Godswill Akpabio United FC have won the 2026 Ibom Preseason Tournament after defeating Akwa United 5-4 on penalties following a goalless draw in regulation time at the Uyo Township Stadium on Saturday.
Akpabio United secured the title despite playing with ten men from around the middle of the first half after one of their players was sent off.
Both teams battled hard during the final but could not find a goal in regulation time, forcing the contest to be decided by a penalty shootout.
The shootout ended 5-4 in favour of Godswill Akpabio United, handing Edward Green’s side the tournament trophy.
Akwa United had reached the final after defeating Abia Comets 2-0 in the semi-finals, while Godswill Akpabio United booked their place after overcoming Rovers FC on penalties.
The final was a repeat of their earlier meeting in the competition, where Godswill Akpabio United had claimed a narrow 1-0 victory over Akwa United.
The tournament provided both teams with an opportunity to test their players and prepare for the upcoming Nigeria National League (NNL) season.
For Godswill Akpabio United, the victory provides a boost ahead of the new campaign, while Akwa United will look to build on the lessons from the competition as they continue preparations for their promotion push.
