Rivers United technical adviser Finidi George has challenged his players to maintain their high-scoring momentum as they transition from their successful state campaign back to the domestic league. The “Pride of Rivers” enter the new week on a high note after a commanding 3-0 victory over Willbros FC in the state’s Federation Cup final this past Sunday. However, the focus has immediately shifted to their upcoming Matchday 36 fixture, where they are set to host Abia Warriors at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt next weekend.
Despite the recent silverware and the confidence boost from their three-goal display, Finidi remains cautious about the challenge posed by the Umuahia-based side. The former international winger emphasized that the league environment presents a different set of hurdles and requires a heightened level of commitment to secure maximum points at home.
Speaking to the club’s media department, Finidi highlighted the tactical importance of the recent cup win as a springboard for their league ambitions:
“It’s good to have a victory ahead of the important clash against Abia Warriors next weekend,” he remarked. “We scored three goals in the federation Cup and we hope we can replicate that in the match against Abia Warriors. It’s not going to be an easy match we have to work hard.”
As the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season enters its final stages, every point becomes vital for Rivers United’s positioning in the standings. Finidi’s directive is clear: the team must leverage their clinical finishing from the cup final to overcome a resilient Abia Warriors side. With the Port Harcourt fans expected to turn out in large numbers, the pressure is on the home side to translate their knockout-stage efficiency into a decisive league performance.
