Rivers United Poised For NPFL Title Push, Says Finidi George.
Rivers United head coach Finidi George has declared his team ready to mount a serious challenge for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title in the 2025/26 season. Speaking to the club’s media ahead of their Matchday Two clash against Kwara United in Port Harcourt, the former Super Eagles coach expressed unwavering confidence in his squad’s ability to compete with the league’s best, following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against reigning champions Remo Stars in their season opener on 22 August 2025.
The Pride of Rivers kicked off their campaign with a statement of intent, as Aniekeme Okon scored the season’s first goal just three minutes into the match in Abeokuta, despite Remo Stars equalising soon after. Finidi, who led Enyimba to the NPFL title in 2023, believes his team’s performance against the champions signals their readiness to fight for the crown they last won in 2022. “We are not scared of any team this season,” he told Rivers United’s media. “It’s good that the fixture is coming strong with tough teams because if there are mistakes, we will know how to correct them.”
Last season, Rivers United finished second, seven points behind Remo Stars, securing a CAF Champions League spot with 64 points from 38 matches. Reflecting on that campaign, Finidi acknowledged areas for improvement but remained optimistic. “We know where we slipped last season. I don’t think we will make that mistake this season. We will fight for every point,” he said, emphasising a focus on consistency and resilience.
The club has bolstered its squad with strategic signings, including Malian duo Chaka Coulibaly and Adama Goita, the return of striker Victor Mbaoma, and promising talents like Ani Ozoemena and Isaac Annor. Finidi has also reunited with assistant coach Yemi Olanrewaju, with whom he won the NPFL title at Enyimba, strengthening the technical bench. “The team is getting younger compared to last season. We bring in players because we believe they can get the job done,” Finidi noted, expressing confidence in his revamped squad.
Looking ahead, Finidi is targeting a strong showing in both the NPFL and the CAF Champions League, where Rivers United will compete in the preliminary rounds. To prepare for the continental stage, he plans to recruit four to six experienced players to avoid the inexperience that hindered Enyimba against Wydad Casablanca in 2023. “We won’t just bring in players; we will recruit trusted players with continental experience,” he stated.
The draw against Remo Stars, where Rivers United showed attacking intent despite a late red card to defender Temple Emekayi, has boosted morale. Fans are optimistic about the team’s prospects, particularly with home games like the upcoming Kwara United fixture offering a chance to build momentum. Finidi’s message to his players is clear: “We will fight to the end.” With a blend of youth, experience, and tactical discipline, Rivers United are poised to make a bold bid for NPFL glory under his leadership.