As the first half of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season draws to a close, one name sits unchallenged at the pinnacle of the mountain: Rivers United.
In a Matchday 19 encounter that felt more like a chess match than a football game, the “Pride of Rivers” secured a pivotal 1–0 victory over perennial rivals Rangers International. The win does more than just add three points to their tally; it sends a clear message to the rest of the league that the title might just be heading back to Port Harcourt.
The Decisive Moment at Adokiye Amiesimaka
The atmosphere at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium was electric, yet the game itself was a cagey affair for the first 45 minutes. Rangers, disciplined and compact, seemed content to frustrate the league leaders. However, the second half brought the breakthrough the home fans craved.
In the 52nd minute, the deadlock was finally broken. A pinpoint delivery from Ubong Friday found the towering Boluwaji Sholumade, who rose highest to plant a header past George Abine. It was a goal born of pure persistence—a hallmark of Finidi George’s side this season.
Rivers United’s victory was made even sweeter by results elsewhere. Their closest title rivals, Nasarawa United, suffered a bruising 3–0 defeat at the hands of Kano Pillars. This combination of results has allowed Rivers United to stretch their lead at the top to a comfortable four-point cushion as the league enters the mid-season break.
The transformation of Rivers United this season can be traced back to the tactical maturity instilled by Finidi George. With 10 wins and only 2 losses in 19 games, the team has found a perfect balance between a rock-solid defense (conceding only 11 goals) and a clinical edge in front of goal.
While the “Pride of Rivers” had to withstand a late surge from Rangers—including a disallowed goal for the Flying Antelopes—their resilience in “digging deep” has become their defining trait.
The NPFL now takes a short breather, with the second stanza set to resume on January 14th, 2026. For Rivers United, the mission is simple: maintain the momentum. With the mid-season transfer window opening on New Year’s Day, fans are eager to see if the leaders will bolster their squad for the final sprint to the finish line.
