Three-time champions El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri will face giant-killers Ikorodu City in the men’s final of this year’s President Federation Cup.
At the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Nasarawa United once again suffered disappointment at the venue, losing 4-2 on penalties to Ikorodu City after both sides played out a 1-1 draw in regulation time.
The defeat brought back memories of the 2021 final when Nasarawa United and Bayelsa United settled for a 2-2 draw before the Prosperity Boys triumphed 5-4 in a penalty shootout to lift the trophy.
Ikorodu City, making another impressive statement in the competition, held their nerve from the spot to book a historic place in the final.
In Katsina, there was no such drama as El-Kanemi Warriors produced a commanding display to defeat Wikki Tourists 3-1 and secure a second consecutive appearance in the final.
The Maiduguri-based side, champions in 1991, 1992 and 2024, will now seek to add a fourth Federation Cup title to their collection when they face Ikorodu City in the championship match.
Meanwhile, the women’s competition reaches the quarter-final stage on Thursday, with two matches scheduled for the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
Sunshine Queens of Akure will take on Confluence Queens of Lokoja in the opening fixture at 1 p.m., while multiple champions Rivers Angels will face FC Robo Queens from 4 p.m. Elsewhere, Heartland Queens of Owerri will battle Ibom Angels of Uyo in Aba, while Nasarawa Amazons will square off against the in-form Edo Queens in Anyigba.
