Abakaliki FC Head Coach, Starplus Izuikem Anistar, has exclusively told Completesports.com that the Rice Boys’ 1-0 win against Akwa United at the weekend confirms their escape from relegation, as it ensures they will remain in the Nigeria National League (NNL) for the 2026/2027 season.
Man-of-the-match, Nwankwo Chigozie’s exquisite strike of outstanding quality 20 minutes before the final whistle proved decisive, as Abakaliki FC moved to 25 points and away from the relegation zone in Conference B.
With 25 points, Abakaliki FC are now safe from relegation, even with one round of matches remaining before the close of the season.
Abakaliki FC Coach Reflects On Crucial Victory
“It would have been bad if we had lost that game,” Coach Anistar began on Tuesday afternoon when Completesports.com contacted him.
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“We would have been battling relegation until the final match. We needed a win against Akwa United to be certain of remaining in a safe position going into the last game of the season away to Calabar Rovers.
“Now, we can go to the Rovers game confident of retaining our NNL status next season, irrespective of the result.”
The Rice Boys Eyes Calm Finish Against Calabar Rovers
Calabar Rovers have two games in hand away to Ekiti United and Sporting Lagos before the final match of the season against Abakaliki FC.
Rovers will need at least three points from those two away fixtures before the season-ending home clash against Abakaliki FC.
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“It will be a crucial game for Calabar Rovers against us, but it will depend on the outcome of their two away games before the match,” Coach Anistar added.
Anistar Targets Stronger Abakaliki FC Next Season
Coach Anistar took charge of the team following the departure of former Head Coach, Ifeanyi Onyedika, MON, who exited the club after two games into the season.
He disclosed that preparations for next season will begin early, while expressing optimism for an improved Abakaliki FC side.
“We will conduct a thorough screening and pre-season camping, bringing in young players and helping them understand our philosophy before the new season kicks off,” Coach Anistar said.
By Sab Osuji
