Debutants Abia Warriors Eliminated From CAF Confederation Cup After Loss In Bamako

Abia Warriors’ maiden adventure in continental football has ended prematurely after they were knocked out of the 2025 CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round by Malian side Djoliba AC.

The Nigerian side had managed a 1-1 draw in the first leg played in Umuahia, raising hopes of progressing on their debut appearance in Africa’s second-tier club competition. However, the decisive second leg in Bamako proved too difficult, as Djoliba capitalized on home advantage to claim a 1-0 victory, sealing a 2-1 aggregate win.

Despite spirited efforts from the Umuahia-based club, they struggled to find a breakthrough against a more experienced Djoliba side that has featured consistently in CAF competitions. The Malian outfit’s defensive discipline and quick counterattacks proved decisive in keeping Abia Warriors at bay.

‎For Abia Warriors, the result is a disappointment after what had been a historic moment for the club and their fans, who had looked forward to making an impression on the continental stage. Their elimination means Nigeria’s representation in the competition has now been reduced further, with Kwara United also crashing out in the same round.

‎The early exit will serve as a tough lesson for the Abia Warriors, whose focus will now shift back to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) campaign, as they seek to build on their domestic progress and possibly earn another shot at continental football in the future.