Pyramids FC delivered a ruthless second-half masterclass to thrash Nigeria’s Rivers United 3-0 in their CAF Champions League Group stage opener on Saturday 22 November.
The Pride of Rivers, under coach Finidi George, produced a disciplined first-half performance that frustrated the Egyptian giants, with goalkeeper Seun Stephen Manyo pulling off three outstanding saves to ensure the sides went into the break goalless.
However, the Nigerians collapsed spectacularly after the interval, conceding three goals in a devastating 20-minute spell orchestrated by 22-year-old midfielder Ahmed Atef.
Atef broke the deadlock in the 52nd minute with a clinical low finish after a swift counter-attack, doubled the lead five minutes later with a composed strike inside the box, and completed his memorable hat-trick in the 72nd minute, slotting home from close range after Rivers United’s defence was again exposed.
Rivers United managed just one shot on target – a weak 90th-minute effort – in a performance that will raise serious questions about their continental pedigree.
The result marks Pyramids FC’s first-ever victory over Nigerian opposition in CAF competition and their maiden clean sheet against a side from the West African nation.
For Finidi George and his troops, it is a harsh reality check as they now face an uphill battle to progress from the group when they host Morocco’s RS Berkane on matchday two at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo next weekend.
Read also: Heartbreak for Super Eagles as DR Congo Wins Penalty Shootout to Advance to World Cup Playoffs
