Nigerian side Rivers United secured a crucial goalless draw against Les Aigles du Congo in the first leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary round encounter, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The match, played at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa, DR Congo, saw both teams struggle to create clear-cut chances.
Rivers United's goalkeeper, Osagie Onisidumeya, marked his birthday by keeping a clean sheet, while Temple Emekayi and Stephen Manyo marshaled the defense to block every effort from the Congolese side.
Despite the hosts' pressure, Rivers United's disciplined performance earned them a valuable point.
The return leg is scheduled for next weekend at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, where Rivers United will look to overcome Les Aigles du Congo and progress to the next round.
A win would set up a second-round meeting with either AC Léopards of Congo or Mozambique’s Black Bulls.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun