Kwara United and Rivers Angels are the new champions of the 2025 President Federation Cup after thrilling victories at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Saturday, 28 June.
Kwara United Celebrate Historic Win
Kwara United won the men’s title after beating Abakaliki FC 4-3 on penalties. The match ended goalless after 90 minutes, forcing the tie into a penalty shootout.
This win is a historic one for the Ilorin-based club, marking their first major trophy in over 40 years.
Both teams had good chances during the game. Abakaliki FC, who had knocked out top clubs like Enyimba and Katsina United on their way to the final, started well. Their striker Okoro Chukwudi almost gave them the lead in the first half.
Kwara United’s best moment came when Junior Aimufua’s shot hit the post. Wasiu Alalade thought he had scored for Kwara in the second half, but his effort was ruled out for offside.
In the shootout, Kwara United missed their first penalty but scored the next four. Abakaliki FC missed two of their last three kicks, handing Kwara a 4-3 win.
Kwara United will now represent Nigeria in the 2025–26 CAF Confederation Cup.
Rivers Angels Lift Tenth Federation Cup
Rivers Angels claimed their tenth President Federation Cup title in the women’s category after coming from behind to beat Nasarawa Amazons 4-2 on penalties.
The Port Harcourt-based team were two goals down in the first half, with Rukayat Shobowale scoring twice for the Amazons.
But Rivers Angels showed great determination after the break. Taiwo Ajibade scored in the 57th minute to begin the comeback, and five minutes later, Taiwo Afolabi made it 2-2.
In the penalty shootout, Nasarawa Amazons missed their first kick through Esther Adesoji. Rivers Angels then scored three straight penalties before their goalkeeper, Anderline Mgbechi, saved a crucial effort.
Mgbechi then stepped up to take the final kick and scored, sealing a 4-2 shootout win for Rivers Angels.
This latest title adds to Rivers Angels’ previous wins in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2024.
