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“We Struggled Against Crown, But It Was To Protect Our Goal” – Coach Obinna Uzoho
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Obinna Uzoho, Head Coach of Kun Khalifat FC, has acknowledged that his team faced a stern test from Crown FC in Saturday’s opening fixture of the 2024/2025 Nigeria National League (NNL) Super 8 Tournament in Asaba. Despite the pressure, Kun Khalifat held on to a narrow 1-0 victory, thanks to a well-taken penalty by Ahiake Chijioke.
Crown FC started the match on the front foot, dominating the early exchanges. However, their momentum was halted when goalkeeper Joshua Oladeji conceded a penalty after a clumsy challenge inside the box. Chijioke stepped up and converted confidently to give Kun Khalifat the lead.
Though Crown FC maintained their intensity throughout, they lacked cutting edge in the final third, while Kun Khalifat dug deep to protect their slender advantage until the final whistle.
Speaking at a post-match press conference, Coach Uzoho defended his team’s pragmatic approach, emphasizing the importance of securing the win.
“It wasn’t that we couldn’t match their pace. Yes, we struggled, but that was to ensure we defended our one-goal lead,” Uzoho said. “This is no longer the regular league where you draw and look for points elsewhere. We needed to protect our lead, and we did just that.”
When asked whether the ultra-defensive setup was the right call, Uzoho didn’t hesitate in his response.
“For me, in this kind of game, yes, it’s okay,” he affirmed.
Despite the gritty nature of the win, the young tactician remains optimistic ahead of their next group stage encounter.
“We’re going to play against Warri Wolves, and I’m sure we’re going to win,” Uzoho said confidently.
Kun Khalifat FC will hope to build on this hard-fought victory as they continue their push for promotion to the top flight.
