Abia Warriors Technical Adviser Imama Amapakabo has blamed his side’s defensive problems on individual technical mistakes rather than tactical shortcomings following Sunday’s 3-1 victory over Plateau United.
Softfootball gathered that the former Rangers coach remains confident his team will become more consistent as the season progresses, despite conceding goals in recent matches.
Speaking after Abia Warriors secured their first three-goal haul of the campaign, Amapakabo admitted there is still plenty of work to do, particularly in eliminating costly individual errors at the back.
The former Nigerian goalkeeper pointed to the heavy defeat against Nasarawa United and Sunday’s victory over Plateau United as examples where technical lapses, rather than tactical flaws, proved decisive.
According to him, players develop technique throughout their careers, and mistakes in execution often affect the team’s overall tactical structure.
Amapakabo also stressed that Abia Warriors remain a team in transition, with more than 20 new players adapting to a new philosophy, mentality and style of play.
He likened the NPFL season to a 400-metre race, insisting his side is still in the early stages of building the consistency needed to compete with the league’s top clubs.
The experienced tactician further maintained that his side has consistently created scoring opportunities throughout the campaign, but poor finishing has prevented them from fully capitalising on their performances.
He urged his players to trust the tactical approach developed in training, warning that rushing decisions during matches often leads to avoidable mistakes.
Abia Warriors currently occupy ninth place on the NPFL table with 11 points and will face Bendel Insurance away in their next league fixture as they continue their push for consistency this season.
