Rivers United came away from the Laurent Pokou Stadium with a hard-earned 1-1 draw against San Pedro in the first leg of their CAF Champions League first preliminary round tie on Saturday.

The opening half produced chances at both ends, yet neither side could find the net before the break. It was an evenly contested affair, with both teams showing their intent without the clinical edge to match.

Dosso strikes for the hosts

San Pedro broke the deadlock 11 minutes into the second half, when Issouf Dosso capitalised on a gap in the Rivers United defence to give the hosts the lead.

The goal put Finidi George's side under pressure, but the Nigerian club refused to fold.

Douglas earns Rivers United parity

Substitute Iyowuna Douglas restored parity in the 69th minute, producing a composed finish inside the penalty area to level the tie. Douglas's calm execution gave Rivers United the away draw that could prove decisive heading into the second leg.

Rivers United held their shape from that point, defending resolutely to protect the result and return to Nigeria with something to show for their efforts.

Second leg to be held in Uyo

The reverse fixture is scheduled to take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo next Sunday, with the winners of the tie advancing to the next round of the CAF Champions League.

Elsewhere in the competition, Nigeria's other representatives Rangers International are set to face Sobemap FC of Benin Republic at the Moshood Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta on Sunday.