Rivers United’s impressive 3-2 victory over Rangers in the Round of 32 of the President Federation Cup has propelled the Port Harcourt-based club into the next stage of the competition, with technical adviser Finidi George praising his team’s resilience and determination. The match, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Monday, was a thrilling encounter that saw Rivers United secure a dramatic win in stoppage time. Finidi highlighted the team’s strong start and ability to hold on under pressure, expressing satisfaction with the result as they advance to face Nasarawa United in the Round of 16.
Rivers United opened the scoring in the fifth minute when Chijioke Mbaoma headed home a precise cross from Ubong Friday, giving the visitors an early advantage. Wisdom Samuel extended the lead before halftime, showcasing brilliant teamwork with Taofeek Otaniyi before calmly slotting the ball into the bottom corner. The second half saw Rangers mount a fierce comeback, with Godwin Obaje converting a penalty in the 59th minute to reduce the deficit. Just two minutes later, Precious Agu equalized, setting the stage for a tense and unpredictable finale.
The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time when substitute Handsome Surveyor capitalized on a critical error by the Rangers goalkeeper to score the winning goal. Surveyor, who has been instrumental in several key matches this season, once again proved his value to the team. Finidi acknowledged the forward’s knack for delivering in crucial moments, stating, “We knew he has that luck that was why he was introduced into the game.” He added that Surveyor’s goal was a testament to the team’s fighting spirit and belief.
Finidi also reflected on the match’s flow, noting that the team started well and maintained control for much of the game. “We started the game well, we are happy with the victory. In the second half, we told them to keep the ball well, after 20 minutes the game slowed down a bit,” he said. He admitted that Rangers’ comeback made the final 20 minutes “a bit scrappy,” but emphasized that the team remained focused and secured the win. “At the end of the day we got the winning goal,” he said, expressing optimism about the team’s progress in the tournament.
With this victory, Rivers United continues its campaign in the President Federation Cup, now set to face another NPFL side, Nasarawa United, in the Round of 16. The result underscores the team’s growing momentum and ability to perform under pressure. As the competition progresses, Rivers United will aim to build on this win and push further toward potential glory in the tournament.
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