Akwa United kicked off their Naija Super 8 campaign in style, securing a well-deserved 2-1 victory over Yobe Stars of Damaturu in their Group B opener at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos. The win marked a strong start for Akwa United in the inaugural edition of the tournament.
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Right from the start, Fatai Osho's men displayed their intent to dominate the match. Their breakthrough came in the 34th minute when Anthony Chwukwu Ebuka, a new signing, capitalized on a well-placed corner kick to give his team the lead. The goal showcased Akwa United's attacking prowess and set the tone for the remainder of the game.
As the first half progressed, the Uyo based side continued to assert their authority. In the 42nd minute, Cyril Olisema unleashed a stunning strike that found the back of the net, doubling Akwa United's advantage and further demoralizing Yobe Stars.
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The second half saw Akwa United maintain their intensity, pressing for further goals. Their persistence paid off when Salomon Chigoziem was brought down in the box, resulting in a penalty. Although the penalty was saved, Akwa United remained determined and focused on protecting their lead.
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Yobe Stars managed to pull one goal back through Emmanuel James, who found the net with a well-placed low free kick. However, Akwa United's defense remained resolute, denying Yobe Stars any further scoring opportunities.
Akwa United thought they had extended their lead when Osoba Kabir's effort found the net, but it was disallowed for offside. Nevertheless, Akwa United held on to their advantage, displaying resilience and composure until the final whistle to secure their first victory of the tournament.
A mjor part of Akwa United's defence and team as a whole has always been Wisdom Ndon and he featured the whole ninety minutes racking up interceptions and clearances whilst the 2021 Champions were under pressure. ''I feel like we deserved the win, we played like winners honeslty and we won" - Ndon said to 02Sport Football during an interview after the game.
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Uche Collins also played 61 minutes of the encounter before being replaced by ex Akwa United returnee Kufre Ebong. The striker had quite a positive game as he created space numerous times for his midfielders and supported play despite being denied by the Yobe Desert Stars defence that consists of players like Chinedu Ozor.
I feel it was a relatively tough game, we a goal canceled, its been a while we played a match as tough as this but I'm sure if i do get a chance on Monday, I'm ready to try harder to get on the scoresheet. said in a chat on Sunday with NPFL TransferMarket
As the Promise Keepers progresses in the Naija Super 8, they will draw confidence from their opening victory and look to build upon their positive start. The team's collective effort and determination, showcased in their win over Yobe Stars, set a promising foundation for their campaign in the tournament.
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Akwa United's convincing 2-1 win over Yobe Stars in their Naija Super 8 opener highlights their strong start and aspirations for success. The team's cohesive play and clinical finishing were instrumental in securing the victory. As the tournament unfolds, Akwa United will aim to maintain their winning momentum and make a lasting impact in the Naija Super 8.
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