NPFL preview: Akwa United staking strong claim for the title

Akwa United are second on the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) table with 41 points from 24 games, two adrift of leaders Lobi Stars.

The Promise Keepers have so much quality and strength in midfield, a major reason they were fairly successful in the first half of the season.

Under the tutelage of Abdu Maikaba, Akwa United have been transformed into a better, much-improved team.

Twenty four games into the campaign and the Uyo outfit have gained personality and determination, key qualities for a team that aims to compete at the helm of NPFL.

Here are the players making it happen for Akwa United.

Kelly Kester

Kelly Kester has had a brilliant season so far, proving Akwa’s decision to sign him was a masterstroke. The former Shooting Stars enforcer is making fewer mistakes, is flourishing in his new role and his accuracy has tremendously improved.

Ifeanyi Ifeanyi

Ifeanyi has struck a great partnership with Kester. He has surprised everyone with his eagerness to sacrifice, as well as for his superb technique on and off the ball.

Michael Ibe

Michael Ibeh has been incredibly useful courtesy of his versatility.

He has been following Maikaba’s orders rigidly and guarantees the much-needed stability in the middle of the park while he allows both Kester and Ifeanyi to surge forward. This has also earned the holding midfielder important goals.

Aniekeme Asuquo

Aniekeme Asuquo is one of the few players in the NPFL who can skip past a sea of opposition.

The young winger has been an extra forward, showing a remarkable suitability to the playing system of Akwa. Chairman Paul Bassey and Maikaba deserve credit for this.

With the arsenal at their disposal, Akwa United’s rivals better watch out as the second half of the season resumes. The title could be on their radar.