ISBAT University head coach Haumba Edwin has urged his team to find their form as they prepare for a crucial match against IUIU in the Pepsi University Football League.
Following a disappointing start to the season, ISBAT finds itself at the bottom of the table, having lost all three of their opening games without scoring a goal and conceding five.
“We need to cover ourselves, but it seems to be late. However, a win would do us much better as results are needed as a motivation factor for the team,” Haumba stated.
Despite the poor run of form, the coach believes that the recent break in the competition came at the right time for his team to regroup and make necessary adjustments.
“The break came in at a good time for us to redeem ourselves as things weren’t working properly for us,” he added.
Emphasizing the importance of the upcoming fixture, Haumba highlighted that this match is like a final for his side.
“It is important that everyone understands that this game is very important. We must go and give everything and look for the victory.”
Haumba acknowledged the quality of their opponents but remains optimistic about his team’s preparation.
“We have prepared for the game. This is a final for us. We are in a group that is tight. IUIU is a very good team. We have tried to work for the whole week. We are ready to start the game, and we hope lady luck will be at our side,” he said.
Meanwhile, for IUIU, the match is equally significant as they seek to advance past the group stages for the first time in recent seasons.
Their head coach, Haruna Kebba, admitted that their struggles in away matches have hindered their progress in previous campaigns.
“Last season, we failed to make it out of the group stage partly because of these games where we failed to win away from home,” said Kebba.
Kebba, however, remains determined to change the narrative and insists that his team will fight for every point.
“We can promise that we will fight for everything, every game, every point. That’s our goal in the second round, and the players are ready for it.”
Despite not having played in two months, the IUIU coach sees both positives and challenges in the situation.
“This has advantages but also inconveniences. However, we are competitors. Playing for a draw is not good enough. We shall go for the victory. This is our identity. We want to progress in the tournament,” Kebba added.
ISBAT will be seeking redemption and IUIU fighting to keep their qualification hopes alive.
