Rivers United Team Safe After Bus Accident Before Federation Cup Match

Players and officials of Rivers United are safe after their team bus had a road accident on Thursday. They were on their way to Awka, Anambra State, for their President Federation Cup Round of 16 match against Nasarawa United.

The club’s Media Officer, Charles Mayuku, said the accident took place along the Obiri-Ikwerre Airport Road near Port Harcourt. This happened shortly after the team left their camp.

Rivers United confirmed that some players and officials suffered minor injuries. Thankfully, there were no deaths or serious injuries reported.

“The club can confirm that some players and officials sustained minor injuries in the accident. Thankfully, there have been no fatalities or life-threatening injuries reported. All affected individuals are currently receiving appropriate medical attention and are in stable condition,” the statement read.

The club added that their medical team is keeping a close watch on those affected. Meanwhile, management is looking at the situation and planning for the team's travel and the upcoming Federation Cup match.

“The safety, health, and well-being of our players and officials remain our utmost priority,” the club said.

Rivers United also expressed gratitude to their supporters, partners, and the football community for their concern and prayers after the accident.

This accident happens at a key moment for Rivers United. They are still aiming for trophies after just missing out on the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title.

The team, managed by Finidi George, ended the league season in second place after a fierce battle with Rangers International. Rangers won the league title on the last day with 68 points, just one point ahead of Rivers United, who also won their last league match but fell short.

Still, Rivers United are determined to finish the season with a trophy in the President Federation Cup. In their last match, they defeated Rangers 3-2 in a thrilling Round of 32 clash, which gave them a spot in the last 16. This win came just days after Rangers had taken the league title from them by one point.

Now, Rivers United hopes the injured players recover quickly as they prepare for the Round of 16 match against Nasarawa United. The match is set for Saturday at the Awka City Stadium in Anambra.