Rivers United FC sit top of the Nigeria Premier Football League table, driven by defensive authority rather than attacking flair. The Port Harcourt giants boast the best defensive record in the division, a foundation that has carried them clear despite scoring just 17 goals in 19 matches.
It has been effective, if uninspiring. Rivers United usually line up in a 4-3-3, but their strength lies firmly behind the ball. The goalkeeping department is arguably the best in the league, with Onisodumeya Osagie and Henry Ani Ozoemena forming a top-class duo by NPFL standards.
In defence, competition is healthy across the back line. At left-back, youngster Elias Ochobi has been a standout and continues to push the more established Abdulrafiu Taiwo. On the opposite flank, newcomers Isaac Annor and Nsi Effimi are locked in a steady battle for minutes. Both are dependable, though neither offers much attacking thrust.
Rivers United are particularly well stocked at centre-back. Veteran Temple Emekayi, Stephen Egbe Manyo, Ogechukwu Emmanuel Ogbu and Bolu Sholumade have all impressed at different stages of the campaign. Emekayi recently reached 150 NPFL appearances, a remarkable milestone for a defender who has still never scored a league goal. Ogbu, signed from Sunshine Stars FC, has adapted well after spending much of his career at left-back. Manyo, now 25, is widely regarded as one of the finest centre-backs in the league.
The standout, however, has been Sholumade. Cultured on the ball and tactically intelligent, he has often stepped into defensive midfield and has arguably been Rivers United’s best player this season. The quality is evident, even if age profiles suggest Europe is no longer a realistic destination for most of this unit.
Midfield has been solid rather than spectacular. Wasiu Falolu, signed from Crown FC, is enjoying a strong debut NPFL season. Seyi Oguntayo, Emmanuel Nnaji, Tony Omaka and Duke Osimaga have all delivered consistent performances. The most refined presence is Taofeek Abayomi Otaniyi, whose influence continues to grow as the season progresses.
The attack remains the weakest area of the team. Goals have been shared sparingly, with newcomer Maclyn Biokpo leading the charts on three goals despite mostly featuring from the bench. First-choice striker Samson Obi has found the net just once. Timothy Okunoye Zechariah offers pace and width from the left but lacks a decisive final touch, while Aniekeme Okon is most effective cutting in from the right.
Veteran Friday Ubong, closing in on 280 NPFL appearances, remains the most dangerous attacking option. Able to operate on either wing, his experience and movement still trouble defences.
Rivers United may not excite neutrals, but their formula is clear. Defensive discipline, squad depth at the back and just enough goals have placed them at the summit of the NPFL. For now, efficiency is winning the title race.
Top scorers: Maclyn Biokpo 3, Bolu Sholumade 3, Friday Ubong 3, Stephen Egbe Manyo 2
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