By Daily Sports Nigeria on July 18, 2025

Rivers United and Ikorodu City will clash in a crucial Group A encounter on Friday (today) at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, as both teams battle for a place in Sunday’s Eko International Cup final.

The CAF Champions League representatives need only a draw to progress to the final, whilst hosts Ikorodu City require an outright victory to advance after managing a 2-2 draw with Shooting Stars in their opener.

Rivers United made a commanding start to the tournament on Wednesday, defeating Shooting Stars 2-0 to top Group A with three points. Goals in each half from Ubong Friday and Maclyn Biokpo were enough to see off the Ibadan-based side.

Ubong’s spectacular free-kick goal in the closing stages of the first half drew particular praise for its quality, reminiscent of deliveries seen in the English Premier League.

Despite the comfortable victory, Technical Adviser Finidi George appeared restless in the VIP box, constantly giving instructions to his assistants and players throughout the encounter.

Media Officer Charles Mayuoku had earlier emphasised the importance of the tournament for Rivers United’s preparations ahead of their continental assignment and the new league season.

“We have our target cut out and the technical crew is not joking with this event. For us, we take this event as a season starter especially because of some new players in our fold,” Mayuoku said.

The result on Wednesday eliminated Shooting Stars from the competition, setting up today’s winner-takes-all clash between Rivers and Ikorodu City.

In Group B, Remo Stars made a bright start with a 2-1 victory over 36 Lions, who have been eliminated after losing both their matches. The encounter between Smart City and Remo Stars will determine the final positions in the group.

Executive Director, Publicity and Strategy for the Local Organising Committee, Onome Obruthe, said the organising team was proud to have four top NPFL teams participating in the tournament.

The pre-season football tournament has entered its crucial stage as teams battle for tickets to play in Sunday’s final at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan.

Source Punch Ng

Posted July 18, 2025

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