Abakaliki FC playmaker, Eni, blames FedCup loss on missed chances

Abakaliki FC playmaker, Daniel Eni, has attributed the painful loss to Kwara United in the final match of this year’s President Federation Cup to inability to convert their chances. Kwara United defeated Abakaliki FC 4-3 via penalties on Saturday after playing goalless in regulation time at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos. The victory ended Kwara […]

Abakaliki FC playmaker, Daniel Eni, has attributed the painful loss to Kwara United in the final match of this year’s President Federation Cup to inability to convert their chances.

Kwara United defeated Abakaliki FC 4-3 via penalties on Saturday after playing goalless in regulation time at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos.

The victory ended Kwara United’s 49-year wait for a national trophy, bringing to an end Abakaliki FC’s impressive run.

The “Rice Boys” from Ebonyi State had emerged as giant-killers after accounting for the exit of four Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) sides, Katsina United, Enyimba, Nasarawa United and Ikorodu City.

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However, they were unable to keep their nerves at the most crucial moment paving the way for Kwara United to take home the coveted trophy and a ticket to represent Nigeria in next year’s CAF Confederation Cup.

In an interview with Daily Trust, Eni expressed sadness over the defeat, admitting that had they converted their chances, the story would have been different.

“Honestly, I feel sad but all the same, I give glory to God for everything that he had done for us. No injury, it was a success one.

“Football as a whole is a game of luck. We had the chances but we couldn’t convert it. It is part of the hard luck of football,” he said.

Despite the loss, Eni said he had gained experience, expressing optimism for a better performance next season.

“It was an experience, so I am very excited about it. We hope to do better next time,” he said.

The diminutive player also disclosed that some top clubs within and outside the country are interested in him.

“I am believing in God to go to Europe. That is my wish. There are so many contacts but I can’t say for now,” he said.

Meanwhile, the victorious captain, Kabiru Muhammad, has expressed his excitement, saying he was delighted to become the first captain to lift a national trophy for the club.

“In the history of Kwara United, we’ve not won any national cup before but I am excited to be the first captain to lift this cup for the club.

“I want to assure our supporters that where we stopped this season, we are going to do more next season,” he said.