Kwara United’s head coach, Tunde Sanni, has expressed his joy following his team’s historic triumph over Abakaliki FC in the President Federation Cup final, marking their first major title in 40 years.
In a tense finale held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos over the weekend, a decisive kick from Sadeeq Yusuf ensured a dramatic 4-3 victory for Sanni’s squad during a penalty shootout. The match concluded goalless after regulation time, compelling the contest to be settled by penalties.
This victory not only secures Kwara United their inaugural trophy but also qualifies them for continental competition next season.
In his post-match interview, Coach Tunde Sanni shared his elation, stating, “I have to thank God that we won the cup. We didn’t expect Abakaliki to be as formidable as they were. We were surprised that this team could be relegated, given their quality, but we never underestimated them. Looking at our team, we are not lacking in quality. I told my boys we needed this cup more than they did.”
Reflecting on the club’s lengthy wait for silverware, Sanni remarked, “For over 40 years we have struggled to secure this cup. The support from everyone in Kwara State has been overwhelming. You can see the jubilations everywhere. We needed this trophy more than Abakaliki FC, and we are grateful that it has finally come to us.”
Captain Kabiru Muhammed also expressed his excitement, saying, “I am extremely grateful to be in this position.
I’m so happy that I don’t think I will sleep tonight due to my joy and gratitude to Almighty Allah.”
Muhammed added, “The game was incredibly tough as we were well aware of the challenges ahead. We knew it wouldn’t be easy, given their reputation as giant killers, but our resolve was to bring the cup to Ilorin, no matter the cost. We fought hard throughout the match. I had a chance to score, but it didn’t happen, and we ended up in penalties. I had faith in my teammates and our goalkeeper. We motivated one another, knowing that after this, there would be no other opportunity. In the end, we got it right. Alhamdulillah.”
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