John Obuh, former Head Coach of Nigeria’s U20 national team, the Flying Eagles, has explained the reasons behind Abia Warriors’ collapse in their Matchday 11 clash against Lobi Stars at Lafia City Stadiu, Lafia, Completesports.com reports.
Abia Warriors appeared poised for a potential away victory against Daniel ‘Da Bull’ Amokachi’s side, leading 1-0. However, they capitulated in the final 13 minutes of play, ultimately losing 1-3.
Obuh, now the Executive Chairman of Abia Warriors, told Completesports.com on Thursday afternoon that his players became overconfident, believing they had already secured the win.
“It’s very unfortunate. We were close but ended up far away,” Obuh began.
“The players thought they had won. They believed the game was practically over and failed to manage the remaining part of it. It’s sad. They were carried away and couldn’t hold their ground, and we paid the price for it.”
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This defeat marked Abia Warriors’ second consecutive loss, following a Matchday 10 defeat to Heartland in an Oriental Derby.
Abia Warriors now prepare to host Enyimba in Sunday’s NPFL Matchday 12 fixture, already dubbed the ‘Abia Derby.’
Despite recent setbacks, Obuh expressed confidence in his team’s ability to bounce back in the ‘Umuahia Showdown.’
“Yeah, I’m hopeful the players will deliver. From what I’ve seen and what they’ve told the coach, Imama Amapakabo, I have no reason not to be optimistic,” Obuh stated confidently.
“If they play for the club and their coach, Imama, as they’ve promised, I believe we’ll get the result we deserve.”
Abia Warriors sit 12th in the NPFL table with 14 points, while Enyimba are third with 19 points going into Sunday’s derby.
By Sab Osuji
