Kwara United will face Abakaliki FC in a landmark final of the 2025 President’s Federation Cup. It will be the first time either side has reached this stage of Nigeria’s oldest football competition.
Kwara earned their spot after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Rangers International at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, thanks to a goal from Wasiu Alalade three minutes after the break, with goalkeeper Suraj Ayeleso making several crucial saves. The result marked the first appearance by a Kwara State team in the final since Alyufsalam Rocks in 1976.
Abakaliki FC the giant‑killing Nigeria National League side overcame Ikorodu City in a nerve‑wracking semi‑final. The match remained goalless through regular time before Abakaliki triumphed 5–4 on penalties. Their victory followed shocking wins over Katsina United, Enyimba FC and Nasarawa United, earning them the distinction of being the first team from Ebonyi State to reach the final.
The winning team will claim not only national glory but also a coveted place in the 2025–26 CAF Confederation.
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Editorial
We marvel at how this final reflects the unpredictable beauty of Nigerian football. Both Kwara United and Abakaliki FC have defied the odds, yet in very different ways. The Harmony Boys finally returned to the national spotlight after nearly five decades and now stand on the cusp of redemption. Meanwhile, Abakaliki’s fairy tale reminds us that belief and resilience can topple giants.
For us, this is more than a match it’s a statement on opportunity and merit. Kwara’s tactical discipline and calm under pressure highlight the value of experience. Abakaliki’s fearless run underscores the importance of daring to dream. It’s impossible to ignore the echoes of history meeting hope; these teams have earned every moment of this spotlight.
As the nation readies itself for a spectacular clash, we see in both squads the embodiment of aspiration. From Kwara’s long march back to relevance, to Abakaliki’s rapid rise, this final is a tribute to progress through perseverance. And as they step onto the pitch, we stand with them believing that this match isn’t just a final, but a canvas on which football’s greatest stories are painted and where our shared hopes will find their expression.
Did You Know?
- The President’s Federation Cup began in 1945 and is Nigeria’s oldest football tournament.
- Alyufsalam Rocks, representing Kwara State in 1976, lost the then‑Challenge Cup final 2–0 to Enugu Rangers.
- Abakaliki FC was playing in the Nigeria National League (second tier) before their blockbuster cup run.
- A CAF Confederation Cup spot is now on offer to the 2025 Federation Cup winner.
- Rangers International are six‑time winners of the Federation Cup, last lifting the trophy in 2015.
