Imama Amapakabo says only a win over unbeaten Rivers United will keep his side in the title conversation.
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Amapakabo’s must-win call
Abia Warriors head coach Imama Amapakabo says his team must beat Rivers United on Sunday to close the gap at the top of the 2026/27 NPFL table. The Umuahia-based side host Rivers United in a Matchday 8 fixture at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba, with kick-off at 4pm. FootballInNigeria.com.ng reports that Amapakabo wants a statement in the title race.
Rivers United, last season’s runners up, are yet to lose this campaign. They sit second with 15 points, one behind defending champions Rangers International.
Amapakabo said the unbeaten run is extra motivation for his players. He called it another three points to grab, no different in importance from any other league game.
Eight points from seven
Abia Warriors have taken just eight points from their first seven games, and Amapakabo says the leaders have opened an eight-point gap. Fans following the title race can read how to use the Bet9ja promotion code before the weekend.
He said the club must close that gap to make a commanding statement in the league. He added that it is a league season, so wins are what matter.
Learning from the Rangers defeat
Abia Warriors lost 3-1 to Rangers International in the derby in Awka last Sunday. Faiz Jubrim was sent off in the 81st minute, but Amapakabo said the red card was not the biggest problem.
In his words, the team did not function well defensively, and the coaches have worked on it. He said the side lacks the cover it wants in transition and is conceding goals that hurt, but he stressed that the players are learning every day.
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Tactics against a tough opponent
Amapakabo accepts that Rivers United are strong defensively and dangerous on the counter-attack. He said his team would play to their strengths but change their approach, looking at what works for them.
The coach, a former Sharks goalkeeper, led Rangers International to the 2015/16 NPFL title. He urged supporters to keep believing and keep the faith alive.
NPFL fans who like to forecast scores can enter the Super9ja prediction contest before Sunday’s games.
Can the Warriors turn a poor start into a real title chase? Sunday gives them a first big chance.
📌 Did You Know?
- Rangers International lead the table with 16 points.
- Rangers’ media team mocked Abia Warriors after the derby with a message thanking them for “donating” the three points.
- The Enyimba International Stadium in Aba is the home of Enyimba, and Abia Warriors also use it for their home games.
- Eight NPFL games are scheduled for 4pm on Sunday, October 11.
- Rangers play away to Barau FC on the same day.
