Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George faced a wave of criticism from sections of Rivers United supporters following the club’s 4–1 defeat to Pyramids FC in the CAF Champions League on Sunday, a result that confirmed their elimination from the competition.
The reaction from fans was driven less by the scoreline alone and more by the manner of the defeat. Rivers United had shown promise in the first half, even taking the lead, which raised expectations that they could compete with the reigning champions. When the team collapsed after the break and conceded four unanswered goals, frustration quickly turned into anger.
Many supporters felt the second-half performance reflected tactical and psychological shortcomings, particularly the team’s inability to respond once Pyramids increased the tempo. Questions were raised about game management, defensive organisation, and the lack of in-game adjustments as the Egyptian side took complete control.
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There was also a sense that Rivers United, despite leading the NPFL table, failed to translate domestic dominance into continental competitiveness. For fans, this reinforced a recurring concern that success at home has not yet been matched by the intensity, depth, and decisiveness required at the highest level in Africa.
The abuse ranged from Calls of resignation to calling him a quack coach who ruined the chances of the national team’s qualification for the world cup.
Finidi’s post-match honesty, in which he admitted his side were outplayed, especially in the second half, was welcomed by some but did little to calm emotions in the immediate aftermath. For a section of the fanbase, the defeat symbolised a missed opportunity to establish Rivers United as a serious continental force, and that disappointment found expression in criticism directed at the coach.
Ultimately, the reaction highlights the growing expectations around the club. Rivers United are no longer judged solely by domestic results. Fans now demand progress in Africa, and Sunday’s loss served as a stark reminder of the gap that still needs to be bridged.
