Power Dynamos picked up their first point of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Champions League Group Stage after playing Nigeria’s Rivers United to a goalless draw at the Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola today.
Abayellow showed plenty of intent and attacking ambition throughout the match, creating a number of scoring opportunities and maintaining pressure for long spells, especially in the first half.
Power made a bright start and nearly went ahead inside the opening 10 minutes when Eddy Ankobo was presented with a close-range opportunity, but Rivers United Goalkeeper, Onisodumeya Osagie, reacted quickly to make a save.
The visitors’ shot-stopper was again called into action in the 21st minute, racing off his line to deny Chifundo Mphasi after a well-worked passing move by Power.
Osward Mutapa’s side continued to dominate proceedings, with Prince Mumba going close around the half-hour mark, only to be denied by another strong save as Rivers were forced to absorb sustained pressure.
The visitors responded by making an early tactical change in the 37th minute, introducing Duke Osimaga for Defender, Ogechukwu Ogbu.
At the start of the second half, Coach Osward Mutapa refreshed his side, bringing on Brian Masanyinga for Daniel Adoko, as Power maintained their attacking approach.
Mphasi came close in the 55th minute with a powerful effort that narrowly missed the target.
Further attacking options were introduced in the 64th minute when Moses Shumah replaced Frederick Mulambia, while Innocent Kashita later came on for Ankobo as Power continued to search for the opening goal.
Rivers United had a rare sight of goal in the 66th minute, but Goalkeeper Willard Mwanza was alert, making a smart save at his near post to keep Power on level terms.
Shumah nearly made an instant impact in the 74th minute, rising well to meet a cross, but his header was tipped onto the post by the Rivers goalkeeper before the danger was cleared.
With 10 minutes remaining, Ronnel Manyanga was introduced as Power pushed forward in the closing stages. The team continued to press until the final whistle, with Shumah testing the goalkeeper from long range late on.
The contest ultimately ended scoreless, earning Power Dynamos a first point in the group as they look ahead to the remaining fixtures.
In his post match Interview, Coach Mutapa said he was disappointed with the result, especially after creating so many chances and playing all the football.
By Power Dynamos Media
