Abia Warriors Begin NPFL Campaign With Frustrating Draw

Abia Warriors Begin NPFL Campaign With Frustrating Draw

By BSN Sports 

Abia Warriors began their 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League campaign with a frustrating goalless draw against Oriental rivals Kun Khalifat FC of Owerri at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Matchday One encounter, initially scheduled for Sunday, was completed on Monday, August 31, after a heavy downpour rendered the pitch unplayable and forced the game to be postponed.

Playing in front of their home supporters, Abia Warriors struggled to find their rhythm in the opening exchanges, failing to create clear-cut opportunities as Kun Khalifat remained compact and disciplined.

Warriors head coach Imama Amapakabo handed competitive debuts to six new signings, with Kelvin Ihunwo, Osimaga Duke, Effimi Nsi, Emmanuel Nnaji, Seyi Oguntayo and Chidiebere Nnachi all named in the starting XI.

The encounter marked the third meeting between the two sides, with neither team able to establish superiority as the game remained goalless at the break.

Abia Warriors improved considerably after the interval, particularly following the introduction of Innocent Godwin and Ikoi Ettah for Duke and Nnachi in the 73rd minute.

The changes injected greater urgency into the Warriors' attack, with the hosts mounting sustained pressure in search of the opening goal.

Chinedu Iwueze was introduced two minutes later for Nnaji as Abia Warriors intensified their offensive efforts.

Despite their dominance during the closing stages, the hosts were let down by poor finishing, squandering several opportunities to claim all three points.

Their best chance arrived deep into stoppage time when Israel Joseph unleashed a curling effort that appeared destined for the back of the net. Kun Khalifat goalkeeper Akuchie Obinna, however, produced a superb save to keep out the effort and preserve his side’s point.

Akuchie was arguably the standout performer for the visitors, making several important interventions throughout the encounter to frustrate the home side.

The result means both teams begin the new NPFL season with a point, although Abia Warriors will feel they missed an opportunity to secure maximum points on home soil.

Abia Warriors will now turn their attention to their next assignment when they travel to Kaduna to face Ranchers Bees.