Bayelsa United staged a dramatic comeback to edge Akwa United 2-1 in a tightly contested NPFL Matchday 17 encounter at the Samson Siasia Stadium.
Team Lineups:
Coach Ladan Bosso stuck with a familiar starting XI for The Prosperity Boys, featuring Godgift Elkanah, Issa Yusuf, Hassan Oladimeji, Jawad Mustapha, Ogundare Arise, Gabriel Biriduba, Auwal Sadiq, Wisdom Magbisa, Emo James, Simon Daniel, and Rabiu Abdulahi.
Akwa United’s starting lineup included Hakeem Otuyiga, Charles Etim, Paschal Onunze, Ubong Essien, Wisdom Ndon, Endurance Ebedebiri, Osoba Kabir, Samuel Matthew, Chijioke Alaekwe, Seyi Oguntayo, and Paul Acquah.
Match Summary:
Bayelsa United began on the back foot, allowing Akwa United plenty of possession. Rabiu Abdulahi registered the home sideโs first chance with a blocked header in the 10th minute.
The Promise Keepers capitalized on defensive lapses to take the lead in the 23rd minute, with Chijioke Alaekwe finishing from close range after a right-wing cross went uncleared. Akwa United almost doubled their lead five minutes later, but Godgift Elkanahโs crucial save kept Bayelsa United in the game. Jawad Mustapha missed a golden chance to equalize in the 38th minute, firing wide from a promising position.
Bayelsa United eventually drew level in the 41st minute through birthday boy Auwal Sadiq, who slotted home after Simon Danielโs unselfish assist, following a dazzling run by Hassan Oladimeji.
The second half saw Bayelsa United struggle with decision-making in the final third until coach Bosso introduced Yahaya Ibrahim and Foluwa Akpokabowei for Rabiu Abdulahi and Emo James.
The substitutions paid off in the 80th minute when Foluwa’s initial effort was parried but he quickly crossed for Yahaya, who calmly headed home the winner, sparking wild celebrations among the home supporters.
Final Standings:
The win lifts Bayelsa United to 8th place, while Akwa United remain rooted to the bottom of the table.
Next Fixtures:
Bayelsa United travel to Ikenne to face Remo Stars, while Akwa United host Heartland United in their next match.
This article was packaged by Ebi Appah.
