Kwara United football club of Ilorin have won the 2025 President Federation Cup after beating Abakaliki FC 4-3 on penalties in Lagos. The match, played at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Saturday.
The victory is a historic one for the Ilorin-based team, as it marks their first major title in over 40 years.
The final was closely contested, with both teams creating chances but unable to find the net. Abakaliki FC, who had beaten big teams like Enyimba, Katsina United, Nasarawa, and Ikorodu City on their way to the final, looked lively early on. Their striker, Okoro Chukwudi, came close but could not convert a good cross.
Kwara United had their best chance in the first half through Junior Aimufua, whose shot hit the post. In the second half, Wasiu Alalade thought he had scored for Kwara, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
With no goals after 90 minutes, the match went straight to penalties. Kwara United missed their first kick, but scored the next four. Abakaliki FC missed two of their last three kicks, handing Kwara United a 4-3 win.
As champions, Kwara United will now represent Nigeria in the 2025–26 CAF Confederation Cup.
Meanwhile Rivers Angels came from behind to defeat Nasarawa Amazon also 4-2 on penalty after playing 2-2.
Both kwara United and Rivers Angels will represent Nigeria in the next CAF tournament.