September 18, (THEWILL) – Rivers United of Nigeria held Etoile Filante of Burkina Faso to a 0-0 draw on Sunday while playing away in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast.
Etoile were forced to play outside of their home country as there are no stadiums in Burkina Faso that meet CAF standards. Rivers United’s result has increased their chances of reaching the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup, the African equivalent of the UEFA Europa League.
They are currently one of the best hopes for Nigerian clubs after compatriots Bendel Insurance were held to a draw at home by Renaissance Berkane of Morocco on Saturday. The second legs of the last-32 qualifiers will take place between 29 September and 1 October, with Rivers United having home advantage for the return match.
The Confederation Cup is Nigeria’s only prospect for continental success this year after early exits by Enyimba and Remo Stars in the Champions League. There was further evidence that Tanzanian clubs are becoming more competitive in Africa as Singida Fountain Gate defeated Future of Egypt 1-0 at home. The goal was scored by Kenyan Elvis Rupia in the second half.
It was a disappointing weekend for Zambian clubs. Maestro United lost 2-1 at home to Diables Noirs of Congo despite a late penalty by Andrew Phiri. On Saturday, Power Dynamos could only draw with Simba of Tanzania.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
