Osun United FC Falter in Uyo as Goodswill Akpabio United FC Secures Victory

Goodswill Akpabio United FC

Osun United FC suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat against Goodswill Akpabio United FC (GAUFC) in a heated Nigeria National League (NNL) clash at the Uyo Township Stadium on Matchday 7 of the 2024/2025 season. The result leaves the Imole Gladiators in second position in the NNL Conference B standings with 13 points, while Goodswill Akpabio United FC climbed to sixth place with 8 points.

The match began on an even footing as both sides displayed determination in the opening stages. Osun United controlled possession early on, with Essien coming close to opening the scoring in the 13th minute, but his shot lacked power and was comfortably saved by the Goodswill Akpabio United FC’s goalkeeper.

GAUFC responded with a series of attacks, including a missed opportunity by Kennedy Energy in the 30th minute after beating the offside trap. Osun United’s defense, marshaled by Olalekan Gabriel, stood firm, thwarting several dangerous moves from the hosts.

The second half saw heightened intensity as both teams sought to break the deadlock. A key moment came in the 60th minute when GAUFC had a goal disallowed for offside. However, the breakthrough arrived in the 73rd minute when Kunle Ashiru’s tackle was deemed a foul inside the box, resulting in a penalty. Eddidion calmly converted the spot-kick in the 76th minute, sending the home fans into a frenzy.

Despite their efforts to equalize, Osun United struggled to create clear-cut chances, with Ganiyu Gberefun and substitute Kunle Ashiru missing opportunities to restore parity. Late substitutions by the Imole Gladiators, including the introduction of Olamide Adeleke and Aremu, failed to turn the tide around as Goodswill Akpabio United held on for a hard-fought victory.

The loss marks Osun United’s second of the season, and they will aim to bounce back in Matchday 8 as they push to maintain their position in the promotion race. Meanwhile, Goodswill Akpabio United will hope to build on this momentum as they continue their climb up the table.