Rivers United have offered warm praise to their playing squad after finishing second in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, falling just short of the title on the final day of the campaign.

On that decisive Sunday, Rivers United defeated Katsina United 3-0 at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, yet it proved insufficient. Rangers clinched the championship with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, ending the season as champions.

Pride despite the heartbreak

In an official club statement, Rivers United acknowledged the disappointment while celebrating what their players had achieved across the season. "The season has now concluded and we are proud to announce that Rivers United finished as runners-up and securing a CAF Champions League once again," the club wrote.

"This achievement reflects the resilience, discipline, and unity displayed by our players. We narrowly missed the title — competing at the highest level and challenging for it until the final weeks reaffirmed the standard and ambition that define this club."

Congratulations for Rangers

Finidi George's side were also gracious in defeat, extending congratulations to Rangers on their league triumph. "While the ultimate prize eludes us, we accept the result with grace and respect for the champions," the statement read.

Rivers United made clear that their ambitions remain firmly intact ahead of next season. "Our focus remains clear — to build this foundation, address our shortcomings, and return next season with greater resolve to bring the trophy back to Port Harcourt," the club added.

CAF Champions League bound

Despite missing out on the title, the runners-up finish ensures Rivers United will join Rangers in representing Nigeria in next season's CAF Champions League — a competition the Port Harcourt club has featured in before and will look to make their mark on once more.