Nigerian champions, Rivers United started their group stage campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup on a disappointing note going down to a 3-0 defeat to Diable Noirs of Congo on Sunday.
The Pride of Rivers struggled from the blast of the whistle and went behind on 30 minutes when Carla Wunda blasted home for the hosts.
Diable Noirs doubled their advantage two minutes later courtesy of a fine strike from Jaures Ngombe.
Domi Massoumou scored the hosts’ third goal from the spot in the 37th minute.
Rivers United missed the chance to reduce the deficit when Ebube Duru failed to convert from the spot on 57 minutes.
Stanley Eguma’s side will face Cote d’Ivoire’s ASEC Mimosa in their next game on Sunday, February 19.
