In a thrilling display of football at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, newly promoted Nigeria Premier Football League side El-Kanemi Warriors clinched the President’s Cup by defeating Abia Warriors 2-0, MySportDab Reports
This victory not only crowned them champions but also secured Nigeria’s second CAF Confederation Cup ticket for the upcoming season. The Maiduguri-based team will join Enyimba in Africa’s prestigious second-tier club competition, as Enyimba had already booked their spot by finishing third in the 2023-24 Nigeria Premier Football League standings.
El-Kanemi Warriors, led by coach Aliyu Zubairu, entered the match as underdogs but quickly demonstrated their intent. Midfielder Nasiru Salihu was the standout performer, scoring both goals for his team.
The first goal came early in the game, following a penalty awarded after Abia Warriors’ defender Aryamin Umar fouled inside the box. Salihu coolly converted from the spot, giving his side the lead. He doubled the tally in the second half with a well-placed shot, sealing El-Kanemi’s third Federation Cup title, their first since back-to-back wins in 1991 and 1992.
While El-Kanemi Warriors celebrated their triumph, the women’s final saw Rivers Angels end a six-year title drought by defeating Naija Ratels 1-0. Rivers Angels, who last lifted the Female Federation Cup in 2018, showed resilience and determination throughout the match.
The decisive moment came in the dying minutes of the first half when a penalty was awarded after Naija Ratels’ defender Adebayo Jumai was penalized for a handball inside the box. Blessing Okpe stepped up and delivered a calm and composed finish, beating Naija Ratels’ goalkeeper Faith Omilani to score the only goal of the match.
Rivers Angels’ victory marked their ninth Federation Cup win, reinforcing their status as one of Nigeria’s premier women’s football clubs. The match, like the men’s final, highlighted the excitement and competitive spirit of Nigerian football.
Both El-Kanemi Warriors and Rivers Angels will look to build on their success as they prepare for their respective challenges ahead, domestically and on the continental stage.
