypt’s Pyramids FC in their CAF Champions League clash in Uyo on Sunday.
The Nigerian champions had hoped to revive their campaign against the North African giants following a slow start to the group stage.
While Rivers United showed promise in the opening half and even took the lead, the contest shifted dramatically after the break as Pyramids asserted total control.
The News Chronicle understands that Rivers United matched their visitors in intensity during the first half, pressing high and limiting Pyramids’ attacking rhythm.
However, the Egyptians returned with greater pace and precision in the second half, scoring four unanswered goals and exposing gaps in the hosts’ defensive structure.
Finidi confessed that following the break his side found it challenging to make strong tackles, so enabling Pyramids to easily abuse space. He claimed the second half clearly demonstrated elite continental football, noting that experience and speed made the difference.
Despite the setback, the Rivers United coach remains hopeful. Sitting at the top of the NPFL table, he noted the Champions League appearance had brought attention to areas needing work.
Particularly in light of plans to improve the team and be better ready for the rigors of elite African competition, Finidi feels the lessons learned will guide the club’s strategy next season.
