Akwa United FC returned to winning ways after piping Enyimba FC a 3-1 victory in a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match day 23 fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
The game, played on Monday, March 4, 2024, saw both teams aiming for maximum points in a fixture with a rich history.
Akwa United began the game well, with left-back David Phillip tapping home a cross from inside the opposition area to put the hosts ahead within six minutes of play, setting them up for a triumphant return to Uyo.
That goal laid the foundation for further Akwa United attacks, while the visitors also had their fair share of opportunities in a keenly contested half.
Local hero Imo Obot was Enyimba’s most potent weapon with his set-pieces, as he rattled the crossbar with goalkeeper Jean Efala beaten.
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At halftime, Akwa United FC held a slim 1-0 advantage.
Six minutes into the second half, Akwa United found the back of Super Eagles goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke’s net again.
Sani Suleiman was picked out by a neat through ball and rounded the on-rushing Olorunleke before slotting into the empty goal.
This goal reassured fans of the Promise Keepers in Uyo who had flocked to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium to watch the match.
Enyimba FC threatened with two free-kicks taken by Imo Obot, but both attempts hit the crossbar.
The turning point came in the 75th minute when goalkeeper Jean Efala was adjudged to have brought down Enyimba FC forward Chijioke Mbaoma inside the penalty area.
Mbaoma stepped up and calmly fired past Efala to set up a tense finale.
Despite attempts by the champions to find an equalizer, Akwa United FC held firm and added a third goal deep into stoppage time.
Enterprising forward Sani Suleiman completed his brace in stoppage time to seal a 3-1 victory for Akwa United FC against Enyimba FC.
Recall that Before the explosive encounter, Akwa United were piped by Sport Lagos 2-1 at away match while Bayelsa United beat the Akwa Ibom team 1-0 at Eket Sports Stadium,
After playing 24 matches, Akwa United still close to relegation zone have 24 points.
