Finidi George says Rivers United will approach their final Nigeria Premier Football League match against Katsina United with full determination but admits the title race remains in God’s hands after sealing CAF Champions League qualification.
Rivers United confirmed a top-two finish on Matchday 37 following a thrilling 3-2 comeback victory against Wikki Tourists in Bauchi.
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The Port Harcourt club recovered from behind twice before scoring a late winner to stay one point behind league leaders Rangers International ahead of the final round of fixtures.
A home victory against Katsina United could still deliver the NPFL title for Rivers United if Rangers fail to beat Ikorodu City in Lagos.
Speaking after the dramatic win in Bauchi, Finidi praised his players for their character, resilience, and determination under intense pressure.
“It was a difficult match to come back from 1-0 to 2-1. We had to come back and the boys gave their all in the last six minutes to get that third goal,” Finidi said.
“It was not an easy one. I must commend my boys for coming to Bauchi. I think this was their first match here. They had the home support wanting them to win, but at the end of the day, we clinched three points.”
The former Super Eagles winger acknowledged Rivers United still need results elsewhere to favour them but insisted his players must remain focused on winning their final fixture.
“Which makes it, we’re going home to see how we can win our home match. We leave the rest to God,” he added.
“Despite the fact Rangers are ahead of us, we know Ikorodu City are also looking for something to clinch that third place, so it’s going to be a difficult game for them as well.
“But we, on the other hand, have to win our home match.”
Finidi also celebrated Rivers United’s return to the CAF Champions League, describing consecutive qualifications as a significant achievement for the club.
“It’s a good qualification and that has been secured. Getting the CAF Champions League qualification two years in a row is outstanding,” he said.
“Most teams are looking for this position and it’s not forthcoming. We have to commend the players for that mentality.
“Qualifying twice in three years is outstanding.”
Rivers United will now hope to improve Nigeria’s recent continental record after enduring a difficult campaign in this season’s CAF Champions League.
Although the club became the first Nigerian side in seven years to reach the competition’s group stage, Rivers United failed to record a single group-stage victory as Nigerian clubs continued struggling on the continental stage.
