Two Points Dropped – Imama Amapakabo Fumes As Abia Warriors Stumble Against Rivers United

Abia Warriors head coach Imama Amapakabo has described his side’s goalless draw against Rivers United as two points dropped after the hosts failed to secure victory in their 2026/2027 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) campaign.

The two teams played out a 0-0 draw at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba on Sunday during their Matchday 8 encounter.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Amapakabo expressed disappointment with the outcome, blaming his players’ poor attacking transitions and lack of confidence for their inability to find the back of the net.

The former Rangers International coach said he approaches every match with the intention of winning, making the dropped points particularly frustrating for his team.

The result means Abia Warriors have drawn three of their four home matches this season and collected nine points from eight league games. Amapakabo also acknowledged that his side had already dropped six points on home soil.

The coach expressed concern about the team’s heavy reliance on forward Chukwuemeka Obioma for goals. Obioma has scored six goals and provided one assist in the league campaign, but Amapakabo insisted that other attacking players must take greater responsibility.

He warned that depending on one individual to provide most of the team’s goals was not a sustainable approach, urging his younger players to contribute more in the final third.

Despite the disappointing result, Amapakabo praised young defender Godwin Meyanga for his performance on his league debut. He also indicated that other promising youngsters could receive opportunities if they continue to impress during training.

Meanwhile, Rivers United technical manager Finidi George expressed satisfaction with his team’s unbeaten away record and their overall performance in the league so far.

The draw kept Rivers United in second place on the NPFL table with 16 points, one point behind leaders Rangers International after eight matchdays.

Finidi praised his team’s defensive organisation but admitted that the demanding schedule was beginning to affect his players. He noted that maintaining consistency in away fixtures would be important as the season progresses.

The former Super Eagles winger also recalled that Rivers United missed out on last season’s league title by a single point, stressing that every point gained during the current campaign could prove decisive.

Although he acknowledged that his side’s second-half performance in Aba lacked consistency, Finidi said he was satisfied with the result and believed the team could build on its current form.

The Matchday 8 fixtures also produced several notable results. Katsina United defeated Enyimba 4-2, while Ikorodu City secured a 2-0 victory over Kwara United. Kun Khalifat FC beat Shooting Stars 2-0, and Sporting Lagos edged Bendel Insurance 2-1.

Plateau United recorded a convincing 4-0 win against Kano Pillars, while Warri Wolves defeated Inter Lagos 3-1. Barau FC and Enugu Rangers shared the points after a 2-2 draw, while Ranchers Bees and Niger Tornadoes played out a goalless stalemate. Nasarawa United also defeated Doma United 2-0.

With the season continuing to take shape, Abia Warriors will be looking to improve their home form and reduce their dependence on Obioma, while Rivers United will aim to maintain their consistency in the race for the NPFL title.