Recap
San Pedro were held to a 1-1 draw by Rivers United in the first leg of the preliminary round in Ivory Coast. Facing a disciplined and well-organised Nigerian side with considerable experience in African competitions, including participation in the most recent Champions League campaign, San Pedro struggled to create clear-cut opportunities for much of the match.
Their situation has become even more difficult ahead of the return leg in Nigeria. After arriving in Lagos and travelling onward to Uyo, the Ivorian side experienced further disruption when their luggage was lost, preventing them from holding a proper training session. This is far from ideal preparation for such an important continental fixture.
Rivers United can draw confidence from their outstanding home record. Last season, they were the strongest home team in Nigeria and playing in familiar surroundings should provide another significant advantage.
I expect the Nigerian side to take advantage on home turf and win the return leg.