Abia Warriors began their first-ever CAF Confederation Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Mali’s Djoliba at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Sunday.
The historic moment for the Umuahia-based side came in the 21st minute when Chukwuemeka Obioma headed home to score the club’s first goal in continental football. The strike put the Warriors in control and delighted the home crowd.
However, the visitors from Mali snatched a late equaliser in the 88th minute, spoiling what could have been a famous debut victory for coach Imama Amapakabo’s team.
Speaking after the match, Amapakabo admitted his side lost focus in key moments.
“We drew the game by our subs. Possession without purpose doesn’t give results. At a point, my team started flighting the ball without winning first or second balls. The Malian team were purposeful, they knew what they wanted, and we were not returning in good numbers. We got punished,” he said.
The return leg will be played on 28 September at the Stade du 26 Mars in Bamako. The winner will advance to face either USFA of Burkina Faso or AS Gbohloe-su of Togo in the next round.