El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri and Nasarawa Amazons emerged champions of the men’s and women’s categories respectively as the curtain fell on the 2026 President Federation Cup in thrilling fashion at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State.
The finals, watched by an enthusiastic crowd of football lovers, lived up to expectations, producing drama, excitement and moments of brilliance that underscored the growing prestige of Nigeria’s oldest domestic football competition.
In the men’s final, El-Kanemi Warriors defeated first-time finalists Ikorodu City FC 1-0 to lift the President Federation Cup for the fourth time in the club’s history.
The decisive moment came in the 19th minute when El-Kanemi were awarded a penalty after an infringement inside the box. Muktar Ismail calmly converted from the spot, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way for what proved to be the winning goal.
Ikorodu City responded positively after falling behind and dominated large spells of the encounter, creating several opportunities in search of an equaliser. However, the Maiduguri side displayed remarkable defensive discipline and tactical organisation to preserve their slim advantage until the final whistle.
The victory earned El-Kanemi Warriors their fourth President Federation Cup title, adding the 2026 crown to their previous triumphs in 1991, 1992 and 2024, further cementing their status among the competition’s most successful clubs.
Although disappointed by the defeat, Ikorodu City received plaudits for an impressive campaign that saw them reach their first-ever President Federation Cup final.
Earlier in the day, Nasarawa Amazons were crowned champions of the Women’s President Federation Cup after edging Heartland Queens 4-2 on penalties following a gripping 1-1 draw in regulation time.
Heartland Queens had taken the lead before the Lafia-based side mounted a spirited comeback to restore parity in the second half, forcing the contest into a penalty shootout.
Displaying composure from the spot, Nasarawa Amazons converted four of their kicks while Heartland Queens managed only two, sparking wild celebrations among the players and their supporters.
The triumph handed Nasarawa Amazons their third Women’s President Federation Cup title and served as sweet redemption after finishing runners-up in last year’s competition.
Speaking after lifting the trophy, captain Confidence Nwoha attributed the victory to the team’s determination, unity and the unwavering psychological support provided by the coaching crew.
“We thank God for the coach that we have. She is always there to encourage us psychologically. Last year we lost in the final, and we were determined that this year would be our year,” she said.
Nwoha added that despite falling behind during the match, the players never doubted their ability to fight back and secure victory.
Heartland Queens captain Chimebere Opara accepted the defeat in good spirit, describing the officiating as fair while expressing optimism about the future of her team.
“I am not happy that we lost, but I know better days lie ahead. I appeal to the Imo State Government to continue to support us and believe in us. Next year, we will do better,” Opara said.
The successful hosting of both finals at the Stephen Keshi Stadium once again reinforced Asaba’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading venues for major football events, with thousands of supporters witnessing two entertaining contests that brought the 2026 President Federation Cup to a memorable conclusion.