Akwa United kicked start their Naija Super 8 campaign on a winning note with a 2-1 victory over Yobe Stars of Damaturu in Group B opener at the maiden edition of the competition at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan stadium in Lagos.
New signing Anthony Chwukwu Ebuka headed the Promise Keepers in front off James Ajako’s delivery from a corner kick in the 34th minute and in the 42nd minute Cyril Olisema fired a delightful strike into the net as Akwa United went into the half time break with a two goal lead.
On resumption of play, Akwa United continued where they left off and were awarded a penalty when Salomon Chigoziem was brought down in the box. Cyril Olisema dispatched the penalty but it was saved by goalkeeper Isa Ismail.
Moments later, Yobe Stars reduced the deficit when Emmanuel James sent a low free kick beyond everyone into the net.
Akwa United thought they had increased their advantage when Osoba Kabir’s effort got into the net but the assistant referee ruled the goal out for offside, but Akwa United held on to record their first win of the tournament.
In a post-match interview, coach Fatai Osho says he dedicated his first win to his players, with an assurance of better improvement ahead of the upcoming Nigeria Professional Football League season.
He expressed satisfaction with the performance of his team within the short period of his reign, adding that the building process will continue.
“It’s a is good win for us and I am happy. That’s a good start, what is important in any football game is to win and with the way we played, I see us doing very well in this competition and in the future. There’s a certain way we want to play, and my boys have shown sign that they are learning, that’s a good one for us, we can only leverage on that and see where we go from here, I’m really impressed,”
The Promise Keepers will face Rivers United on Monday at the same venue
One Response
Wow! Akwa United FC are doing well in the NAIJA Super 8 Tournament. Keep up the good work!