CAF has announced the 2025/26 schedule for the Champions League and Confederation Cup, with preliminary rounds starting in November.
Rivers United are set for a major financial reward after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) confirmed its new prize money structure, guaranteeing the Nigerian club $700,000 (₦1.2 billion) for reaching the CAF Champions League group stage.
The Pride of Rivers sealed their place in the group stage for the first time in their history after a thrilling 3–1 victory over Mozambique’s Black Bulls in Port Harcourt, securing a 3–2 aggregate win in the second preliminary round.
Wasiu Falolu, Maclyn Biokpo and Timothy Zachariah were all on target in the memorable win, which also marked the first time Rivers United scored more than one goal in a game this season.
The result ended Nigeria’s seven-year absence from the CAF Champions League group stage, with Lobi stars last achieving the feat in 2018.
CAF’s updated financial package now guarantees Rivers United $700,000 for reaching the group phase a huge boost for coach Finidi George’s men as they prepare to compete among Africa’s elite when the group stage kicks off in November.
Elsewhere, Nigeria’s other continental representatives Remo Stars suffered elimination after a heavy 2–0 defeat to Mamelodi Sundowns in Pretoria on Saturday, confirming a 7–1 aggregate loss to the South African champions following an embarrassing first-leg defeat in Abeokuta.
CAF also confirmed that Remo Stars, along with Abia Warriors and Kwara United, will each receive an additional $50,000 after being knocked out in the preliminary rounds.
Rivers United earn ₦1.2bn after reaching the CAF Champions League group stage, as CAF confirms new prize money for clubs.
Finidi George makes history with the Pride of Rivers. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images
According to CAF’s statement, every participating club was initially given $50,000 before the preliminary round. Teams eliminated early will now get an extra $50,000, while those that qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage are guaranteed $400,000.
CAF says the move is aimed at improving financial stability and rewarding performance across its competitions.