Abia Warriors Football Club of Umuahia suffered a 2–0 defeat to Katsina United Football Club on Matchday 24 of the Nigeria Premier Football League, as second-half goals from Uche Collins sealed victory for the hosts.

 

The encounter, played at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, saw Abia Warriors extend their winless run to three matches following a disciplined first-half display that ultimately unravelled after the break.

 

Warriors’ head coach, Imama Amapakabo, made three changes to the squad that drew at home against Wikki Tourists, handing starting roles to Maxwell Kangeshima, Innocent Gabriel and Shedrack Asiegbu in place of Sunday Megwo, Innocent Godwin and Ekpere Oguocha.

 

The first half ended goalless, with both sides locked in a cagey contest and few clear-cut chances. Abia Warriors matched their hosts in intensity and organisation, frustrating Katsina United for much of the opening 45 minutes.

 

However, defensive lapses early in the second half proved costly for the visitors. In the 57th minute, the Warriors failed to properly clear a long ball, allowing Uche Collins to control possession, turn sharply, and fire home the opening goal.

 

Just three minutes later, Katsina United doubled their advantage following another defensive error. A misplaced goal-kick from the Warriors’ goalkeeper fell to Azeez Falolu, who calmly teed up Collins for a simple finish, completing his brace and putting the hosts firmly in control.

 

Despite a series of substitutions by the Abia Warriors’ technical crew in an attempt to rescue the game, Katsina United remained resolute and comfortably protected their two-goal lead until the final whistle.

 

The defeat marks a second loss in three games for the Umuahia-based side, who will now turn their attention to Matchday 25, where they are set to host Rangers International Football Club of Enugu in a highly anticipated Oriental derby.