Nigeria, Feb. 10 -- The Nigerian champions had hoped to revive their campaign against the North African giants following a slow start to the group stage.

While Rivers United showed promise in the opening half and even took the lead, the contest shifted dramatically after the break as Pyramids asserted total control.



The News Chronicle understands that Rivers United matched their visitors in intensity during the first half, pressing high and limiting Pyramids' attacking rhythm.

However, the Egyptians returned with greater pace and precision in the second half, scoring four unanswered goals and exposing gaps in the hosts' defensive structure.



Finidi confessed that following the break his side found it challenging to make strong t...