9ja FlavourNigeria Professional Football League

Akwa United Relegated from NPFL After Final Day Defeat to Heartland

Former Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Akwa United FC have been relegated from the top flight after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Heartland FC on the final day of the 2024/25 season.

Isaac Nassy scored the opening goal just two minutes into the match at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri, with a 2-1 result sealing Akwa United’s drop to the second division just four years after they lifted the league title in 2021.

It was a must-win clash for both sides, with Heartland also fighting to avoid relegation. But while Heartland’s fate was still dependent on other results, Akwa United’s slim survival hopes rested on victory and favourable outcomes elsewhere. Unfortunately for the Promise Keepers, neither came.

Coach Kennedy Boboye, who returned to the club during the season in a bid to rescue them, watched as his side failed to find a way back into the game after conceding early. Despite some moments of promise, Akwa United lacked the cutting edge and composure needed on a day of such high stakes and so lost 2-1 in Owerri.

The result means Akwa United finish the season with 44 points, not enough to stay afloat as Katsina United, Niger Tornadoes, and El-Kanemi Warriors all secured crucial results to remain in the league.

Final Day Drama Across the League

Katsina United beat Kwara United 1-0 to end the season with 50 points, securing safety.

Niger Tornadoes won 3-2 vs Kano Pillars,  to stay just ahead of the drop zone.

El-Kanemi Warriors got the result against already relegated Sunshine Stars, which proved just enough to keep them up.

With Lobi Stars and Sunshine Stars already confirmed for relegation before Matchday 38, Akwa United and Heartland FC fall to completes the quartet of teams dropping to the Nigeria National League (NNL).

A Campaign to Forget

Akwa United’s season was plagued by inconsistency, poor defending, and lack of goals. They scored just 35 times and conceded 38 goals across 38 matches, losing 17 games along the way.

Their relegation marks a significant fall from grace for the club that only four years ago were crowned NPFL champions. It will now be a long road back for the Uyo-based side, whose fans will be heartbroken by the team’s unexpected descent.

The curtain has now fallen on a thrilling NPFL season, with Remo Stars crowned champions, while Akwa United face the harsh reality of life in the second tier.

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