Abia Warriors FC secured a convincing 2-0 victory over Lobi Stars in their Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Match Day 31 clash at the Umuahia Township Stadium on Wednesday.
Goals from Megwo Sunday and Anthony Ijomah ensured the hosts continued their fine run of form while keeping their chase for a continental ticket alive.
Despite being frustrated for large parts of the first half by a determined Lobi Stars side, Abia Warriors found the breakthrough in the 25th minute. Paul Samson delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, and Megwo Sunday rose highest to nod home a sublime header, giving the home side a deserved lead.
The Warriors could have extended their advantage in the 38th minute, but Megwo Sunday squandered a golden opportunity from six yards after Ayodele Ezekiel’s delivery into the box.
Lobi Stars, who are battling relegation, showed resilience throughout the game but struggled to create clear-cut chances. Their hopes of snatching a late equalizer were dashed in stoppage time when Anthony Ijomah unleashed a stunning left-footed curler to seal all three points for Abia Warriors.
With the win, Abia Warriors remain in third place on the NPFL table, strengthening their push for a continental competition spot. Meanwhile, Coach Mohammed Baba Ganaru’s Lobi Stars remain rooted at the bottom of the standings, deepening their relegation worries.
Speaking after the game, Abia Warriors head coach Imama Amapakabo praised his team’s performance but emphasized a step-by-step approach to their ambitions.
“The target is the next game. We’re fully focused on the next match and not the future matches. Of course, our target is the continental ticket, but we’ll take it one step at a time,” Amapakabo said.
Megwo Sunday and Anthony Ijomah have now combined to score 18 league goals this season, proving instrumental to Abia Warriors’ impressive campaign.
Full-Time Score:
Abia Warriors 2-0 Lobi Stars
(Sunday Megwo 25’, Anthony Ijomah 90’+2)
