Stephen Manyo’s stunning strike against Pyramids FC may have come on a difficult night for Rivers United, but it has since taken on a life of its own across the country.
The goal was named CAF Champions League Matchday 5 Goal of the Day, earning the Rivers United defender widespread recognition after it went viral online.
Stephen Manyo’s CAF Goal of the Day Goes Viral
CAF highlighted the effort in a post that read:
“Stephen Manyo’s strike gets our #TotalEnergiesCAFCL matchday 5 #GoalOfTheDay! 🚀” — a moment that shows the quality of his finish on Africa’s biggest club stage.
Manyo opened the scoring in the 33rd minute of Rivers United’s penultimate group game in Uyo, putting Finidi George’s side ahead against the defending champions.
Despite creating more scoring chances, Rivers United were unable to extend their lead, and Pyramids took control after the interval, scoring four times to seal a 4-1 win.
Reflecting on the individual recognition, Manyo expressed gratitude and disbelief at the reaction his goal has generated.
“I feel honoured and grateful for the recognition, & each time I look at the strike, I am like, ‘Wow, it is mind-blowing,’” he said.
The goal was Manyo’s second in the CAF Champions League this campaign, following his earlier strike against Les Aigles of Congo in the second leg of the first qualifying round.
He believes the competition has played a key role in his development as a player.
“This competition forced me to recognise my strength and weakness. I gained a deeper understanding of my capabilities, which significantly increased my self-confidence,” Manyo explained.
While the goal has drawn praise, the defender was also clear-eyed about the team’s performance against Egyptians.
“We needed to have dictated the pace of the game, keep the pressure in their half & make them kick the long balls which they don’t like to do,” he said when reflecting on how the match slipped away after halftime.
Growth, Confidence, and a CAF Champions League Milestone
Despite the viral attention, Manyo insists it has not added pressure ahead of Rivers United’s final group game.
“I never expected it to go viral or get the kind of reactions I have seen so far. Nah, it doesn’t place any extra responsibility, but it will be nice if I tap the final game with another goal,” he noted.
The upcoming fixture against RS Berkane will also mark a personal milestone for the centre-back, as he prepares to make his 10th CAF Champions League appearance.
For Manyo, the moment carries deeper meaning beyond the numbers.
“It’s a testament to my personal resilience, hard work, and growth. I just want the team to play for pride and redeem our image,” he said.