2026 President Federation Cup: Nasarawa United target historic final spot against Ikorodu City

Posted : 18 June 2026

Nasarawa United will seek to end years of heartbreak in the President Federation Cup when they face Ikorodu City in a crucial semi-final clash at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.

The Solid Miners are aiming to reach the competition's final for the first time since 2021 and move a step closer to winning their maiden Federation Cup title.

Having fallen short in their two previous final appearances in 2016 and 2021, the Lafia-based side sees the encounter against fellow Nigeria Premier Football League side Ikorodu City as another opportunity to rewrite history.

Speaking after the team's final training session on Tuesday, Technical Adviser Mangut Mbwas expressed confidence in his players' readiness for the high-stakes fixture.

According to him, the team has prepared adequately and understands the magnitude of the task ahead.

"We know it is going to be a very difficult match because Ikorodu City are a quality side with energetic and talented players.

"At this stage of the competition, every team deserves respect, and there are no easy opponents.

"We have worked hard in training and believe that taking our chances and avoiding costly mistakes will be key to achieving our objective," Mbwas said.

The coach noted that apart from Jofrank Istifanus, who is nursing a groin injury, the squad is largely injury-free and fully focused on securing victory.

He added that the disappointment of narrowly missing a continental ticket in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League season would serve as extra motivation for the players.

Team captain King Osanga also stressed the importance of the match, saying the players were united and determined to seize the opportunity before them.

"Semi-final matches like this are special occasions and do not come every season.

"We respect Ikorodu City, but we are fully aware of what is at stake.

"We have come close to winning this competition before, and everyone in the squad is determined to give their best and make our supporters proud," Osanga said.

The former Nigerian youth international expressed optimism that the team could overcome the Lagos side and secure a place in the final.

Kick-off for the encounter is scheduled for 4 p.m., with the winners advancing to the final of Nigeria's oldest domestic football competition.

For Nasarawa United, victory would not only end a long wait for another final appearance but also bring them closer to ending their trophy drought and claiming a historic Federation Cup triumph.

Both teams head into this high-stakes semi-final knowing that a single clinical performance will define their domestic season. With tactical preparations complete and squad morale high, football fans can expect an intense, tightly contested battle in Benin City. The ultimate prize remains a coveted spot in the grand finale of Nigeria's most prestigious knockout tournament.

2026 President Federation Cup: Nasarawa United target historic final spot against Ikorodu City

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