Rivers United captain Manyo calls for total focus against San Pedro

Rivers United captain Stephen Manyo says his side must treat Sunday’s CAF Champions League second-leg meeting with San Pedro as a defining opportunity.

Finidi George’s team will welcome the Cote d’Ivoire club to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo for the first preliminary round tie, which is level at 1-1 after last weekend’s opening match.

Manyo believes the occasion is particularly important for Rivers United’s younger players as they seek to establish themselves in continental football.

“I had to talk to the players. This is a big moment, a big opportunity for us all, because we have younger players who want to grow and play on bigger stages, not only in Africa but also in top football in Europe. So, I’ve tried to talk to them,” Manyo said ahead of the match.

He told his team-mates that the CAF Champions League offered them a platform to demonstrate their ability and urged them to take responsibility for their performances.

“If you really want to play football on the biggest stage, this is the biggest platform you have in Africa. So, you have to step up as a person. You don’t really need me to push you that much for you to play,” he added.

Manyo demands concentration

The Rivers United captain also warned the squad that they could not afford to allow outside issues to affect their preparation for the decisive encounter.

He reminded the younger members of the team that their careers, families and ambitions should provide the motivation to produce their best football.

“You have to play for yourself first. Play for your family, because you have family at home looking up to you. So, you have to push yourself as a person,” he said.

“Whatever distractions you are having, you have to keep them aside and focus, because this is your career. If you don’t succeed, there are many people waiting for you to laugh at you. So, this is the biggest moment for you.”

Manyo said he was convinced that the players had the ability to progress, but stressed that talent would only matter if it was matched by determination.

“You have to push yourself as hard as you can to see yourself at the top level, because I believe they can do it. They have the qualities; it’s just the willingness to do it. If they are willing to do it, I believe they will achieve great things,” he said.

He added that he had been working closely with the younger players to help them deal with the demands of the occasion.

“So, I’m trying as much as possible to work with them one-on-one, side-by-side. But you have this in you. You don’t have to let yourself down.

“You don’t have to let the team down. So, you have to push yourself, because this is your career and you must make it.”