Aba South Local Government Area has claimed the inaugural Abia Soccer Fest title after edging out Ukwa West Local Government Area 2-1 on penalties in Wednesday’s final held in Aba.
The keenly contested match at the Enyimba International Stadium finished 1-1 after regulation time before Aba South secured victory through a penalty shootout.
Favour Ogwo opened the scoring for Aba South in the 20th minute, while Christian Chiemezie restored parity for Ukwa West with an 82nd-minute equaliser.
Reacting after the encounter, Abia Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, praised the organisers for successfully hosting the tournament.
He reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to sports growth in the state and commended all participating teams for their efforts throughout the competition.
According to him, every one of the 17 local government teams deserves recognition for contributing to the success of the maiden edition, despite only one side lifting the trophy.
In his remarks, the state Director of Sports, Obioma George, described the final as highly entertaining, noting that both teams displayed quality football.
George stated that penalty shootouts are often unpredictable, but Aba South made the most of the opportunity to emerge victorious.
He encouraged other local government teams to intensify preparations ahead of future editions of the tournament.
The sports director also expressed optimism that several talents discovered during the competition possess the ability to progress to the Nigeria Premier Football League, adding that the tournament had created greater exposure and opportunities for grassroots players.