Kennedy Boboye tutored Sunshine Stars defeat Akwa United in Uyo

Kennedy Boboye tutored Sunshine Stars stunned Akwa United with a 1-2 away victory at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, securing all three points in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday Four encounter.

Goals from Chinedu Nwosu and Seth Mayi were enough to give the Owena Whales the much-needed away win, despite a late fightback from the hosts.

Sunshine Stars took the lead in the 20th minute when Chinedu Nwosu coolly chipped the ball over the onrushing Akwa United goalkeeper, capitalising on a brilliant assist from Seth Mayi. The early goal put Akwa United on the back foot, forcing the home side to chase the game.

Moments later, Sunshine Stars thought they had doubled their lead through Chidozie Iwundu, who reacted quickest to a rebound off Seidu Salisu’s well-taken free-kick. However, his goal was ruled out for offside, keeping Akwa United within reach.

Akwa United responded with urgency, attempting to level the match before halftime. However, Sunshine Stars’ defence, marshalled by Iwundu, Ogechukwu Ogbu, Yusuf Olowoshile, Peace Dewan, and Adamu Umar, stood firm. Sunshine Stars’ goalkeeper Emmanuel Ofori was in top form, keeping out multiple set pieces and dangerous crosses from the home team.

Sunshine Stars maintained their composure in the second half, despite Akwa United’s continuous pressure. In the 82nd minute, the Stars doubled their lead when former United star Seth Mayi, who had already provided the assist for Nwosu’s goal, scored the second with a powerful header from Ajagbe’s corner kick.

Akwa United responded almost immediately, with Wisdom Ndon pulling one back in the 84th minute. However, it proved to be too little, too late, as Sunshine Stars held on for the win.

Sunshine Stars’ first assistant coach, Bobola Akinfolarin, praised his team for their discipline and execution of the game plan, particularly after their disappointing loss to Abia Warriors in the previous match.

“We told the players to put the last game behind them and focus on today’s match. To God be the glory, we were able to coast home with maximum points,” Akinfolarin said.

He also credited the NPFL organisers for reducing the “home-must-win” mentality in the league, stating that it has made away victories like theirs more achievable. Looking ahead, Akinfolarin noted the team’s focus now shifts to their upcoming away tie against Kano Pillars in Katsina.

For Akwa United, the loss marks a setback in their campaign, as they were unable to break down Sunshine Stars’ resilient defence. Despite reducing the deficit late on, their failure to convert chances earlier in the match left them empty-handed.

Sunshine Stars’ victory moves them up the NPFL table,