2026 President Federation Cup: De Sapele Lions shock Katsina United in dramatic Round of 64 clash

Posted : 20 May 2026

The 2026 President Federation Cup Round of 64 delivered thrilling encounters, stunning upsets, and dominant performances on Tuesday, with amateur side De Sapele Lions FC producing the biggest shock of the round after eliminating Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) outfit Katsina United FC on penalties.

At the Area 3 Football Pitch in Abuja, De Sapele Lions stunned the top-flight side 5-3 in a penalty shootout after both teams settled for a 2-2 draw in regulation time.

The underdogs drew first blood in the 35th minute through towering forward Seth Edjeba, fondly called “Ikebe” by supporters, who powered home a header to hand De Sapele Lions a deserved lead.

Katsina United responded strongly after the break as Ahmed Kabiru restored parity in the 52nd minute.

The NPFL side appeared to have completed the comeback in the 69th minute when Manessa Yusuf converted from a corner-kick situation to put Katsina United 2-1 ahead.

However, De Sapele Lions showed resilience and determination as Abiodun Durojaiye struck deep into stoppage time to level proceedings at 2-2 and send the encounter into penalties.

Goalkeeper Arinze Okoro emerged as the hero during the shootout after producing two crucial saves.

Katsina United converted only one of their four spot-kicks while De Sapele Lions held their nerves to complete a famous victory and secure passage into the Round of 32.

Reacting after the historic win, De Sapele Lions head coach, Precious Mayor, described the result as a reward for years of dedication and hard work.

“We are so happy. It wasn’t easy, but we believe in God. Defeating an NPFL side today gives us confidence that our players can compete at that level soon.

“This is our first time reaching this stage, and I believe we can go all the way to the final.

“The club is owned and sponsored by Elvis Ewueje, who has kept this team running for over 10 years without state sponsorship,” he said.

Elsewhere, several NPFL clubs recorded convincing victories to advance into the next round of the competition.

Former champions Enyimba International FC were ruthless in a 4-0 demolition of El Sharma FC, while Rivers United FC defeated G12 FC 2-0.

Ikorodu City FC also delivered one of the standout performances of the day with an emphatic 4-0 victory over GAA Akanbi FC, as Akwa United FC cruised past Wilbros FC 3-0.

Rangers International FC secured a narrow 1-0 triumph against Godswill Akpabio FC, while Plateau United FC came from behind to edge Ahudiannem FC 2-1.

Bayelsa United FC defeated OISA FC 2-0, Wikki Tourists FC beat Jigawa Golden Stars FC 2-0, and El-Kanemi Warriors FC recorded a slim 1-0 victory over Krusader FC.

Gombe United FC progressed via a 3-0 walkover against YSFON Stars, while Kwara United FC survived a stern test before overcoming Sporting Supreme U-19 side 4-2 on penalties following a 2-2 draw.

The round also witnessed more dramatic outcomes across different centres.

Bendel Insurance FC rallied from behind to defeat Katsina United Juniors FC 2-1, Flight FC overcame Adamawa Academy FC 2-1, while Barau FC earned a 2-0 victory against Zamfara United FC.

Ingas FC edged Edel FC 1-0 and Sunshine Stars U-19 shocked Niger Tornadoes FC with a hard-fought 2-1 win.

Another tense contest saw Adamawa United FC draw 1-1 against Agbana Wonderful FA before eventually progressing 5-4 on penalties.

Matches in the Round of 64 continue across the country this week, with successful teams booking places in the Round of 32 of Nigeria’s oldest football competition.

The opening round has set a high standard for the remainder of the tournament, proving that lower-tier teams possess the capability to challenge the established top-flight giants. Fans can look forward to even more intense rivalries and potential giant-killings as the tournament transitions into the highly anticipated Round of 32 matchups.

2026 President Federation Cup: De Sapele Lions shock Katsina United in dramatic Round of 64 clash

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