Best Odds Center
best odds centre button
Click here!
Sport TV
watch live tv button
Click here!
to watch
Live FootBall
NPFL
Click here!
Live Scores
play watch Live Score button
Click here!

2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 19: Abia Warriors Finish First Half in Second Place

Posted : 30 December 2025

A second-half strike from Plateau State-born winger Taheer Abubakar earned Abia Warriors a crucial 1-0 away win over Plateau United, allowing the Umuahia-based side to conclude the first stanza of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on a high note. The victory marked Abia Warriors’ fourth away triumph of the season, propelling them to second place in the league standings as they continued their pursuit of another continental ticket.

Abia Warriors coach Imama Amapakabo surprised many fans by making eight changes to the squad that faced Warri Wolves in their previous fixture. Notably, Ekpere Oguocha made his league debut in the starting lineup, adding fresh energy to the team.

The matchday atmosphere was electric, with Plateau fans providing strong support at the New Jos Stadium. The Plateau State-born trio of Chindi Merpring, Jibrin Faiz, and Taheer Abubakar received warm cheers from their families, making them the centre of attention before kickoff.

Both sides began cautiously, with the hosts dominating possession but struggling to break down Abia Warriors’ defence. Plateau relied on long throws, which the visiting team managed effectively, keeping the first half goalless.

In the second half, Plateau United made double substitutions in an attempt to penetrate the Warriors’ defence. However, Abia Warriors remained resilient. In the 68th minute, captain and goalkeeper Odah Okiemute launched a long ball, which Chindi Merpring delivered forward. Taheer Abubakar showcased his pace to outrun his marker and delicately chip the ball over Plateau’s goalkeeper Bala Favour, igniting wild celebrations among the away supporters.

Plateau United reacted with three further substitutions in search of an equalizer, but Abia Warriors countered with five changes, introducing Emmanuel Ogbuagu, Fatal Abdullahi, Paul Samson, Samuel Ogunjimi, and Innocent Godwin to see out the victory.

Abia Warriors will now enjoy a mid-season break, resuming action on January 3, 2026, as they prepare to host Plateau United in the reverse fixture scheduled for January 14, 2026, at the Umuahia Township Stadium.

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics

close button
Please fill captcha :