Rivers United to pocket over N1 billion for CAF Champions League group stage qualification

Rivers United are set to receive a big financial windfall after securing a coveted spot in the group stage of the CAF Champions League.

The Port Harcourt-based club, known as the "Pride of Rivers," ended a seven-year drought for Nigerian teams in the competition's lucrative group phase.

They achieved this milestone by defeating Mozambique's Black Bulls with a 3-2 aggregate scoreline.

This accomplishment also establishes Rivers United as Nigeria's only remaining representative in continental competitions this season, following the earlier exits of Kwara United, Abia Warriors, and Remo Stars.

According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF), each club that qualifies for the Champions League group stage is guaranteed a prize of $700,000. This amount is equivalent to approximately ₦1.03 billion (one billion, thirty-four million, seven hundred and five thousand naira).

The substantial financial injection is expected to be a major boost for the club, providing crucial funds to bolster their squad and cover operational expenses as they prepare for the challenging group stage fixtures.

Having successfully advanced, Rivers United will now turn its attention to making a strong impression in the next phase of Africa's premier club tournament, carrying the nation's hopes on the continental stage.