Sunday Megwo’s well-taken header in the 24th minute and Anthony Ijoma’s stoppage-time strike secured a commanding 2-0 victory for Abia Warriors over visiting Lobi Stars at the Umuahia Township Stadium on Wednesday.
Imama Amapakabo’s side needed all three points against bottom-placed Lobi Stars to strengthen their bid for a continental ticket, and they delivered convincingly.
The in-form Megwo opened the scoring with a fine header—his 10th goal of the season—before Ijoma sealed the win with a superb late finish in the 93rd minute.
The victory keeps Abia Warriors firmly in third place, two points behind second-placed Rivers United, who fell 1-0 to Bayelsa United, and four points ahead of Shooting Stars, who face El Kanemi Warriors in Maiduguri on Thursday.
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Reacting to the win, head coach Amapakabo expressed satisfaction, especially against a side with nothing to lose.
“Every game is difficult. We knew they could be spoilers, given their position. I kept reminding my boys not to be complacent, and they executed the job perfectly,” the former Enugu Rangers boss said.
With seven matches remaining, Amapakabo remains focused on securing a continental spot.
“There are still 21 points up for grabs. I don’t know where that will place us, but I keep telling my players to push as hard as they can, focus on each game, and see where it takes us. It’s all about mentality.”
Abia Warriors will now shift their attention to a highly anticipated Abia Derby against neighbors Enyimba.
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