Defending champions, Pyramids FC produced a dominant second-half display to crush Rivers United 3-0 in their CAF Champions League group-stage encounter on Saturday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Egyptian striker Ahmed Atef El Sayed scored a superb hat-trick, propelling the hosts to a convincing victory.
After a goalless first-half, the Egyptian side returned with renewed energy and incisiveness, with Atef capitalizing on a defensive lapse to score in the 52nd minute.
The Nigerian side struggled to regain their rhythm as Pyramids seized control, with Atef scoring two more goals - a header and a calm right-footed finish - to complete his hat-trick.
Pyramids dominated possession and tempo, denying Rivers United any meaningful route back into the game.
The defeat is a setback for Rivers United, who face added pressure to respond in their remaining group fixtures.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun