Rivers United Football Club gets back to Governor Nyesom Wike pre-season cup action today, as they take on Akwa United Football Club of Uyo at the Sharks Stadium Port Harcourt this evening, from 4.00pm
The “Pride of Rivers” will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways after a 0-1 defeat to Lobi Stars in their opening fixture on Friday.
Victory against Akwa United could move Rivers United into third place if other results go their way, but that’s not going to be an easy task against a dangerous Akwa United side who have started the tournament well.
The Uyo Landlords sit top of Group A with four points and a goal difference of plus two having won one and drawn one of their two games so far – including a sensational 3-1 win over Cynosure football club of Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
Rivers United have no fresh injury worries to contend with, but forward Malachi Ohawume will have to wait and pass a late fitness test to know if he will be available for the game. Goalkeeper Theophilus Afelokia remains out as he’s still working his way back from injury, while Konan Koffin is available for selection.
Coach Stanley Eguma may decide to rotate or stick to his squad with the likes of Stephen Gopey, Bashir Sherrif, Fortune Omoniwari and Cletus Emoton set to unlock the goals for Rivers United.
Kunle Odunlani and Kingsley Patrick were unused substitutes on Friday night but Eguma may opt to go with the partnership of captain Festus Austin and Ifeanyi Anamena in defence after their solid performance against Lobi Stars last week while Nelson Esor may also get a start in midfield.
Akwa United’s defence strongman Samson Gbadebo will face-off against his former side but Ubong Friday and Ndifreke Effiong remain the dangermen to look out for in the orange boys.
After today’s game with Akwa United, Rivers United will play Ottasolo FC by 2.00 pm on Tuesday, Cynosure FC on Wednesday, also by 2.00pm, in games that would determine their progression in the competition.
