Akwa United FC played a goalless draw at home against Sunshine Stars in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Week 15 fixture.
This match, played on Thursday, December 21, 2023, marked the first game for Akwa United under the guidance of their new coach, Abdullahi Umar, following the resignation of Coach Fatai Osho.
The game took place at the Eket Stadium, with the home team looking to make an impression in their first outing under the new coaching leadership.
However, the visitors, Sunshine Stars, applied early pressure, earning multiple corner kicks and forcing Akwa United’s goalkeeper, Jean Efala, into an early save.
In the 7th minute, Akwa United’s Wisdom Ndon had a chance, connecting with an Osoba Kabir cross, but the effort went wide for a goal-kick.
The first half witnessed attempts from both sides, with Isaac Emmanuel, Ikechukwu Nwani, and Anietie Uko testing Akwa United’s defense.
After a goalless first half, Coach Edith Ogoye of Sunshine Stars made two changes to his team at the start of the second half.
The hosts struggled to find the back of the net. Coach Abdullahi Umar making strategic change, bringing in Hadi Mohammed for Akintunde Bala in the 53rd minute, and it almost paid off immediately but the forward blazed his effort over the crossbar.
The closing moments of the game saw both teams seeking a breakthrough, with Akwa United having two penalty appeals turned down.
The drama continued as Sunshine Stars’ goalkeeper, Ishola Abdulateef, received a red card during added time.
Ultimately, the match ended in a goalless draw, earning an important point for Sunshine Stars on the road.
Meanwhile, Akwa United FC will continue their quest for a turnaround in what has been a challenging 2023/2024 NPFL season.
Under the coaching leadership of Abdullahi Umar, the Promise Keepers will return to action vs Katsina United FC in an away fixture after the festivities.
