Imama Amapakabo Criticizes Referee's Late Penalty Decision in Akwa United Draw



Following Akwa United's 1-1 draw with Abia Warriors, Abia Warriors' head coach, Imama Amapakabo, voiced his concerns about the referee's decision that influenced the outcome. He stated, "Having played up to 96 minutes, the penalty in my opinion took a bit of seconds to call, and that changed the narrative of the game completely. This is how we want to sell Nigerian football to the world, and I think it is very wrong."

In the NPFL25 Matchday two game held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Abia Warriors took an early lead with a goal from Ojonugwa Adejoh in the 4th minute. Despite Akwa United’s efforts to equalize, they were only able to level the score in stoppage time with a penalty converted by Edidiong Ezekiel.

Amapakabo's remarks underscore his frustration with how the delay in the penalty decision impacted the match's result. He believes such decisions could adversely affect the reputation of Nigerian football on the global stage.

The draw means both teams shared the spoils, with Abia Warriors and Akwa United each earning a point from the encounter. As the season progresses, both teams will need to address these challenges while striving for better results and fair officiating.

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