AITEO Cup winners Akwa United continued their impressive buildup to the new Nigeria Professional League season by reaching the semi-final stage of the pre-season tournament, Ahlan Cup in Kano.
United AITEO Cup final hero, Gabriel Okechukwu scored as they drew their last group game against Wikki Tourists on Wednesday, a 1-1 draw at the Kano Pillars Stadium to confirm their leadership position in Group B of the 12-team tournament.
Abdu Maikaba’s side had drawn against Enyimba and Katsina United but also defeated Yobe Desert Stars and Nasarawa United in what has been a roller-coaster tournament for them.
The Promise Keepers will now face El-Kanemi Warriors in the semi finals after Imama Amapakabo’s men finished second behind hosts Kano Pillars in Group A. Warriors defeated league champions Plateau United 3-1 in their final group game on Wednesday at the Sani Abacha Stadium while Pillars defeated Niger Tornadoes 1-0.
Two-time African Champions Enyimba failed to qualify from Akwa’s group after Paul Aigbogun’s men drew four of their five group games, including three goalless outings. Hosts Kano Pillars will face Katsina United in their semi-final clash at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Friday before the contest between Akwa United and El-Kanemi at the Kano Pillars Stadium on Saturday.
Final and third place match will hold on Sunday at SAS, Kofarmata.
