2025 President Federation Cup Review: Kwara United Make History, Rivers Angels Reign Supreme Again

Posted : 29 June 2025

The grand finale of the 2025 President Federation Cup lived up to its billing, delivering two intense showdowns at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Saturday. It was a day of triumph for Kwara United, who lifted their first-ever national trophy, and Rivers Angels, who showcased their enduring dominance in the women’s game by clinching their 10th Federation Cup title.

The women's final saw defending champions Rivers Angels overcome a two-goal deficit to beat arch-rivals Nasarawa Amazons in a pulsating encounter that ended 2-2 after regulation time, before the Port Harcourt-based side triumphed 4-2 on penalties.

Nasarawa’s Shola Shobowale put on a stellar performance, scoring twice in the opening 20 minutes to give the Amazons a 2-0 lead. But Rivers Angels responded in the second half, with Taiwo Ajibade reducing the deficit in the 57th minute after latching onto a through pass. Minutes later, Afolabi leveled the match following a goalmouth scramble.

In the penalty shootout, goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi was the hero, converting the final spot-kick and earning the Best Goalkeeper award, as Rivers Angels claimed a 6-4 shootout win.

Despite the loss, Shobowale, who won the MVP award, remained optimistic: “We played well to win the match, but unfortunately it did not happen. We’re happy to have reached the final and will work harder next time,” she said.

In the men's final, Kwara United emerged victorious after a tense encounter with surprise finalists Abakaliki FC from Ebonyi State. The match ended goalless in regulation time, with both sides squandering chances, including Wasiu Alalade's disallowed header for offside in the second half.

The game was ultimately decided via penalties, where Kwara United prevailed 4-3, with Victor Adeoye earning the Most Valuable Player award.

Speaking after the match, Adeoye said:

“We’re proud to have won a trophy after 49 years. This is a great moment for the club, and we thank the governor and everyone who supported us.”

The thrilling double-header was graced by several high-profile dignitaries and football icons. Among them were Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara State), and Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission.

Nigerian football legends Nwankwo Kanu and Victor Ikpeba also attended, adding prestige to the memorable occasion.

2025 President Federation Cup Awards

Women’s Competition

Winners: Rivers Angels (₦25 million)
Runner-Up: Nasarawa Amazons (₦10 million)
MVP: Shola Shobowale (Nasarawa Amazons FC)
Top Scorer: Abasi Ofon Uwa (Ibom Angels FC)
Best Goalkeeper: Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels FC)

Men’s Competition

Winners: Kwara United FC (₦50 million)
Runner-Up: Abakaliki FC (₦20 million)
MVP: Victor Adeoye (Kwara United FC)
Top Scorer: Mercelle Akinocho (Beyond Limits FC)
Best Goalkeeper: Suraj Aiyeleso (Kwara United FC)

With history made in Lagos, attention now turns to how both champions build on their successes as they prepare for continental assignments and future domestic campaigns.

2025 President Federation Cup Review: Kwara United Make History, Rivers Angels Reign Supreme Again

2025 President Federation Cup Awards

Women’s Competition

Men’s Competition

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