NPFL: Imama Amapakabo confident about Abia Warriors Champions League qualification

By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde

The head coach of Abia Warriors, Imama Amapakabo is confident that his side can qualify for continental football at the end of the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

Their 2-0 win over Lobi Stars ensured their third place on the log with 50 points after 31 games, two behind second-placed Rivers United and 10 short of leaders Remo Stars.

While looking back at the time he led Rangers International to the league title, the former junior international exuded confidence in Abia Warriors’ charge this season.

“Rangers had gone 22 years without a league title before I led them to glory in 2016,” Amapakabo recalled.

“I believe anything is possible. You have to wake up and chase your dreams. Those who just sleep in their dreams never make them happen.

“We are here, and we don’t know what will happen next. We play Enyimba next, which is going to be an exciting game. Seven games left, 21 points to fight for—let’s see how the season ends for us.”

Sunday Megwo and Ijoma Antoine Dsouza were on target in Abia Warriors’ win over Lobi Stars, closing the gap on second-placed Rivers United.

Amapakabo has now charged his players to stay focused and fight for every remaining point.

“We are entering the final phase of the season. There are seven games left and 21 points to play for. I have told my players to keep running, don’t look back, stay focused until they cross the finish line.

“Let’s see where these seven games will take us, but with the team’s mentality right now, we believe something big is possible.”

The top two teams at the end of the season will qualify for the CAF Champions League, while the third-placed side and winner of the President Federation Cup will qualify for the CF Confederation Cup.