Nigerian National League (NNL) underdogs Abakaliki FC have continued their sensational giant-killing run in the 2025 President Federation Cup, shocking top-tier side Ikorodu City 5-4 on penalties to book their spot in the final.
Wednesday’s semi-final at the Bwari Township Stadium in Abuja ended goalless in regulation time, but the Salt City side once again held their nerve during the shootout to secure another historic upset in their dream campaign.
Abakaliki FC’s rise has been nothing short of magical with surprising victories against
They edged Katsina United on penalties in the Round of 32, shocked nine-time NPFL champions Enyimba 2-0 in the Round of 16, and eliminated Nasarawa United via another 5-4 shootout after a 1-1 draw in the quarterfinals.
Their latest triumph against Ikorodu City means they will face Kwara United in what will be a debut final appearance for both clubs in Nigeria’s oldest football competition.
Chairman of the Nigeria National League, George Aluo, lauded the team’s consistency and resilience.
“Abakaliki FC’s run is a clear statement that the NNL is producing quality football.They’ve beaten some of the best teams in the country and deserve to be in the final. This is not a fluke,” Aluo said.
Echoing his sentiments, NPFL Chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye applauded the competition’s unpredictability and Abakaliki’s discipline.
“This is the beauty of the Federation Cup,” Elegbeleye said.
“Abakaliki FC played with great discipline and composure. Their journey reminds us that football development in Nigeria must include strong support for the NNL.”
During the shootout, Ikorodu City’s Tosin Oyedokun, Ayomide Cole, Rivio Ayemwenre, and Austin Harrison converted their penalties, but costly misses from Kelechi Onwe and Marvelous Freedom handed the advantage to Abakaliki.
Abakaliki’s Elochukwu Paschal, Jude Aleke, Emeka Ugwu, and Promise Uche all scored, and despite a miss from Linus Christopher, they secured the win.
Meanwhile, in the other semi-final played at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, Kwara United edged six-time champions Rangers 1-0, courtesy of a 50th-minute goal from Wasiu Alalade.
The stage is now set for a thrilling final between two first-time finalists—Abakaliki FC and Kwara United—with a brand new champion set to be crowned in the 2025 President Federation Cup.
