Finidi George Vows Rivers United Ready to Challenge Pyramids FC in CAF Champions League Opener

Rivers United technical adviser Finidi George has expressed confidence in his team’s preparation for their group stage debut against defending champions Pyramids FC, insisting the Pride of Rivers will not be overawed by the Egyptian giants.

The Port Harcourt outfit kick off their CAF Champions League campaign with a daunting away fixture at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo on Saturday, November 22, 2025, facing a Pyramids side tipped as overwhelming favorites to claim all three points. George, the former Super Eagles winger turned coach, is undeterred, viewing the clash as an exciting opportunity to make an early statement in Group B.

“We are looking forward to an interesting game against the defending champions,” Finidi said in a pre-match interview. “It is going to be a good game, the atmosphere is good, and we are looking forward to the game.” His words echo the sentiment from club legend Christopher Amoo, who emphasized the need for a positive result to set the tone for the group.

Rivers United, making their fourth appearance in the competition’s group stage, advanced after a 5-1 aggregate triumph over USM Alger in the playoffs, showcasing resilience with three away goals. Pyramids, who lifted the trophy in 2024 after a 1-0 final win over Al Ahly, boast a perfect record in their last five home group games (W5), scoring 12 goals while conceding none. The Egyptians, led by top scorer Fiston Mayele (8 goals this season), are chasing a second straight title.

In the group’s other opener, Morocco’s RS Berkane—2022 runners-up—host Zambia’s Power Dynamos at the Stade Municipal in Berkane. Berkane, with three titles in the last decade, are favorites against the debutants, who stunned Zanaco in qualifiers.

Rivers United will rely on veteran forward Prince Obasi and midfield dynamo Nelson Uwadiaeze to counter Pyramids’ attacking flair, but George knows a draw would be a moral victory. Kick-off: 6pm WAT. Can the Pride roar in Cairo?