Rivers United FC were held to a goalless draw by Aigles du Congo in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round fixture played on Saturday.
The Pride of Rivers travelled to Congo with high expectations and managed to secure an important away result, keeping their hopes alive for qualification to the next round.
Despite creating several opportunities, the Nigerian side could not break down a resilient Aigles du Congo defence.
The match opened with both sides showing caution, knowing the importance of the tie. Rivers United pressed forward through their attacking duo but found the Congolese goalkeeper in fine form.
Aigles du Congo also came close late in the first half, but the Nigerian defence stood strong, ensuring parity at the break.
In the second half, Rivers United pushed harder for an away goal.
However, their efforts were met with determined defending from the hosts, who were cheered on by their home supporters.
Both sides ultimately settled for a share of the spoils after ninety minutes of hard-fought football.
The result leaves the tie delicately balanced ahead of the second leg in Uyo next weekend.
Rivers United will now aim to make home advantage count when they welcome Aigles du Congo for the return fixture next weekend.
A win will seal progression into the next stage of the competition, while a score draw will eliminate Rivers United as the away goal rule still hold in CAF club Cup competitions.
Rivers United, who reached the quarter-finals of the CAF Confederation Cup in 2023, are once again seeking to make a deep run in this year’s edition.
With the first leg ending 0-0, qualification will now depend on their ability to capitalize on chances in front of their home fans.