The Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos is set to witness a thrilling doubleheader as it hosts both the men’s and women’s finals of the prestigious Nigeria Federation Cup on Saturday, June 28. This marks the second consecutive year that the iconic stadium will stage the culmination of this historic football competition, adding to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the event. The Nigeria Football Federation’s decision to once again choose this venue underscores its significance and capacity to host high-profile football matches, promising a memorable experience for players and fans alike.
The men’s final presents a captivating clash between the surprise package of the tournament, Abakaliki FC of Ebonyi, and the more established Kwara United of Ilorin. Abakaliki FC’s journey to the final has been nothing short of extraordinary, defying all expectations and upsetting more fancied opponents along the way. Their underdog status adds a compelling narrative to the final, highlighting the unpredictable nature of cup competitions and the potential for lower-ranked teams to achieve greatness. Meanwhile, Kwara United’s appearance in their first-ever Federation Cup final marks a significant milestone in their club’s history, showcasing their growth and ambition on the national stage. The clash between these two contrasting sides promises a thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to etch their names in the annals of Nigerian football history.
Abakaliki FC’s remarkable run to the final has been characterized by their giant-killing exploits, consistently overcoming higher-ranked opposition. Their campaign began with a penalty shootout victory over Katsina United in the round of 32, followed by a stunning 2-0 upset of nine-time Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Enyimba in the round of 16. They continued their impressive form with a 5-4 penalty shootout win against Nasarawa United in the quarter-finals after a 1-1 draw. In the semi-finals, they faced another NPFL side, Ikorodu City, at the Bwari Township Stadium. After a goalless stalemate in regulation time, Abakaliki once again displayed their composure and resilience, winning 5-4 on penalties to secure their place in the final. This string of impressive victories has cemented their reputation as giant slayers and has captured the imagination of football fans across the nation.
Kwara United’s path to the final, while less dramatic than Abakaliki’s, is no less significant. Their semi-final clash against six-time champions Rangers at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena was a closely contested affair. A solitary goal was enough to separate the two sides, propelling Kwara United to their maiden Federation Cup final appearance. Their victory over such a storied opponent underscores their quality and determination, setting the stage for an intriguing final against the surprise package, Abakaliki FC.
The women’s final promises an equally enthralling contest between defending champions Rivers Angels of Port Harcourt and two-time champions Nasarawa Amazons of Lafia. This matchup represents a repeat of the 2019 final, adding another layer of intrigue and historical context to the encounter. Rivers Angels are determined to retain their title and solidify their dominance in women’s football, while Nasarawa Amazons are eager to reclaim the trophy and add another chapter to their rich history in the competition. Both teams boast talented squads and experienced coaching staff, ensuring a high-quality and competitive final.
Nasarawa Amazons enter the final with momentum on their side, having finished second in the 2025 NWFL Premiership Super Six playoff. Their strong performance in the league, including a 2-1 victory over Rivers Angels in the penultimate matchday, demonstrates their form and potential. However, Rivers Angels will be determined to avenge that defeat and prove their mettle on the biggest stage. The final promises to be a closely fought battle, with both teams vying for glory and bragging rights in Nigerian women’s football.
