Rivers United lose to Pyramids in Egypt
Pyramids scored three times in the second half to consign Rivers United to a 3-0 defeat in their opening CAF Champions League group game on Saturday.
The late-night fixture saw the Finidi George-led side produce a resolute first-half display before crumbling after the break. The hosts broke the deadlock with a 20-minute hat-trick from Ahmed Atef.
Pyramids started quickly, but Rivers United were defensively organized, with goalkeeper Stephen Manyo making key saves to keep the score level at halftime.
A different Rivers United side appeared for the second half, as their previously solid defence was forced into errors.
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Pyramids capitalized to take the lead in the 52nd minute with a neat finish from Atef, who doubled the advantage five minutes later. The 22-year-old midfielder completed his hat-trick in the 72nd minute to seal the victory.
Rivers United registered their only shot on target in the 90th minute of the crushing defeat. The result marks Pyramids FC’s first-ever victory and clean sheet against a Nigerian club.
Rivers United will seek to bounce back when they host Morocco’s RS Berkane on matchday two at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo next weekend.
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