The Nigeria Professional Football League has seen another chapter unfold as Akwa United was confirmed to be ousted from the Nigerian top-tier football league after losing 2-1 away from home to Emmanuel Amunike’s Heartland FC of Owerri.
Akwa United and Heartland FC’s match was a do-or-die clash that would determine which team would join Sunshine Stars and Lobi Stars in the NNL. Unfortunately for Akwa United, their struggles throughout the season ultimately led to their relegation.
Akwa United’s season was marked by inconsistencies and struggles, despite bringing in the 2021 winner of the NPFL with Akwa United, Kennedy Boboye, mid-season.
The Promise Keepers had the worst season of their existence, losing eight consecutive matches on the road. Despite a 2-0 win over Bayelsa United in their previous encounter, the team could not consolidate on it to book their place in the Nigerian top tier League next season.
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Akwa United finished the season on the 18th place in the 1. Division table. The team also recorded their worst number of most goals in all competitions for a single season. Akwa United scored: Kabir 6 goals, U. Sabastine 6 goals, Alaekwe 5 goals, Endurance 5 goals, F. Apollos 5 goals, Abson 2 goals, Acquah 1 goals, Ndon 1 goals, Enobong 1 goals, J. Ogunleye 1 goals.
Akwa United team: image credit: the Athletic images
The team played 38 matches this season. Won 12 matches 8 ended in a draw. 18 were defeated. In 28.95% matches the total goals in the match was over 2.5 goals (Over 2.5). In 65.79% matches the sum of the goals was greater than 1.5 Goals (Over 1.5). In 11 matches Akwa United has not lost the goal. In 17 games, each team scored a goal in the match.
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Heartland FC, on the other hand, managed to secure their NPFL status with a draw against Bendel Insurance in their previous game. The team had been inconsistent, failing to win in their last three matches, but managed to avoid relegation.
Akwa United has a rich history in the NPFL, having won the title in the 2020/21 season under Coach Kennedy Boboye. Their success that season was marked by an 18-match unbeaten run and a thrilling 5-2 win over MFM FC, which sealed their championship title.
Akwa United begins its journey in the NNL, and the team will look to regroup and rebuild. With a rich history and passionate fan base, Akwa United will aim to make a swift return to the NPFL.
