Abia Warriors’ historic debut in the CAF Confederation Cup has taken a sharp twist after two of their brightest stars, Anthony Ijoma and Adejo Ojonougba, confirmed exits even before their Sunday clash against Djoliba of Mali.
The timing could hardly be worse for coach Imama Amapakabo, as the club prepares for its first-ever appearance on the continental stage.
Abia Warriors lose key stars before CAF Confederation Cup test
The Warriors will line up at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo without Super Eagles B forward Anthony Ijoma, who has sealed a three-year deal with Bosnia and Herzegovina side FK Radnik Bijeljina.
The 20-year-old was unveiled at the Bijeljina City Stadium after visa delays and his involvement in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) pushed back the transfer initially scheduled for July.
Ijoma was Abia Warriors’ joint top scorer last season, netting 12 goals that fuelled their NPFL campaign and continental qualification.
His departure strips the side of pace, creativity, and finishing instinct just as they step into unfamiliar territory.
In midfield, Adejo Ojonougba’s move to Tunisian outfit AS Marsa is another heavy blow for the Umuahia Warriors.
The dynamic playmaker scored seven goals and registered eight assists last season, making him a central figure in Amapakabo’s plans.
Can Abia Warriors Cope Without Their Creative Spark?
The twin exits mean that the Warriors will have to lean heavily on striker Sunday Megwo, who also delivered 12 goals last season, to shoulder the attacking burden against Malian giants Djoliba.
However, the club officials remain upbeat, stressing that they had prepared for such departures.
Football411 understands that the Warriors moved early in the transfer market to strengthen the squad.
New arrivals include former Enyimba forward and NPFL top scorer Emeka Obioma, Heartland’s reliable striker Suraj Lawal, and Edel FC’s promising attacker Chindi Merpring.
But the question now is whether these new arrivals can quickly adapt and deliver in the intensity of continental competition.
With history on the line, the Warriors must summon resilience, fresh chemistry, and sharp finishing to make their mark.
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