CAF Confederation Cup: Kwara United, Abia Warriors Stumble in First-Round Matches

CAF Confederations Cup

It was a disappointing outing for Nigerian clubs on the continental stage yesterday, as Kwara United and Abia Warriors both faltered in their CAF Confederation Cup first-round ties.

Kwara United Edge Thriller but Crash Out

In Kumasi, Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko defeated Kwara United 4-3 in a pulsating second-leg encounter. Despite scoring three away goals, the Harmony Boys fell short on aggregate, having lost crucial ground from the first leg.

Kwara United showed fighting spirit, with goals coming late to reduce the deficit, but their defense struggled to contain Kotoko’s relentless attack. The result meant their continental journey ended in heartbreak at the very first hurdle.

Head coach Kabiru Dogo admitted the defeat was painful but insisted his side would bounce back stronger in the NPFL. “We fought well, but at this level, mistakes are punished. We have to learn and grow from this,” he said.

Meanwhile, in Umuahia, Abia Warriors could only manage a 1-1 draw against Malian side Djoliba AC. The result was not enough to see them through, as they bowed out on aggregate following their earlier setback in the away leg.

Making their debut in continental competition, Abia Warriors started brightly and took the lead early in the first half. But defensive lapses allowed the visitors to equalize, silencing the home fans.

Technical Adviser Erasmus Onuh praised his team for their courage, saying: “It’s our first experience on the continent, and though we are disappointed, we have gained valuable lessons.”

The early exits of both clubs have once again raised questions about the competitiveness of Nigerian teams in CAF competitions. Analysts point to inadequate preparation, poor funding, and lack of experience as major stumbling blocks.

For fans in Ilorin and Umuahia, the results were a bitter pill to swallow, as both clubs had raised hopes of deep runs in the tournament. Attention will now turn to Nigeria’s other continental representatives to salvage national pride.