Abia Comets FC of Umuahia began their 2024/25 Nigeria National League (NNL) campaign with a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over Edel FC in a Southern Conference A Matchday 1 clash on Sunday at the Awka Township Stadium, Anambra State.

The hosts, Edel FC, struck early through Tuoyo Pippah, who opened the scoring in the 11th minute. However, Abia Comets staged a spirited second-half comeback to claim all three points.

In the 60th minute, Chinaza Miracle leveled the score, displaying exceptional skill as he weaved past two Edel defenders before calmly slotting the ball home. Okechukwu Chukwu provided the assist for the equalizer.

Second-half substitute Emeka Maduka sealed the win in the 75th minute with a brilliant close-range finish off a perfectly weighted assist from Ikenna Ogbonna. The goal, celebrated for its precision and execution, is already being regarded as a standout moment from the weekend’s fixtures.

Head coach Okechukwu Ejeh lauded his team’s resilience and tactical response after a shaky start:
“I’m happy with the performance of the team. It was a difficult game but a well-deserved three points, especially because of how we played in the second half. We started slowly, but after going behind, we brought in fresh legs and took control. We’ll keep working hard to improve as a team in the upcoming games.”

Abia Comets will look to maintain their momentum when they host Lagos-based 1472 FC in a Matchday 2 showdown on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at the Umuahia Township Stadium.

The victory marks a strong start for the Comets, who are determined to make a statement in this season’s NNL campaign.