Nigeria National League (NNL) side, Abakaliki FC, solidified their reputation as giant killers in the 2025 President Federation Cup after overcoming Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side, Ikorodu City, in a dramatic penalty shootout at the Bwari Township Stadium in Abuja to reach final.
The tightly contested semi-final clash ended goalless in regulation time, but it was the Salt City boys who held their nerve to triumph 5-4 on penalties, sending shockwaves across the Nigerian football landscape.
This victory marks yet another scalp for Abakaliki FC, who have already eliminated top-tier sides including Katsina United, Nasarawa United, and Enyimba International in this year’s tournament.
Speaking after the thrilling encounter, George Aluo, Chairman of the Nigeria National League (NNL), praised the Ebonyi State team for their remarkable journey thus far in the competition.
“Abakaliki FC’s run is a clear statement that the NNL is producing quality football. This is not a fluke. They have beaten some of the best teams in the country and deserve to be where they are,” Aluo stated. “They have shown resilience, technical quality, and mental toughness. I urge them to stay focused and go all the way.”
Aluo also referenced El-Kanemi Warriors, another NNL side, who famously lifted the trophy last season after defeating NPFL side Abia Warriors, suggesting a shifting balance of power between the country’s two top leagues.
Also in attendance was NPFL Chairman, Honourable Gbenga Elegbeleye, who, despite the defeat of a top-tier team, expressed admiration for the underdogs.
“What we’ve witnessed today is the beauty of the Federation Cup. Abakaliki FC played with heart, and their composure during the shootout was commendable,” Elegbeleye remarked. “This also affirms that the NNL is not just a feeder league but the heartbeat of Nigerian football development.”
The electrifying contest attracted a crowd of notable football dignitaries, including NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, NFF Second Vice President Gbenga Elegbeleye, NNL CEO Emmanuel Attah, and former Lobi Stars chairman Dominic Iorfa, all of whom commended the level of competition and the quality of football on display.
With the semi-final hurdle now behind them, Abakaliki FC turn their attention to the grand finale, where they will face Kwara United in a mouthwatering clash that will determine who lifts Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious football trophy.
As anticipation builds, one thing is certain: Abakaliki FC have earned their place on the national stage, and they are not finished yet. If they can pull off one more upset, the Salt City boys will etch their names into Nigerian football history.
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