Otta Branch wins Nanka Champions League

By Chikaodi Chukwuleta

It was a revenge encounter at the Neros Stadium, Nanka where Otta Branch  dethroned Nkpor Branch to emerge 2022/2023 winners of the Nanka Champions League.

Otta Branch came out smoking in the first half obviously to avoid a repeat of last year when Nkpor Branch sent them to second position with a 1-0 win.

Coming to the finals with the hope of three straight win of the coveted trophy, Nkpor Branch met a stone wall in Otta as they announced their readiness to be champions with two unreplied first half goals.

Christian Nwokedi and Chisom Eze were the princes that twarted the Nkpor Branch's dream of third straight Nanka Champions League trophy.

Nkpor Branch restrategised in the second half and made some impressive moves but blunt attack saw them making no commendable attempt at goal. Otta Branch however, did not allow them roam and raid like they did last year.

Nkpor and Otta have proven to be two beautiful brides of Nanka Champions League with their sterling performance in the last three seasons.

Otta smiled home with N1.5m while Nkpor and Umuahia pocketed 900,000 and 600,000 respectively.

Individual awards were presented to deserving players who distinguished themselves during this edition of the tournament. Abuchi Okeke of Otta Branch emerged best keeper of the tournament.

Ifenna Okoye of Nkpor Branch and Ekene Asiegbu of Otta Branch were named highest goal scorer and most valuable player, respectively.

Nanka Champions League will this year celebrate 40 years of robust sponsorship by Prof. Poly Emenike, Odenigbo Nanka.