Collins’ Goal Knocks out Rivers Utd From Naija Super 8 

Femi Solaja 

Akwa United forward Uchenna Collins’ strike in the 59th minute was the game changer that earned his side a semi-final berth as high-flying Rivers United crashed out of the Naija Super 8 tournament even with a match in hand for all the teams in Group B to play. 

The Pre-season tournament that is organised by Flykite Productions in partnership with MultiChoice Nigeria and sponsors like MTN, Hero Lager, DStv, GOtv, SuperSport, Moniepoint, Pepsi and Custodian Assurance had seen the last three match ended in a draw until Akwa United secured a vital win last night and became the first team to reach the knockout stage. 

Rivers United’s Coach Stanley Eguma, no doubt, will blame mother luck because his wards were the better side for majority of the first half, but failed to fashion a clear scoring opportunity despite enjoying majority of the possession. Lukman Adefemi came close to breaking the deadlock, but could not direct his shot on target from a tight angle.  

Akwa United who won their opening match on Saturday came out better in the second half, and scored what proved to be the match winner in the 58th minute through Uche Collins and Cyril Olisema had an opportunity to double the lead three minutes later, but put his shot wide from the edge of the six-yard box. 

The Uyo boys were able to hold on to the advantage to book the semi-final slot.

In his post-match interview, Akwa United coach, Fatai Osho, said his side can now begin to think of winning the tournament. “This victory is a good one for us and the aim was to qualify for the semi-finals and now it is time to get more from the competition by going for the cup.  

“If you are in the semi-finals, you have the chance to win, now we have the opportunity to give other players a chance to show what they can do in the last match,” he said.  

Earlier in the day, Lobi Stars and Yobe Desert Stars played out a goalless draw in a cagey encounter. The match produced little goal scoring chances, as most of the action took place in the middle of the park.  

With the results, Akwa United sits atop of Group B with six points. Lobi Stars are second with four points, Yobe Desert Stars are third with one point.  

Action resume today with a South-West derby between Sporting Lagos and Remo Stars, starting at 2pm, followed by Katsina United vs Enyimba International at 4:30pm.