Rivers United Technical Manager Finidi George hailed his team’s determination after they edged Enugu Rangers 3-2 in a dramatic President Federation Cup Round of 32 clash at Uyo Township Stadium to earn a place in the last 16.
Speaking after the match, the former Super Eagles coach said he was pleased with the overall showing, pointing specifically to a strong first-half performance that set the tone for the knockout progression.
“We started the game well. We are happy with the victory,” Finidi said. “The first half was very good for us and we scored two goals.”
Rivers United appeared to be managing the contest comfortably once they built a lead, yet Rangers responded with intensity and threatened a turnaround as the game moved toward its closing stages.
Finidi explained that he had urged his players to maintain their discipline after the interval, while also acknowledging that Enugu Rangers’ comeback attempt made the tie far more demanding than initially expected.
“I told them thereafter to keep the balls properly and defend very well. Rangers came back and got two goals. From there, it became a little bit scrappy, especially in the last 10 minutes,” he added.
The match’s turning point arrived when Handsome Surveyor found the back of the net, with his strike ultimately proving decisive in sealing the 3-2 outcome. Finidi also singled out the forward for special praise, describing him as a player who reliably impacts games at key moments.
Rivers United’s next assignment in the competition will be a Round of 16 meeting with Nigeria Premier Football League club Nasarawa United.
