Nigeria Leagues
‘It’s not a big clash’ – Blankson downplays Rivers Angels’ South-South derby vs Delta Queens
By Samuel Ahmadu
Rivers Angels of Port Harcourt arrived in Asaba on Tuesday ahead of their South-South derby against Delta Queens, with head coach Tosan Blankson downplaying the significance of the match.
Despite the fierce rivalry, Blankson insists it’s not a big clash, given the changes in both teams.
Fresh off their impressive victory over FC Robo, the “Jewels of Rivers” are confident and eager to make their mark in Asaba.
Blankson, who previously led Delta Queens to the league title in the 2022/2023 season, emphasized that the current squad he faces is very different from the one he once coached.
“It’s not a big clash because the players I coached at Delta Queens are no longer there. Most of them have moved on,” Blankson stated. “We’re focused on taking it one match at a time, and we’re here for nothing but a victory on Wednesday.”
While he respects Delta Queens’ potential, Blankson firmly believes his team has the upper hand.
“I’m not underestimating Delta Queens, but their current squad doesn’t compare to mine.”
Former Delta Queens captain and now Rivers Angels midfielder, Taiwo Afolabi, echoed her coach’s sentiment, expressing her determination to secure all three points. Though she has a special connection with her former team, Afolabi made it clear that business comes first.
“I’m back home to play against my old team, but this is strictly business,” Afolabi said. “I’m ready to help my team leave with the full 3 points.”
The two teams share a competitive history, with Rivers Angels winning three of their last nine encounters, Delta Queens winning once, and five matches ending in draws.
