Abia Warriors were held to a 1–1 draw by Mali’s Djoliba AC in their historic CAF Confederation Cup debut, played on Sunday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

 

Making their maiden appearance in continental football, the Umu Chineke Boys started brightly and looked the more composed side in the first half. Their early pressure paid off in the 20th minute, when Emeka Obioma etched his name into the club’s history books by scoring their first-ever goal in CAF competition — a powerful header off Jubrin Faiz’s pinpoint cross.

 

Abia Warriors nearly doubled their lead in the 39th minute when Sunday Megwo found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper but lifted his chip just wide, much to the disappointment of the home crowd.

 

The tide shifted in the second half as Djoliba AC, seasoned veterans in continental competitions, began to impose themselves. Their persistence was rewarded in the 87th minute, when Kardel Kenan Armel fired home an equaliser from close range after a defensive lapse.

 

Stunned by the late goal, Abia Warriors pushed forward in search of a winner during the closing moments, but the Malians stood firm to earn a valuable away draw.

 

Despite the result, there were positives for Coach Bethel Oji’s side, who showed moments of flair and control, particularly in the first half.

 

The return leg is scheduled for September 28, 2025, at the Mamadou Konaté Stadium in Bamako, where Abia Warriors will need a stronger second-half showing and a winning mindset to advance to the next round.