Naija Super 8: Akwa United FC dim Yobe Desert Stars in group B opener
Akwa United FC defeated Yobe Desert Stars FC 2-1 in the opening group B clash of the Naija Super 8 tournament at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan Lagos.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Fatai Osho took charge of his first game as Head Coach of Akwa United FC in the afternoon fixture on Saturday July 8, 2023.
The Promise Keepers, wild cards entrants to the maiden Naija Super 8 tournament were up against North East representatives Yobe Desert Stars FC.
The opening half-hour did not produce any goal as both teams battled for control of the match.
Anthony Chukwuebuka then broke the deadlock for Akwa United FC with a powerful header from a cross from left-back James Ajako.
Two minutes later, Jean Efala kept out a James Odey as the Nigeria National League side Yobe Desert Stars FC probed forward for an equalizer.
In the 42nd minute, Akwa United FC doubled the advantage courtesy of Cyril Olisema’s exquisite strike from outside the opposition penalty area.
Five minutes into the second half, the Promise Keepers should have gone three up from the penalty spot but Cyril Olisema’s spot-kick was saved.
Few minutes later, Akwa United FC were made to rue the missed opportunity when Emmanuel James pulled one back for Yobe Desert Stars FC.
The remaining 35 minutes of the game failed to produce more goals and so it was Akwa United FC who held on for a 2-1 win over Yobe Desert Stars FC.
A first win for new Akwa United FC head coach Fatai Osho in his first game in charge of the club.
Rivers United FC and Lobi Stars FC are the other teams in group B of the Naija Super 8 tournament.
