Kun Khalifat FC edged Crown FC 1–0 in their 2025 NNL Super 8 Playoffs opener on Saturday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, thanks to a sixth-minute penalty from Chijioke Ahiaeke. His confident strike sent the goalkeeper the wrong way and secured the first goal of the tournament.
Amaefula Reacts: “God Will Grant Us Victory”
Kun Khalifat FC President, Mrs Onyinyechi Amaefula, expressed deep emotion and gratitude following the win. In an exclusive interview with Completesports.com, she credited divine grace and the team’s determination for the result.
“From the beginning of the season, we saw how things were going and how we kept conquering… I was confident and hopeful that we would keep conquering till the end.”
Kun Khalifat Discipline Overcomes Crown FC Pressure
Despite being out-possessed and outplayed for large spells, Kun Khalifat showed tactical discipline. Their defensive unit held firm under intense pressure from Crown FC’s well-coordinated midfield and forward play. Obinna Uzoho’s side defended with remarkable organisation and composure.
Injury Concerns for Kun Khalifat
Amaefula noted that her primary concern during the match was not the scoreline but the wellbeing of her players, with some picking up knocks that may affect squad selection ahead of Monday’s crucial game against Warri Wolves.
“My real concern wasn’t the game—it was the players. I just wanted them to hang in there and keep fighting. And they did.”
Kun Khalifat One Step From the NPFL Dream
Kun Khalifat FC will next face Warri Wolves on Monday, July 7. A win will confirm their historic promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League. Amaefula remains upbeat.
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“We started with high spirits and we’re not going to drop the tempo… Victory is surely ours.”
Ahiaeke Speaks: “I Wasn’t Afraid”
Match-winner Chijioke Ahiaeke revealed his confidence in stepping up for the spot kick and highlighted his personal goal tally this season—seven goals, including four penalties.
“It’s a privilege to score the first goal of the 2024/2025 Super 8 Tournament… I’m the team’s penalty taker and I’ve practised this over and over.”
By Sab Osuji in Asaba
