Despite a disappointing 2–0 loss to Abia Warriors on Sunday, Rivers United head coach Finidi George remains unfazed about his side’s chances of clinching a top-two finish in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

The Matchday 33 defeat in Umuahia allowed third-placed Abia Warriors to close the gap on Rivers United to just two points, but the Port Harcourt-based tactician is not hitting the panic button just yet.

💬 “We’re Still in Control” — Finidi Declares

Speaking after the match, Finidi exuded calm and confidence:

“No, no, no! We’re two points ahead of them. They’re playing away, while other teams like us are playing at home in the next game. We’re going to win our game and stretch the gap to five points.”

“I’m not too worried about that. I’m confident we’ll win at home. They (Abia Warriors) won at home, so we definitely are going to win at home.”

That confidence could prove to be exactly what Rivers United needs as the NPFL heads into its final stretch — where every point could define a team’s continental destiny.

⚽ The Race to CAF Champions League Heats Up

The top two spots in the NPFL come with golden tickets to next season’s CAF Champions League. While Remo Stars remain on top with 62 points, the real drama is between Rivers United and Abia Warriors, both battling for the second automatic ticket.

Rivers United, currently with 55 points, have the advantage, but one slip-up could open the door for the in-form Abia Warriors, who are sitting on 53 points.

💭 Opinion: Pressure Is a Privilege — But Finidi Must Deliver

Finidi’s poise is commendable, but the real question is: Can Rivers United bounce back with purpose?

The former Super Eagles winger is no stranger to high-stakes football, but coaching a side into continental competition requires more than just belief — it needs composure, strategy, and ruthless execution.

With home advantage coming up, Rivers United must not only win — they must do so convincingly to reassert dominance and cool the breath of the chasing Warriors.

In a league where margins are razor-thin and ambition runs deep, one match can change the narrative. For Finidi and his boys, it’s time to turn words into winning football.

🔥 Will Rivers United hold their ground or will the Warriors strike again? The NPFL drama is far from over.