Rivers United fought back from a goal down to secure a 1–1 draw at the Rashidi Yekini main bowl of the George Innih Stadium in Ilorin, extending their lead at the top of the table to three points.
Following a fiercely contested opening 20 minutes, Timothy Zachariah came close to opening the scoring after meeting a cross from Wasiu Falolu. However, the hosts capitalised on a defensive mix-up in the 25th minute, with Azeez Falolu putting Katsina United ahead.
Rivers United responded by pushing the hosts deep into their half, creating chances through Osimaga Duke and Timothy Zachariah, but both efforts failed to produce an equaliser, leaving the visitors trailing by a goal at halftime.
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The second half began with a revitalised Rivers United side after the introductions of Maclyn Biokpo, Babatunde Bello and Rivio Ayewenre. Their dominance eventually paid off when Stephen Manyo rose highest to head home from Okon Aniekeme’s corner kick, restoring parity.
Despite sustained pressure, Rivers United were unable to find a late winner. Nevertheless, the result extended their unbeaten run to 16 matches from 18 games this season (nine wins, seven draws).
What’s Next
After a demanding run of fixtures, Rivers United return home this weekend to face Rangers International at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium. The encounter will be their final Nigeria Premier Football League match of 2025 and the concluding fixture of the first stanza.
