Rivers United suffered a heartbreaking 2–1 defeat to RSB Berkane after conceding two stoppage-time goals in their CAF Champions League group-stage clash at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo on Friday, Bold Sports reports.
Finidi George’s side were cruising to their first win in the competition until Youness El Kaabi struck in the seventh minute of stoppage time to draw Berkane level. Mounir Chouiar completed the dramatic turnaround with a winner in the 99th minute, leaving the Nigerian side stunned.
The Pride of Rivers had gone into the contest hoping to bounce back from their opening-game loss to defending champions Pyramids FC, while Berkane were looking to build on their victory over Power Dynamos. Rivers United started on the front foot and thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half, but their goal was disallowed for offside.
Their persistence eventually paid off in the 38th minute when Friday Ubong’s effort was deflected into the net by Berkane defender Lamine Mamadou Camara, handing the Nigerian side a deserved 1–0 advantage going into the break.
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Chasing the game, Berkane made two substitutions at halftime, introducing Zinedine Machach and Imad Riahi for Amine Azri and Rayane Aabid. The changes helped the Moroccan side gain control of possession in the second half as they pushed for an equaliser. Rivers United, however, remained compact and disciplined, absorbing pressure while trying to hit on the break.
Berkane came close when goalkeeper Osagie’s attempted punch fell to an opponent in a dangerous area, but the shot was miscued. Rivers United also created moments in the final 10 minutes that could have sealed the win, yet they were unable to find the finishing touch.
Just when the hosts appeared set to claim their first points of the campaign, Berkane produced a stunning late revival, scoring two goals in three stoppage time minutes to steal all three points.
The defeat leaves Rivers United winless and without a point after two matches, while Berkane climb to six points, strengthening their position at the top end of the group. The CAF Champions League continues this weekend before pausing for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
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