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I had been in Port Harcourt for about two days, planning to return to Lagos on Friday. I had it in mind to watch the Super Eagles' AFCON 2025 qualifier match on TV in Lagos upon my return, but I suddenly remembered that the match would be played in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, which is not far from Port Harcourt.

I thought it would be a good idea to watch the match live at the stadium. It would be my first time at the stadium since it was built, and it was a great opportunity to take a proper look at it, as I’ve always only seen it on TV.

So, I arrived in Uyo from Port Harcourt, and after getting a few directions, I was able to locate the stadium. I think it was around 12 to 1 pm, and the sun was blasting—blowing hot, hot enough to boil an egg sef. I was told the stadium would be thrown open by 3 pm, but around 2:30, they opened it for fans. I presented my ticket to the first security checkpoint, then to the second security before being allowed to go in.

The stadium was nothing but a masterpiece—so beautiful and architecturally designed in the shape of a nest. Its ambience felt just like that of a European stadium. Honestly, for a moment, I felt like I was in one of those world-class European stadia. I loved the arrangement, and the security personnel and stadium workers conducted themselves professionally.

After about 30 minutes, both teams arrived at the stadium and engaged in pre-match training for about 15 to 30 minutes before heading to their locker rooms. A few minutes later, they all came out fully kitted and ready for the match. The national anthems were played for both teams before the official kickoff. A minute's silence was also observed in honour of the late wife of the Akwa Ibom State governor, who had passed away just a few days earlier. The atmosphere was solemn for that moment, but soon the excitement returned as the match began.

The game was entertaining, with Nigeria playing an attacking game, while Libya focused on a defensive strategy, relying on counter-attacks. Libya employed several delaying tactics—falling to the ground without any real cause and wasting time with the ball. Their goalkeeper, in particular, kept delaying play, which infuriated the referee, who eventually showed him a yellow card.

Nigeria kept pressing hard but struggled to break through Libya's defense, leading to some frustration. However, after a few tactical changes and substitutions by Nigeria, the game took a turn. Finally, around the 86th minute, one of the substitutes broke the deadlock and scored. The entire stadium erupted in wild celebration—the noise, the cheers, the singing—it was an incredible atmosphere. The joy and excitement of that goal made all the frustrations of the match worth it.

As I sat there, I couldn’t help but think that if five Nigerian states could have or build world-class stadiums like the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Nigeria would certainly be capable of hosting a World Cup tournament. The facilities, the passion for football, and the enthusiastic fans would make for an unforgettable event.

That's lovely

Empty seats

But they will watch EPL

I didn't even know Nigeria was playing on that day, I have lost interest in anything Nigeria.



The super eagles or whatever they're called should expect hostility in Libya, north African teams are so annoying most especially when they're playing at home......If you allow them score first you're finished, their delay tactics is always frustrating.

illicit:
Empty seats

But they will watch EPL

It’s true that the stadium wasn’t packed initially, but as the match went on, more people showed up, and it became partially filled. One of the fans mentioned that the empty seats were likely due to the fact that tickets weren’t free. They said that the last time the tickets were free, the stadium was filled to capacity. Looks like the pricing made a big difference!

Bahamas95:
I didn't even know Nigeria was playing on that day, I have lost interest in anything Nigeria.



The super eagles or whatever they're called should expect hostility in Libya, north African teams are so annoying most especially when they're playing at home......If you allow them score first you're finished, their delay tactics is always frustrating.

I get what you're saying about North African teams, especially with their frustrating tactics when they’re playing. But I think Nigeria just needs a draw in Libya to qualify for the 2025 AFCON. Let’s hope the Super Eagles can handle the pressure and get the job done on Tuesday!

Gistmedia10:
I had been in Port Harcourt for about two days, planning to return to Lagos on Friday. I had it in mind to watch the Super Eagles' AFCON 2025 qualifier match on TV in Lagos upon my return, but I suddenly remembered that the match would be played in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, which is not far from Port Harcourt.

I thought it would be a good idea to watch the match live at the stadium. It would be my first time at the stadium since it was built, and it was a great opportunity to take a proper look at it, as I’ve always only seen it on TV.

So, I arrived in Uyo from Port Harcourt, and after getting a few directions, I was able to locate the stadium. I think it was around 12 to 1 pm, and the sun was blasting—blowing hot, hot enough to boil an egg sef. I was told the stadium would be thrown open by 3 pm, but around 2:30, they opened it for fans. I presented my ticket to the first security checkpoint, then to the second security before being allowed to go in.

The stadium was nothing but a masterpiece—so beautiful and architecturally designed in the shape of a nest. Its ambience felt just like that of a European stadium. Honestly, for a moment, I felt like I was in one of those world-class European stadia. I loved the arrangement, and the security personnel and stadium workers conducted themselves professionally.

After about 30 minutes, both teams arrived at the stadium and engaged in pre-match training for about 15 to 30 minutes before heading to their locker rooms. A few minutes later, they all came out fully kitted and ready for the match. The national anthems were played for both teams before the official kickoff. A minute's silence was also observed in honour of the late wife of the Akwa Ibom State governor, who had passed away just a few days earlier. The atmosphere was solemn for that moment, but soon the excitement returned as the match began.

The game was entertaining, with Nigeria playing an attacking game, while Libya focused on a defensive strategy, relying on counter-attacks. Libya employed several delaying tactics—falling to the ground without any real cause and wasting time with the ball. Their goalkeeper, in particular, kept delaying play, which infuriated the referee, who eventually showed him a yellow card.

Nigeria kept pressing hard but struggled to break through Libya's defense, leading to some frustration. However, after a few tactical changes and substitutions by Nigeria, the game took a turn. Finally, around the 86th minute, one of the substitutes broke the deadlock and scored. The entire stadium erupted in wild celebration—the noise, the cheers, the singing—it was an incredible atmosphere. The joy and excitement of that goal made all the frustrations of the match worth it.

As I sat there, I couldn’t help but think that if five Nigerian states could have or build world-class stadiums like the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Nigeria would certainly be capable of hosting a World Cup tournament. The facilities, the passion for football, and the enthusiastic fans would make for an unforgettable event.

..
Thank Godd they scored one..
Atlest better than non

Just imagine they lose

Those who don't attend live league matches in Nigeria don't really know what they are missing. It is always a big fun; especially when you go to the match venue in group.

It's always fun watching live matches even if na dead league games

Nigeria still dey una mind? Me I duh lost interest

dkidd:
It's always fun watching live matches even if na dead league games

Live matches are extremely exciting. Even an ordinary street football is always fun to watch.

How much for d ticket??

akwaibom ayaya.

Its always good to support 9ja and watch them win

dkidd:
It's always fun watching live matches even if na dead league games

D only disadvantage is, no replay. When u miss, u miss

.

Gistmedia10:
I had been in Port Harcourt for about two days, planning to return to Lagos on Friday. I had it in mind to watch the Super Eagles' AFCON 2025 qualifier match on TV in Lagos upon my return, but I suddenly remembered that the match would be played in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, which is not far from Port Harcourt.

I thought it would be a good idea to watch the match live at the stadium. It would be my first time at the stadium since it was built, and it was a great opportunity to take a proper look at it, as I’ve always only seen it on TV.

So, I arrived in Uyo from Port Harcourt, and after getting a few directions, I was able to locate the stadium. I think it was around 12 to 1 pm, and the sun was blasting—blowing hot, hot enough to boil an egg sef. I was told the stadium would be thrown open by 3 pm, but around 2:30, they opened it for fans. I presented my ticket to the first security checkpoint, then to the second security before being allowed to go in.

The stadium was nothing but a masterpiece—so beautiful and architecturally designed in the shape of a nest. Its ambience felt just like that of a European stadium. Honestly, for a moment, I felt like I was in one of those world-class European stadia. I loved the arrangement, and the security personnel and stadium workers conducted themselves professionally.

After about 30 minutes, both teams arrived at the stadium and engaged in pre-match training for about 15 to 30 minutes before heading to their locker rooms. A few minutes later, they all came out fully kitted and ready for the match. The national anthems were played for both teams before the official kickoff. A minute's silence was also observed in honour of the late wife of the Akwa Ibom State governor, who had passed away just a few days earlier. The atmosphere was solemn for that moment, but soon the excitement returned as the match began.

The game was entertaining, with Nigeria playing an attacking game, while Libya focused on a defensive strategy, relying on counter-attacks. Libya employed several delaying tactics—falling to the ground without any real cause and wasting time with the ball. Their goalkeeper, in particular, kept delaying play, which infuriated the referee, who eventually showed him a yellow card.

Nigeria kept pressing hard but struggled to break through Libya's defense, leading to some frustration. However, after a few tactical changes and substitutions by Nigeria, the game took a turn. Finally, around the 86th minute, one of the substitutes broke the deadlock and scored. The entire stadium erupted in wild celebration—the noise, the cheers, the singing—it was an incredible atmosphere. The joy and excitement of that goal made all the frustrations of the match worth it.

As I sat there, I couldn’t help but think that if five Nigerian states could have or build world-class stadiums like the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Nigeria would certainly be capable of hosting a World Cup tournament. The facilities, the passion for football, and the enthusiastic fans would make for an unforgettable event.

Like or hate Akpabio he is still Akwa ibom state best governor.

He stole money but he did a good job in Akwa ibom in infrastructure.

A305:
It's a newly built beautiful stadium but sadly Nigeria lack maintenance culture. I give that stadium 7 years to see what becomes of it.

Abuja stadium was once the most advanced and most beautiful stadium in Nigeria.

That stadium is more than 7 years old

A305:
It's a newly built beautiful stadium but sadly Nigeria lack maintenance culture. I give that stadium 7 years to see what becomes of it.

Abuja stadium was once the most advanced and most beautiful stadium in Nigeria.

It is 10 years old and has its management company I guess.

This stadium has really showcased Aks. I still remember going to watch super eagles matches 10, 11 years ago, in calabar

Gistmedia10:
It’s true that the stadium wasn’t packed initially, but as the match went on, more people showed up, and it became partially filled. One of the fans mentioned that the empty seats were likely due to the fact that tickets weren’t free. They said that the last time the tickets were free, the stadium was filled to capacity. Looks like the pricing made a big difference!

How much is the ticket?

illicit:
Empty seats

But they will watch EPL

What do you expect in this Tinubulation time?

Lovely experience

Thanks for sharing.

Nigerians love Nigeria but our politicians are the issue

Beautiful

Beautiful experience