Rivers United netted the most goals and led Group B ahead of the final round of matches in the group stage of the CAFCC before falling in ASEC Mimosas in Yamoussoukro.
The Nigerian champions failed in their quest to finish as group winners in the CAFCC after falling to a defeat in their final game of the group stages.
Rivers United were visitors to ASEC Mimosas in the Ivorian city of Yamoussoukro but failed to conquer their host following a 1-0 defeat.
The Pride of Rivers needed just a point to finish as Group B but fell to a second-minute goal from Mofosse Karidioula.
14:41 - 27.03.2023
NPFL Review: Rivers United survive, Dogo magic persists as Akwa Utd enter top 2
An average of two goals was scored per game in the NPFL with champions Rivers United dropping points at home.
Rivers United lose top spot
Kariodioula proved to be a handful for the United defence and took little time to score what turned out to be the winner after just two minutes.
Nigerian champions United dominated the encounter in Cote d’Ivoire but failed to turn their dominance into something tangible.
The Rivers State team struggled to create any meaningful chances while their hosts, Mimosas, inspired by the match-winner, looked the most dangerous of the two.
Mimosas attempted nine shots compared to United’s four and created two solid chances in the game and also limited the visitors to half chances in the game.
16:33 - 20.03.2023
CAFCC Rivers United stars lead CAFCC team of the week
Rivers United duo deservedly take their places in the CAFCC team of the week after an excellent display vs Diables Noirs.
What the result means
Despite the defeat, United were already guaranteed a place in the quarterfinal of the CAFCC alongside their conquerors.
However, the result means the Pride of Rivers finished second in Group B, three points behind winners Mimosas.
In terms of possible opponents in the last eight, the NPFL champions could meet either Marumo Gallants FC from South Africa, AS FAR of Morocco or Young Africans from Tanzania in the next round.
20:45 - 19.03.2023
CAFCC Rivers United survive Diables Noirs scare to book quarterfinal spot
Nigerian champions Rivers United have made it to the CAFCC quarterfinal after a share of the spoils against Diables Noirs.
The draw for the TotalEnergiesCAFCC quarterfinal is slated for Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian side will now switch attention to the football league back in Nigeria looking to bounce back to winning ways.
They face Niger Tornadoes next and will be hoping to return to winning ways after losing their nine-match unbeaten run.
United sit second in Group B of the abridged NPFL season, just a point behind leaders Lobi Stars, who have played one more game.
The Pride of Rivers have taken two points from their last two away trips in the football league this season.