Akwa United FC of Akwa Ibom on Thursday defeated Wikki Tourists of Bauchi 1-0 in  the Federation/Aiteo Cup round of 64 played at the  University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus (UNEC) pitch.

Liman Amadu scored the only goal of the match in the 27th minute of the game to take the Akwa Ibom team to the round of 32 of the competition.

All efforts by the Bauchi team to level up failed as the Akwa United defenders were resistant at the back.

Speaking to journalists after the game, Akwa United coach, Ayodegi Ayeni faulted the Nigeria League calendar for his players average performance.

He said Nigeria’s league calendar has been difficult for players as his team played a match two days ago before coming down for the match.

“I will say the slim scoreline was part of our game plan because we instructed the players to hold it tight at the defence and the middle due to fatigue,” he said.

On his part, Wikki Tourist Coach, Gilbert Ubana, said his team  were not lucky to convert the numerous chances they had in the game.

Ubana said his team conceded the lone goal due to lose of concentration as the defenders failed to clear the ball well.

“This game has come and gone and we are going to approach our next match with Rangers with all seriousness in spite of our position on the log,” Ubana said.

(NAN)