The stage is set for a thrilling President Federation Cup final in Lagos as Abia Warriors and El-Kanemi Warriors prepare to battle for glory.
The Abia Warriors, the ambitious “underdogs”, were the first finalists to arrive in Lagos.
Brimming with confidence, Coach Bethel Orji declared on Saturday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena that his team was ready for the challenge.
“We are here, very motivated and absolutely elated,” Orji told thenff.com. “I am grateful for the team’s recovery and excited to play in my first Cup final as a coach.”
Former player and Cup winner Orji is banking on the attacking prowess of forwards Samson Obi and Sunday Megwo to defeat the two-time champions.
“We are prepared in every way: physically, mentally and psychologically. The players are very encouraged and eager to get started,” he added.
The Cup Final appearance comes hot on the heels of Abia Warriors securing their place in the Nigerian Premier Football League for the 12th consecutive season.
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El-Kanemi Warriors seek third title
Meanwhile, the El-Kanemi Warriors, the seasoned activists, attribute their success to hard work.
Technical advisor Aliyu Zubairu believes this same work ethic will propel them to their third Nigeria Cup title on Saturday.
“Hard work has been our cornerstone,” noted Zubairu. “Everyone contributes, both on and off the field. The league season was challenging and our initial goal was to be promoted back to the NPFL. But after the round of 16, we realized that with continued effort we could reach the final.”
He congratulated his players on achieving both promotion and a place in the Cup final.
“The work is not finished yet,” Zubairu warned. “We are here to win the title. “We have had time to rest and we will work tirelessly to present the trophy to our biggest supporter, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum.”
History of the El-Kanemi Warriors Cup
Founded in the late 1980s by a football-loving governor, El-Kanemi Warriors boast a rich history in the cup.
They achieved their first Nigerian Cup victory in 1991, defeating Kano Pillars in a northern final. They successfully defended their title the following year, establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with.
This upcoming match promises an exciting encounter between a hungry Abia Warriors team and the battle-tested El-Kanemi Warriors.
Analysts have predicted an explosive clash in Lagos as whoever is crowned champion of the 2024 Federation President Cup will also get a ticket to represent Nigeria in the CAF Confederation Cup.