Rivers United head coach Finidi George of Nigerian league title ambition despite Bayelsa United defeat

Rivers United head coach Finidi George remains confident despite his side’s 1–0 defeat to Bayelsa United F.C. in their 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday 28 encounter at the Samson Siasia Stadium.

The narrow loss saw Rivers United drop to second place on the league table with 46 points, but the team retains a key advantage, having three games in hand—a factor that could prove decisive in the title race.

The defeat also marked Rivers United’s fourth consecutive loss to Bayelsa United across two seasons, a statistic that could have raised concerns. However, Finidi shrugged off the pressure, emphasizing that the setback would not derail their pursuit of the league crown.

“If losing to Bayelsa United will give us the league title, I’ll accept it,” Finidi said rhetorically after the match, speaking to CompleteSports.

“Let’s lose to Bayelsa United and win the league. I’m not that worried about losing to Bayelsa United twice last season and twice this season. We know the purpose of our campaign this season is to win the league. It’s quite unfortunate that we lost today.”

Rivers United now turn their focus to their remaining fixtures, aiming to capitalize on the three games in hand and reclaim their top spot in the league standings. Finidi’s message is clear: one defeat will not define their season, and the Pride of Rivers remain firmly in contention for the NPFL title.