Akwa United searches for continental ticket to Makurdi

Reigning champions, Akwa United, are sure of overcoming Sunshine Stars in their quest to retain the Federation Cup title they won last year in Lagos. The Uyo-based club have been on the upward swing since the second half of the season began, but they are not satisfied with their position on the league alone.

Officials of the team are optimistic that their current form buoyed by the financial and moral support from Governor Emmanuel Udom will propel them to victory over Sunshine Stars when they meet in the Federation Cup round of 16 next week.

Akwa United were the first club to fulfill the conditions stipulated by the LMC for participation in the second half of the league, a feat club chairman, Paul Bassey, credits to the financial support by Governor Udom. The improved welfare for players and officials, according to Bassey, has been the catalyst for success and that ‘is what we will take to Makurdi.’

Bassey paid glowing tribute to Governor Udom for given him massive support in the discharge of his duties.

“I also thank my commissioner, Sir Monday Uko, for standing by me. The only way we can reward them is by returning to Africa,” he said.

Aside finishing among the first three clubs in the NPFL, retaining the Federation Cup will also put Akwa United in the continent.

In other Federation Cup round of 16 fixtures, Rivers United will battle with Shooting Stars of Ibadan in Kaduna, while Wikki Tourists of Bauchi will confront Plateau United in Akure, just as FC IfeanyiUbah will take on Katsina United at the Kwara Sports Complex, Ilorin.

Enugu Rangers will test might with Crown FC of Ogbomosho at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, Warri Wolves will trade tackles with Prime FC of Oshogbo in Makurdi, while Nasarawa United will lock horns with Dynamite FC of Benin in Lokoja.