Al Nasr win restored our confidence – Rivers players

Rivers United duo Bolaji Sakin and Malachi Ohawume believe the Pride of Rivers have fully regained their confidence, after thrashing Al Nasr of Libya 5-0 in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup play off in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

Bolaji Sakin, who joined Rivers United ahead of the incoming campaign from Kuwait club, Al-Jahra SC, has been proving his worth, while Malachi Ohawume rounded up scoring in a beautiful fashion.

The Stanley Eguma-led side went into the game with a bruised ego, having crashed out of the CAF Champions League qualification in an unpardonable manner, and they finished with their shoulders high following a commanding display.

Sakin came on for Nwagua Nyima in the 58th minute and made his impact felt in half an hour on the pitch.

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“I give all thanks to God because it was not an easy game. When we conceded 6-0 from Wydad and we bounced back stronger, that shows a strong mentality. I thank the coaches and my teammates as well, because, before the game, we knew Al Nasr were a good side but poor away from home, so we knew we had to take full advantage. Our confidence is now high and we can even beat them at their home ground next week,” Sakin told journalists after the game

Ohawume, who has also been involved in Rivers United’s continental engagement so far this season reflected on the impact the results had on the team’s mentality.

“Initially, when we played Wydad in Morocco, the result really affected us but I thank God we are back to our best again. And for my goal, I think it’s the best I’ve scored in a CAF competition and I thank my teammates and coaches for the support,” he said.

Rivers United coach, Stanley Eguma also acknowledged the involvement of Sakin late in the game and the efforts of other players.

“He is a good player; we know him right from time to time. He joined us this season and he has proven to be a first-team player. His efforts upfront helped us to keep possession. Any day, any time, he is a very good first-team player. I give him kudos.”