With a decisive goal from Jibril Abdulwahab, Kogi United stunned the oddsmakers and put an end to Akwa United's run in the oldest football competition in Nigeria.
Akwa United had previously won the Aiteo Cup.
On Sunday, the game took place at the University of Nigeria, Enugu campus stadium.
According to information obtained by Naijacrawl, Kogi United advanced to the round of 16 by defeating Mighty Jets of Jos and Kanta United FC in the 64th and 32nd rounds, respectively.
John Jerome capitalized on Haruna Isah's long throw to put Kogi United in front, and they quickly took the lead.
In the second half, Kogi United was pushed back into the NPFL team's half. After determining that Kogi United player Femi Adewumi handled the ball in his box, the referee awarded a penalty kick to Akwa United. Ubong Friday made the penalty kick to tie the game for his team.
Both teams kept up the pressure on their defenses, with Akwa United having several opportunities to score. Jibril Abdulwahab didn't waste any time in regaining Kogi United's lead after receiving a pass from Nuhu Daniel on the flank.
Up until the end of the game, Kogi United maintained their lead.
Kogi United's interim coach Chidi Oji credited his team's perseverance, tenacity, and determination for the victory.
"We praise the omnipotent God for this magnificent victory. The boys gave it their all because they understood what was at risk. We have disappointed many who have written us off, but it is the Lord's doing and we praise Him for it. We'll play against the Kano Pillars in the same manner as we did today, and hopefully we'll win, " he said.
Kogi United defeated Akwa United to advance to the quarterfinals of the 2022 Aiteo Cup, where they will face Kano Pillars FC on Wednesday, August 10, 2022, at the renowned Aper Aku Stadium in Benue State.
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