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Redemption or scandal? Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George's first win in weeks was marred by controversial decisions.
Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George celebrated a much-needed victory as his team, Rivers United, ended a four-match winless streak in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a controversial 1-0 win over Abia Warriors.
This match, held in Port Harcourt, was marked by contentious officiating that left Abia's coach, Imama Amapakabo, visibly frustrated on Sunday evening.
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10:16 - 11.11.2024
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United entered the match seeking redemption after a series of disappointing results, including back-to-back losses and a goalless draw against Remo Stars.
The team had not secured a win in their previous four outings and was desperate to reclaim their form.
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The first half of the match was uneventful, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm.
However, the game took a decisive turn in the second half when Ndifreke Effiong, who had just been substituted in, converted a penalty kick awarded in the 58th minute.
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This goal proved to be the match-winner and lifted Rivers United back to the top of the NPFL standings with 23 points from 13 matches.
The penalty decision was hotly contested by Abia Warriors' players and coaching staff, who were left aggrieved and shocked.
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Coach Amapakabo expressed his dissatisfaction with the officiating, questioning two key moments in the match:
“Let’s discuss the incident before the end of the first half - was it a penalty? Let us also discuss the first 10 minutes of the second half, was it a penalty? These are questions that I need to ask after reviews of these situations”.
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Despite the controversy surrounding the match, Rivers United's victory marks a significant turnaround for Finidi George's side.
The win not only halted their winless run but also restored their position at the top of the league table, while Abia Warriors fell to 15th place
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