NPFL23: Lukman scores as Abia Warriors stun Rangers Int’l in Awka

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Abia Warriors started the season with a stunning 2-0 victory against Rangers International in group B of the 2022/2023 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) in Awka City Stadium, Awka.

Bello Lukaman scored in the 42nd minute to give Erasmus Onuh’s side the lead before Monday Yakubu doubled the lead in the 93rd minute to secure maximum points for the visitors.

Abia Warriors came into the encounter with sixteen outfield players, took the lead after captain Nweke Kalu delivered a brilliant cross for Bello Lukaman to head it home in the 42nd minute.

Rangers Int’l came back in the second half with hopes of bouncing back in the game but could not create enough goalscoring opportunities in the final third.

Midfielder Monday Yakubu delivered a moment of brilliance when he slotted home in the 93rd minute to make it 2-0 for the visitors.

Speaking with journalists after the game, head coach of Abia Warriors, Erasmus Onuh praised the performance of his players.

“We came into the game on the back of having just 16 outfield players,” Erasmus said.

“However, the way they performed against this tough Rangers team today showed that this team (Abia Warriors) can challenge for the NPFL title this season.

“Although, it is just the first game of the season but we can keep on improving to make our team to be more stronger because the season is a marathon,” the former Heartland FC gaffer concluded.

Abia Warriors will return to Umuahia for the midweek action against Bayslea United, while Rangers Int’l will be hoping to bounce back when they travel to Jos on Wednesday to tackle Lobi Stars in Matchday 2.

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