**Rivers United's CAF Champions League Woes: A Glimpse into Nigeria's Continental Aspirations** In a season where Rivers United was touted as a potential force to be reckoned with in the Nigeria Premier Football League, their campaign in the CAF Champions League has been a stark reminder of the chasm between domestic prowess and continental relevance. A 4-1 thrashing at the hands of Egyptian champions Pyramids FC in Uyo on Sunday serves as a testament to the unforgiving nature of Africa's elite football stage. The game initially followed a script that hinted at redemption rather than regret, with Rivers United's Stephen Manyo unleashing a thunderous long-range strike in the 33rd minute to momentarily ignite belief among the team and their fans. However, this moment of promise was short-lived, as Pyramids emerged from the interval with the calm authority of champions, dictating the pace of the game and forcing errors from the Nigerian side. A familiar unraveling ensued as Pyramids' response was swift and ruthless, culminating in a penalty conversion that sealed the visitors' dominance. The decisive blow arrived in the 77th minute, followed by a devastating 14-minute surge that exposed the gulf in composure and experience between the two teams. The result confirmed Pyramids' dominance of Group A, lifting them to 13 points and sealing top spot with a game to spare, while Rivers United remain bottom with just one point, their elimination now beyond doubt. The implications of this defeat extend beyond Port Harcourt, with the margins separating success and disappointment starkly illustrated in other groups. In Group D, Stade Malien's disciplined display secured early qualification, while Esperance de Tunis now face a nervy final matchday to protect their quarter-final hopes. Group C remains delicately poised after Mamelodi Sundowns were held to a 1-1 draw by Saint Éloi Lupopo, leaving qualification unresolved heading into the final round. For Rivers United, the defeat to Pyramids was not just another loss; it was a snapshot of where they currently stand in Africa's hierarchy. While moments of promise have existed, this campaign has served as a stark reminder of the work that needs to be done to bridge the gap between domestic authority and continental relevance.