Rivers United continued their encouraging preseason form with a convincing 2-0 victory over Abia Warriors in a friendly match played at the Enyimba Stadium in Aba.
The Port Harcourt club, preparing for another Nigeria Premier Football League campaign after securing a CAF Champions League place last season, delivered a disciplined and clinical second-half display to overcome their fellow top-flight opponents.
The encounter served as one of the biggest tests of Rivers United’s preseason schedule, giving head coach Finidi George another opportunity to evaluate his squad against quality NPFL opposition.
The former Super Eagles manager has added several new players during the transfer window and is gradually blending them into his preferred style of play.
Both teams battled evenly during the opening half, creating a competitive contest but failing to break the deadlock before the halftime whistle.
The visitors, however, emerged with greater purpose after the restart and quickly took charge of the game.
Their breakthrough arrived in the 66th minute when Ayuba Francis linked up effectively with Wasiu Falolu, who calmly slotted home to hand Rivers United the lead.
Just two minutes later, Abia Warriors’ problems worsened after an unfortunate own goal doubled Rivers United’s advantage, giving the visitors a comfortable cushion.
With the two-goal lead established, Finidi’s men controlled possession and managed the closing stages well to wrap up another positive outing.
The victory continues an impressive buildup for Rivers United, who enjoyed an outstanding 2025/26 campaign by finishing second in the NPFL to secure another appearance in the CAF Champions League.
Their recent continental exploits, which included reaching the CAF Champions League group stage, have raised expectations ahead of the new season, and early preseason performances suggest the squad is progressing well.
Although preseason fixtures are primarily designed to improve fitness and cohesion, Rivers United’s latest performance offers another indication that the Pride of Rivers are shaping up strongly for the challenges that lie ahead in both domestic and continental competitions.