Abia Angels Hit By Shock Last-Minute Coaching Change Ahead Of NWFL Super 6

By Saheed Afolabi

Abia Angels FC are facing a major crisis just hours before the NWFL Super 6 tournament kicks off, after Head Coach Mario Eshalomi was asked to step aside.

Coach Eshalomi, who guided the team through a successful regular season and secured qualification for the Super 6, was reportedly instructed to relinquish his role by the club’s Commissioner in the presence of players, technical staff, and backroom personnel. The dramatic move has sent shockwaves through the team’s camp and sparked widespread concern among supporters.

Many in the women’s football community have questioned the timing of the decision, arguing that removing the coach at such a critical stage could disrupt team morale, unity, and focus as they prepare to face the country’s top sides.

Under Chairman Johnson Nwosu’s leadership, Abia Angels have had an impressive campaign, earning one of the prized spots in the Super 6. However, the sudden coaching controversy now threatens to overshadow the team’s hard-earned achievements.

Stakeholders, fans, and followers of Nigerian women’s football have called on Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, to urgently intervene. They argue that Coach Eshalomi deserves the opportunity to finish the job he started, emphasizing that continuity is essential for success at this decisive stage of the competition.

The appeal to the Governor centers on fairness, merit, and the long-term development of sports in the state. Supporters believe a swift resolution would help restore confidence within the squad and allow Abia Angels to focus fully on representing Abia State with pride at the Super 6.

As the tournament gets underway, the football fraternity awaits urgent action, hoping that the best interests of the players and the reputation of Abia State sports will take precedence.