Nigerian side suffer group stage defeat in Morocco with a 3-0 loss.
In a commanding performance on Saturday, February 14, 2026, Renaissance Sportive de Berkane delivered a ruthless display to defeat Rivers United 3-0 in their TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Group A clash at the Stade Municipal de Berkane in Morocco.
The victory secured by the Moroccan side in the sixth and final matchday of the group stage saw them conclude with 10 points, sealing qualification for the CAF Champions League quarter-finals, while Rivers United exited the tournament with just one point — a disappointing end to their African campaign.
RS Berkane set the tone early with Youssef Mehri opening the scoring in the 38th minute, giving the hosts the lead and placing pressure on the Nigerian outfit. The momentum only grew for the Moroccans as Paul Valere Bassene doubled the advantage in the 43rd minute.
Just after the break, Bassene struck again in the 53rd minute, completing his brace and effectively putting the game beyond Rivers United’s reach. By then, the Moroccan side had shown complete control in midfield and attack.
Rivers United’s Struggles Continue
The Nigerian side, who had struggled for form throughout the group stage, were unable to muster a response despite earlier competitive efforts in the tournament; including a narrow 2-1 loss to RS Berkane in Uyo where they led before conceding two late goals in stoppage time.
Rivers United’s exit reflects a campaign where scoring opportunities were limited and defensive lapses proved costly against tactically disciplined opponents.
What This Means for Both Teams
RS Berkane’s decisive win highlights their ambitions in this season’s CAF Champions League, showing both clinical finishing and strategic control as they push deeper into Africa’s premier club competition.
For Rivers United, the focus now turns to regrouping and refocusing on next season’s continental campaign, while also maintaining momentum in domestic competitions.