Akwa United strengthened their promotion hopes with a 1–0 victory over Sporting Lagos in their NNL Matchday 14 clash at the Uyo Township Stadium on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
The visitors started the game on the front foot, pressing high and looking to control possession in the early stages. However, Coach Paul Offor’s side gradually settled into the encounter, grew in confidence, and began to take the game to their opponents as the match progressed.
The home side created several first-half chances. In the 11th minute, Churchill Nnana headed a corner kick narrowly wide. In the 26th minute, Esonwanne Gift attempted a clever chip over the goalkeeper, but his effort was saved. Two minutes later, in the 28th minute, Daniel Gothom tested the goalkeeper with a shot from distance, which was comfortably handled. In the 30th minute, he followed up with a powerful volley, but it was blocked by a defender before the goalkeeper gathered the ball.
United were awarded a penalty after a defender handled a cross inside the box. Charles Etim stepped up in the 34th minute and calmly converted the spot kick, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to give Akwa United the lead.
In the 36th minute, Ndifreke Etim thought he had doubled the advantage when he fired the ball into the net following a goalmouth scramble. However, the goal was ruled out for an infringement in the build-up, denying the hosts a second goal before half-time.
Akwa United went into the break leading 1–0 and continued to press in the second half. In the 47th minute, Aniebiet Sunday forced a save after finding space inside the area. In the 50th minute, Ndifreke Etim dribbled past his marker before shooting, but the goalkeeper made another strong stop.
Coach Offor introduced fresh legs to maintain momentum, with Michael Okenwa and Oladimeji Dada coming on, while Yannick Menegbe also entered the game. Despite further attempts, including efforts in the 82nd and 86th minutes, the team could not add to the scoreline.
Akwa United held firm to secure a 1–0 victory.
The win moves Akwa United to 28 points from 14 matches, extending their lead at the top of NNL Conference B to four points, strengthening the Promise Keepers’ push for promotion back to the NPFL.
The Uyo Township Stadium has remained a fortress this season, with Akwa United winning seven of their eight home games at the venue and conceding just one goal. Once again, the fans turned out in large numbers, creating an electrifying atmosphere and supporting the team throughout the match.
Up next for Akwa United is an away fixture against neighbours Godswill Akpabio United FC on March 25, 2026.
