Abraysports defeated the NPFL All-Stars to retain the AMAPRO Championship.
Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO) side Abraysports defied the odds to retain their AMAPRO Football Championship title, defeating Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) All Stars 6-5 on penalties in the final.
Despite failing to win a single match in the regular season, Abraysports grabbed an early lead in the final at Kwara Football Academy.
A fortunate own goal from Hammed Yaqub put them ahead, and Olatunji Sunbomi nearly doubled their advantage in the 17th minute.
NPFL All-Stars Fight back
The second half saw a transformed NPFL All-Stars as they adjusted their tactical which gave them control of the game, with Wasiu Alalade, Godwin Oshagbemi, and Waheed Adebayo all threatening to equalize.
Gianni Infantino, FIFA president has congratulated Enugu Rangers on winning the Nigeria Premier Football League.
However, heroic goalkeeping from Akinniyi Toheeb and a touch of bad luck kept them at bay.
Late drama and penalty heroics
The fightback culminated in a deserved equaliser for NPFL All-Stars in the 65th minute, courtesy of a sublime half-volley by Issa Gata.
Rivers United was formed in 2016 as a result of the merger of two Port Harcourt-based clubs, Dolphins FC and Sharks FC.
Despite additional chances on both sides, the match remained tied, forcing a penalty shootout.
The introduction of young goalkeeper Ibrahim Karim proved decisive for Abraysports.
He justified his coach's faith by saving two crucial penalties, securing the title defense for his team.
The former Super Eagles boss Finidi George has set his sights on securing a continental ticket at Rivers United for the upcoming season but believes it will be difficult.
NPFL All Stars' Godwin Oshagbemi was named King of AMAPRO, while KFA's Uthman Tajudeen received the Prince of AMAPRO award.