Defending champions Remo Stars FC suffered another blow in their battle to retain their Nigeria Premier Football League status after being held to a 1 1 draw by Abia Warriors FC in Akure.
Playing at yet another temporary home ground, Remo began brightly and dominated early exchanges but failed to convert their chances. Victor Mbaoma was central to their attacking efforts, earning a foul after latching onto a through ball and combining well with Alex Oyowah in search of an opener. Kovan Albert also threatened before being replaced by Samson Olasupo before halftime, with the first half ending goalless.
Abia Warriors returned from the break with renewed intensity. Their persistence paid off in the 54th minute when former league top scorer Chukwuemeka Obioma clinically broke the deadlock to stun the home crowd.
Remo pushed for a response, introducing Qudus Akanni to add attacking impetus. Michael Ibe came close with a long range strike before substitute Olasupo restored parity in the 78th minute with a composed finish, reigniting hope among the Sky Blue Stars faithful.
Despite late pressure, Remo were unable to find a winner. The result leaves them 19th on the table with 27 points from 26 matches, just two points above bottom placed Kun Khalifat FC in what has turned into a troubled title defence.
With 12 matches remaining and eight to be played away from their traditional Ikenne ground due to a stadium ban, Remo’s survival prospects appear increasingly uncertain. The club’s season has been marked by instability, moving between Abeokuta, Ibadan, Benin, and now Akure.
Abia Warriors, meanwhile, consolidate their push for continental qualification, sitting fifth with 40 points from 26 matches.
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