Coach Babaganaru Lauds Akwa United’s Fighting Spirit in Win Over Plateau United
Akwa United’s head coach, Muhammed Babaganaru, praised his players’ resilience following their hard-fought 1-0 victory over Plateau United at home on Sunday.
The game, which saw Friday Apollos score the decisive goal in stoppage time, secured Akwa United’s third consecutive home win this season. The goal, Apollos’ fourth of the campaign, came after he was introduced as a second-half substitute, continuing his impressive record of scoring from the bench.
Babaganaru expressed his satisfaction with the performance, especially given the challenges his team faced over a demanding nine-day stretch of games. “It was a very tough match in which both teams played very well and created lots of chances,” Babaganaru said. “I’m really happy that we have been able to pick the maximum three points from this game. It’s been a stressful period for us, but the boys responded very well.”
Reflecting on the match, Babaganaru noted the tactical approach of Plateau United, who aimed to frustrate his side. “Plateau United came with a game plan to frustrate us, but our target was to pick all three points because our position on the log is not good enough,” he said. “I want to congratulate my players for their spirited performance and their never-say-die attitude.”
While Babaganaru acknowledged that his team’s finishing still needs improvement, he was pleased with their persistence. “We are doing all we can to improve on our finishing. At some point, the boys were anxious at crucial moments, which affected our execution in the box. But we kept pushing, believing until that last moment when the goal came. I’m proud of their fight until the end.”
On the impact of Apollos, who has now scored all his goals after coming off the bench, Babaganaru emphasized the young striker’s potential. “Friday is a wonderful striker, and we are working to improve his game. This is his first season in any league, and he has adjusted almost immediately,” Babaganaru said. “We are careful with how we introduce him into games, and I’m happy that he is getting it right gradually. This is his fourth goal from the bench, and we will continue to support and encourage him.”
With the win, Akwa United moved to 17th on the table with 15 points from 14 games, sharing the same points as Plateau United, who are 16th due to superior goal difference. The team will now focus on their next challenge, a trip to Lagos to face Ikorodu City in Matchweek 15 on Sunday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
