Akwa United FC defeated First Bank FC 2-0 on Sunday, March 1, 2026, to extend their lead at the top of the NNL Conference B table.
Akwa United had earlier beaten First Bank 3-1 away in Lagos in the reverse fixture, completing the double with this latest victory.
The home side started strongly at the Uyo Township Stadium. In the fifth minute, Emmanuel Charles controlled the ball well inside the box but his weak shot was saved by the goalkeeper. Nsikak Raphael also tried his luck from outside the area in the 10th minute, but his effort was blocked by a defender.
Paulinus Okon led several attacks in the first half, combining well with Daniel Gothom and Aniebiet Sunday, but could not find the final touch. Emmanuel Charles came close in first-half stoppage time, but his shot went just wide. The first half ended goalless.
Akwa United returned after the break with more purpose. Aniebiet Sunday and Emmanuel Charles both missed good chances before the breakthrough finally arrived in the 63rd minute. Yannick Menegbe delivered a fine cross into the box and Paulinus Okon rose highest to head the ball into the net.
Okon doubled the lead in the 75th minute to complete his brace and take his tally to four goals this season. He almost scored a third goal but his long-range effort missed the target.
The win was Akwa United’s eighth of the season and moved them four points clear at the top of the NNL Conference B table after 12 matches. They now have six matches left to play and will travel to face Osun United on matchday 13.
Speaking after the match, Coach Paul Offor expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance. He said:
“I am happy with the progress we are making. Today’s win was not a late winner or a narrow one-goal victory, which shows we are improving. We are also developing ways to break down opponents who sit back and defend. In the second half, we were able to open them up, create more space, and get our goals.”
He added: “From this point forward, every game we play is a final for us. We will approach each match with this mentality. If we want to secure promotion, we must ensure that after every matchday we remain on top of the league table.”
On Paulinus Okon, the two-goal hero of the match, Offor said:
“Paulinus is a brilliant player. Even with his skill on the ball, he still has the energy to cover the ground and help the team. We are very happy with his performance this season. Every time he is on the field, we know something special can happen, which is why we try to keep him playing as long as possible. His First Class degree shows he is hardworking, and that dedication shows in his game.”
Offor also confirmed the absence of striker Michael Okenwa, explaining:
“Michael was released to attend his mother’s funeral. He will return to the squad on Monday.”
He praised the fans for their support, saying:
“We love our supporters. We always give our best to perform well for them, and we encourage them to keep coming out to push us so we can achieve our target together.”
Paulinus Okon was named Man of the Match and received his award at full time from Ibom Air officials at the stadium.
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