Rivers United head coach Finidi George has expressed satisfaction after his side edged past Rangers International in a thrilling Round of 32 encounter in the 2026 President Federation Cup.
The Port Harcourt club booked their place in the Round of 16 following a dramatic 3-2 victory over the Flying Antelopes at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Monday.
Finidi Praises Rivers United’s Strong Start Against Rangers
Rivers United made a dream start to the contest and took the lead after just five minutes when Chijioke Mbaoma powered home a header from a precise cross delivered by Ubong Friday.
The former NPFL champions continued to dominate proceedings and doubled their advantage before halftime.
Wisdom Samuel combined brilliantly with Taofeek Otaniyi before dribbling past two defenders and calmly finishing into the bottom corner.
Speaking after the game, Finidi was pleased with the way his players approached the encounter, particularly in the opening half.
“We started the game well; we are happy with the victory. The first half was very, very good, and we scored two goals. Second half, I told them to at least keep the ball properly, defend well and see how after 20 minutes the game will slow down,” Finidi told Rivers United’s media.
Rivers United Set Up Nasarawa United Clash After Late Cup Drama
Despite trailing by two goals, Rangers mounted an impressive comeback after the break. Godwin Obaje converted from the penalty spot in the 59th minute to reduce the deficit before Precious Agu levelled matters just two minutes later.
The quick-fire response from the Enugu side turned the contest into an end-to-end battle, with both teams searching for a decisive goal.
Reflecting on Rangers’ resurgence, Finidi acknowledged the difficult moments his side faced late in the game.
“But Rangers came back, and they got two goals. It was a little bit scrappy in the last 10 minutes. At the end of the day we got that victory.
“We are happy; next up is the Round of 16. We will keep pushing to see where we will end up.”
The decisive moment eventually arrived deep into stoppage time when substitute Handsome Surveyor capitalised on a costly error by the Rangers goalkeeper to fire Rivers United into the next round of the competition.
Following the victory, Rivers United have been handed a challenging Round of 16 fixture against Nasarawa United as they continue their quest for President Federation Cup success.
Elsewhere, former champions Bendel Insurance will face El-Kanemi Warriors, while Enyimba take on Ikorodu City in one of the standout ties of the round.
Plateau United will battle FC Basira, and Kada Warriors are set to meet Wikki Tourists.