Former champions battle history seekers in Federation Cup semi-finals

The 2025 President’s Federation Cup (men’s version) reaches a thrilling climax today as the semi-final matches take centre stage in Lagos and Abuja.

In the marquee fixture, six-time champions Rangers International of Enugu will battle Kwara United FC of Ilorin at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, for a place in the grand finale.

Meanwhile, in Abuja, tournament newcomers Ikorodu City FC lock horns with the surprise package, Abakaliki FC, at the Bwari Stadium. Both matches are scheduled to kick off at 4 p.m.

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The ‘Flying Antelopes’ of Enugu, coached by Fidelis Ilechukwu, have been in impressive form throughout the tournament. Their journey to the semi-finals has seen them eliminate former champions Kano Pillars in the Round of 64, followed by victories over Heartland FC, Bendel Insurance, and Plateau United.

Rangers defender Effimi Nsi, a standout performer since joining the team this season, voiced his team’s determination:

“We are ready to face any club in the Federation Cup. We don’t fear our opponents, but we respect them. I trust my teammates, and I know how hungry we are to win the cup. We are in Lagos for business, not for jokes.”

Kwara United, who overcame Cynosure FC, Gombe United, Solution FC, and Akwa United on their way to the semis, present a formidable challenge. The Ilorin-based side are aiming for their first final appearance in over a decade.

Over in the Federal Capital Territory, the second semi-final promises to be equally captivating. Abakaliki FC, the tournament’s biggest surprise, have stunned Yobe Desert Stars, Katsina United, Enyimba FC, and Nasarawa United to reach this stage.

They will square off against ambitious Ikorodu City FC, who edged Sunshine Stars U19 on penalties before dispatching Crown FC, Beyond Limits FC, and Wikki Tourists in subsequent rounds.

Both sides are chasing a historic first appearance in the Federation Cup final.

In the same vein, the Federation Cup women’s semi-finals is set for Saturday, May 24, showdowns in Aba and Ayingba as four of Nigeria’s elite women’s football teams battle for a place in the prestigious final.

In Aba, perennial champions Rivers Angels of Port Harcourt will face Ibom Angels of Akwa Ibom in what promises to be a fierce South-South derby, while in Ayingba, Edo Queens lock horns with Nasarawa Amazons in a clash of two experienced sides. Both matches are scheduled to kick off at 1:00 p.m.

Rivers Angels, one of Nigeria’s most successful women’s clubs, will arrive in Aba with the weight of history and expectations on their shoulders. Led by their experienced technical crew and packed with several players with Super Falcons and Falconets pedigree, the Angels are determined to return to the top after narrowly missing out in recent editions.

Their opponents, Ibom Angels, have quietly built momentum in the tournament and will be keen to cause an upset. With youthful energy and tactical discipline, the Akwa Ibom side will hope to defy the odds and book their first Federation Cup final in several years.

Over in Ayingba, Edo Queens face a stern test against former champions Nasarawa Amazons in a North-Central vs South-South contest brimming with talent and tenacity.

Edo Queens, known for their attacking flair and tactical flexibility, have impressed with their consistent displays this season. However, Nasarawa Amazons—no strangers to big occasions—will rely on their experience, resilience, and solid defensive setup to grind out a result.

With both sides eyeing silverware and a statement performance, the match in Ayingba is expected to be tightly contested.

With the 2025 Federation Cup final just one step away, all four teams know what’s at stake. Saturday’s matches promise thrilling football, dramatic moments, and the rise of new heroes as the journey to national glory continues.

Fans across the country can look forward to a double-header of elite women’s football action as Nigeria’s finest aim to etch their names in the Federation Cup’s rich legacy.