Rivers United head coach Finidi George says his side will give everything when they take on Egyptian giants Pyramids FC in their CAF Champions League group-stage opener on Saturday.

The Pride of Rivers, Nigeria’s only remaining continental representatives this season, will be making their debut in the Champions League group stages at the 30 June Stadium in Cairo, a significant moment not just for the club, but for Nigerian football. The country’s last appearance at this stage dates back to 2019, making Rivers United’s qualification a refreshing return to elite African competition.

Fresh off a resilient qualifying campaign that saw them edge Mozambique’s Black Bulls, Rivers United now face the defending champions in what promises to be a stern test.

“We’ll do our best,” Finidi said ahead of the encounter. “It’s a football match of 90 minutes; we’ll see how we can get the best result over there. A draw is not a bad one, but if we can go there and pick three points, that will be fantastic.”

Finidi acknowledged the strength of their opponents but stressed the importance of discipline.

“They are the defending champions; it’s not going to be an easy one. We’ve been watching their tapes, and we’ll see how we can compete properly. We don’t want a free-flow kind of football, especially when you’re playing on their ground.”

The former Super Eagles winger also underlined the need for mental readiness and tactical caution.

“We have to get the boys ready mentally. If you feel you will go to Egypt and score four goals, you’ll be getting it wrong. We have to plan to contain them. If our moment comes and we have the opportunity to score, we’ll do that. First is solid defence, keeping the team compact and wait for our moment.”

After the battle in Cairo, the focus will shift to Uyo, where Rivers United will host Moroccan heavyweights RS Berkane next Friday on Matchday Two.