Abia Warriors have a challenging return leg ahead in Bamako following their 1-1 draw with Djoliba AC in the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary round at Uyo. The Malian side snagged a late equaliser, putting the pressure squarely on the Nigerian debutants.
Coach Imama Amapakabo admitted that the result has left his team in a “very bad situation,” especially because a goalless draw in the second leg will not be enough they must score in Mali to have any realistic chance of progressing.
Despite dominating possession and creating opportunities in Uyo, Abia Warriors were punished for failing to close out the game Djoliba’s experience at continental competitions showed when it counted.
Amapakabo also reflected on his squad’s lack of big-stage ‘continental’ experience, believing this showed in key moments late in the match. But he remains optimistic, insisting that the tie is still alive and that his team can respond with a strong performance in the second leg.
Editorial
We believe this tie with Djoliba embodies one of football’s classic tests experience versus ambition. Abia Warriors, though enthusiastic and energetic, are learning the perils of continental football where conceding late can shift the entire dynamic and psychological edge in a tie. The late goal by Djoliba is a gap that Abia must now overcome under tougher conditions away from home.
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Scoring away in Bamako will be pivotal. It’s not just about being brave in attack it means being tactically sharp, disciplined, and mentally resilient. Abia Warriors must avoid errors, maintain structure, and show composure under pressure, especially since Djoliba will leverage home support and their familiarity with such settings.
Yet, we do not write them off. Their performance in Uyo showed promise dominance, creating chances, and moments suggesting they can trouble Djoliba. If Amapakabo gets his substitutions, tactics, and mental prep right, there is bedrock for belief. What the Warriors lack in continental experience they can compensate with hunger, team spirit, and tactical edge.
We expect the return leg to be intense. Nigeria’s clubs have suffered many tight losses when away goals slip into the mix. Abia Warriors’ task is tough but not impossible. The match in Bamako is theirs to define—and if they respond with courage and focus, they may yet overturn the odds.
Did You Know?
- This was Abia Warriors’ maiden appearance in the CAF Confederation Cup.
- Djoliba AC of Mali have a long continental pedigree: numerous appearances in CAF competitions over many decades.
- The late equaliser by Djoliba came in the 88th minute, which means Abia Warriors had almost conceded victory in Uyo.
- A goalless draw in Bamako will not suffice for Abia Warriors, because the away goal rule now makes scoring away essential.
- Abia Warriors have trained on synthetic (astro) turf in Aba to prepare for Bamako’s surface and environmental conditions.
