Rivers United fought back from a goal down to secure a valuable 1-1 draw against FC San Pedro of Côte d’Ivoire in the first leg of their CAF Champions League first preliminary-round tie on Saturday.

The Nigerian champions showed resilience at the Laurent Pokou Stadium in San Pedro, recovering from a second-half setback to return home with a result that leaves the tie finely poised ahead of the decisive return leg.  

After a goalless first half, the hosts broke the deadlock in the 56th minute when Issouf Dosso capitalised on a defensive lapse to put San Pedro ahead.

The setback forced Rivers United to respond, and head coach Finidi George turned to his bench in search of a way back into the contest. His decision paid off.

Substitute Douglas Iyowuna restored parity in the 69th minute, showing composure inside the San Pedro penalty area to finish the opportunity and give the Nigerian side a crucial away goal.  

The equaliser changed the complexion of the contest as Rivers United held firm in the closing stages to secure a draw.

The result represents a positive outcome for the Port Harcourt-based side, particularly after San Pedro had taken the initiative on home soil.

Rivers United had gone into the continental assignment with confidence following a 2-0 victory over Plateau United in their opening NPFL fixture of the 2026/27 season.

Finidi’s men will now have home advantage for the second leg, with the tie level at 1-1 and everything to play for.

The return fixture is scheduled for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, with Rivers United knowing that a victory will send them through to the next qualifying round.  

The Pride of Rivers reached the CAF Champions League group stage last season and will be determined to make another deep run in Africa’s premier club competition.

With the aggregate score locked at 1-1, Rivers United will have the backing of their home supporters as they seek to turn Saturday’s hard-earned draw into qualification.