Two-time champions Akwa United have crashed out of the 2022 Aiteo Cup following their 1-2 loss to Nigeria National League side Kogi United in the final last-16 game on Sunday.

The Promise Keepers found themselves trailing in the first minute of the game as John Jerome slotted home from close range.

Ayodeji Ayeni’s team finally found the equaliser they were desperate for as captain Ubong Friday converted from 12 yards out after Femi Adewumi handled Bello Babatunde’s cross in the penalty area.

However, the Kogi club sent shockwaves as they netted late through forward Abdulwahab Jubril to send the Uyo club packing.

Elsewhere, 2019 champions Kano Pillars comfortably saw off DMD FC of Maiduguri.

Sai Masu Gida secured the victory thanks to goals from captain Rabiu Ali and Kabiru Sanusi.

Nasarawa United continued their journey to move a step further after losing in the final last year as they defeated Bendel Insurance 2-1 in Aba.

Sunday Okereke’s double helped the Lafia club book their place in the quarter-final.

Niger Tornadoes also secured their ticket to join the final eight as they defeated Green Beret thanks to Jonas Emmanuel’s lone goal in Abuja.

Heartland FC of Owerri needed a 5-4 penalty shootout victory to edge Dakkada FC after a 1-1 regulation scoreline in Asaba.

Wikki Tourists also needed a 5-4 penalty shootout triumph to see off Elkanemi Warriors.

It was also a sad day for the duo of teams from Ondo State as Akure City Academy and Sunshine Stars were sent packing by Lobi Stars and Katsina United respectively.

Aiteo Cup last-16 results in full

Saturday, August 6, 2022

Niger Tornadoes 1-0 Green Beret
Heartland FC 1-1 [5-4] Dakkada FC
Lobi Stars 1-0 Akure City Academy
Nasarawa United 2-1 Bendel Insurance
Wikki Tourists 0-0 [5-4] Elkanemi Warriors
Katsina United 1-1 [5-3] Sunshine Stars
Kano Pillars 2-0 DMD FC

Sunday, August 7, 2022

Akwa United 1-2 Kogi United