Abia Warriors Football Club of Umuahia are through to the quarter finals of the on-going President Federation Cup following a pulsating penalty shout-out win over Kwara United of Ilorin in Ikenne.
The round of 16 tie had ended 1-1 after regulation time but the Pride of Abia had to rely on the lottery of penalty shoot out to overcome a stubborn Kwara United side.
Emmanuel Ogbole had put Kwara United in front in the 41st minute, but Abia Warriors responded three minutes later, with Paschal Nwabueze sending a through pass to Sunday Megwo to hit the ball beyond the on-rushing goalkeeper for the equalizer and his 6th President Federation Cup goal.
First half ended all square and as the second stanza began both sides played with more caution but it was Abia Warriors goalkeeper, Ali Ishaku who was called into action on a few occasions, and he did not disappoint, as he made super saves to ensure the scoreline remained even.
With no more goals, after regulation time and added time, penalty shout-out became inevitable and the Umuahia Landlords prevailed.
After five spot kicks were taken by both sides, Kwara United missed two, the first came off the upright while Abia Warriors keeper, Ali Ishaku saved the other.
On their own, Abia Warriors’ Sagir Musa was the only one that missed his kick but his colleagues, Prince Okorie, Collins Nwoburuoke, Arinze Ogbonna and Sunday Megwo made up for him as they converted their kicks to see Abia Warriors through the last eight.
