John Noble: CAF Champions League exit driving Rivers United’s NPFL title ambition

John Noble: CAF Champions League exit driving Rivers United’s NPFL title ambition
John Noble: CAF Champions League exit driving Rivers United’s NPFL title ambitionČTK / imago sportfotodienst / IMAGO

Nigeria international John Noble has expressed Rivers United’s strong determination to clinch the Nigeria Premier Football League title following their disappointing CAF Champions League campaign.

The Pride of Rivers were unable to reach the quarter-finals after failing to advance past defending champions Pyramids, RS Berkane, and Power Dynamos in a tough Group A campaign. 

Finidi George’s side endured a difficult run, finishing bottom of the group with just one point from six matches, scoring only two goals and conceding 13 in the process.

Despite that setback on the continental stage, Rivers United have shifted their focus to domestic success. They currently sit fourth in the league standings, just two points behind leaders Ikorodu City, with four outstanding matches still to play. 

Noble remains confident that the team can secure a second league title and make amends for their underwhelming continental outing.

"As a team, we have carefully assessed our performance in the CAF Champions League and concluded that it fell short of the standards we set for ourselves at the start of the competition," the Super Eagles goalkeeper told Flashscore.com.

"It was disappointing out but it has strengthened our determination as we shift our focus to the league. We are fully committed and working tirelessly to secure the Premier League title. 

"The experience gained on the continental stage has helped us identify our shortcomings, and we are dedicated to correcting them. 

"With the positive mindset in camp and the unity among my teammates, I am confident we will emerge as league champions and proudly represent Nigeria again in the CAF Champions League next season."

Rivers United claimed their first Nigeria topflight crown in the 2021–22 season after edging out Plateau United to secure the historic triumph. 

To achieve a second diadem, the Port Harcourt–based side will need to overcome stiff competition from fellow contenders Ikorodu City, Enugu Rangers, Nasarawa United, and Abia Warriors. 

Notwithstanding the intense race, Noble insists the team is not under any pressure to emerge victorious. "We are not under pressure to win the title. This is our profession, and delivering results is what we are trained and paid for," he continued.

"From the start, we have carried the mindset of champions and we are convinced that we can win the league again this season.

"As players, we have made a commitment to get the job done and our coaches continue to inspire and guide us toward achieving this goal. 

"We are united in belief while trusting in God to see our hard work crowned with success. We understand that the journey will not be easy, but everyone at Rivers United is ready to give their all. 

"The ambition remains to finish the season as champions, make our supporters proud as well as compete again on the continent next season."

Coach Finidi George
Coach Finidi GeorgeČTK / imago sportfotodienst / AMADA MASARU

Noble shows support for under fire Finidi

Coach Finidi George has faced heavy criticism following the team’s lacklustre performances in the failed CAF Champions League expedition.

Even at the backlash, Noble has defended the tactician, insisting that the Ajax legend has been working tirelessly to improve the team’s fortunes.

Noble added: "Coach Finidi is undoubtedly a good and experienced coach who has been giving his very best.

"In football, you can put in maximum effort and still not get the desired results, that is the nature of the game. 

"He has been working tirelessly to ensure we achieve the results we need every time we step onto the pitch.

"His dedication and belief in the team continue to motivate us, and I am confident that Rivers United will get things right this time around."

Rivers United will face Barau United on Wednesday evening, and a victory could propel them to the top of the NPFL standings.

Shina Oludare
Shina OludareFlashscore