Power Dynamos vs Rivers United prediction, H2H and probable lineups — 24 January 2026
Power Dynamos
Rivers United FC
As part of the third round of the CAF Champions League group stage, Power Dynamos will take on Rivers United. The clash will unfold in Zambia on Saturday, January 24. Kick-off is scheduled for 14:00 Central European Time. I’m backing a bet focused on the goal tally in this fixture.
Match preview
Power Dynamos come into the encounter with Rivers United riding high after a string of strong performances in the Zambian Super League. Currently topping the domestic table with 35 points from 17 matches, the team holds a comfortable lead over their closest rivals, which should bolster their confidence heading into this crucial CAF Champions League tie.
Early in 2026, the Zambians notched up a series of wins, including a 2-0 victory over Mutondo Stars and a 1-0 result against Green Eagles, followed by another win against Mufulira. These outcomes have solidified the hosts’ psychological edge and squad discipline.
However, in the Champions League group stage, the team has yet to pick up a single point, having lost both matches without finding the net. This contrast between domestic dominance and continental struggles underscores the challenges Power Dynamos face on the international scene.
The key factor for the Zambians will be adapting to the high tempo and pressing style seen at the continental level. Home support and their status as national league leaders should help Power Dynamos keep pace with their Nigerian opponents, but improving their finishing remains the main concern.
Rivers United have also shown mixed form in the 2025/26 campaign, combining convincing wins with disappointing setbacks across competitions.
In the CAF Champions League, the Nigerians are still searching for their first points after two rounds, suffering defeats to Pyramids and Berkane. Rivers have managed just one goal while conceding five in the group stage, highlighting their struggles with both finishing and defensive solidity at the highest level.
Nevertheless, outside of CAF competition, Rivers United have been competitive, winning a significant portion of their matches and displaying a balanced approach both in attack and defense. In their last six official games, Rivers have recorded three wins, two draws, and just one loss, pointing to solid overall form and a capacity to fight for results.
Psychologically, the club enters the showdown against Power Dynamos motivated to prove their credentials in the battle for a place in the knockout rounds. It’s also worth noting that these sides are likely to battle it out for third place in their group.
Match facts
- Dynamos have won their last three matches without conceding a goal.
- Rivers have not scored more than one goal per game in their last six outings.
- Dynamos average 1.2 goals per home game, while Rivers average 0.7 goals per game away from home.
Probable lineups
- Power Dynamos: Mulenga, Soko, Bamidele, Chanda, Kashita, Chiboni, Mumba, Tembo, Adoko, Mulambia, Ankobo.
- Rivers United: Onisodumeya, Abdulrafiu, Ogechukwu, Manyo, Annor, Martins, Falolu, Nnadji, Ubong, Zacharia, Obi.
H2H
The teams have never faced each other before.
Prediction
We can expect an intriguing contest between two evenly matched sides. Power Dynamos will look to capitalize on home advantage, while Rivers United will aim to strike on the counterattack. Given the teams’ styles and the importance of the result, a low-scoring affair seems likely. My prediction: total goals under 2.5.
