2026 President Federation Cup (Women): Nasarawa Amazons Snatch Dramatic Victory to Reach Final

Posted : 25 June 2026

Nasarawa Amazons demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination as they edged Sunshine Queens 2-1 in a dramatic President Federation Cup women's semi-final on Wednesday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, booking a place in their second consecutive final of the competition.

The Lafia-based side looked destined for extra time after surrendering their lead deep into stoppage time, but a moment of brilliance from defender Alani Jumoke ensured they emerged victorious in one of the tournament's most thrilling encounters.

Coach Christopher Danjuma's side started brightly and took control of proceedings from the opening exchanges. Their dominance paid off in the 18th minute when Ayatsea Hemba capped a flowing team move with a composed finish to put the Amazons ahead.

Buoyed by the opener, Nasarawa Amazons continued to dictate possession and create chances throughout the first half. However, despite their attacking superiority, they were unable to add to their advantage before the interval.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with the Amazons maintaining territorial dominance and constantly probing the Sunshine Queens defence. The Akure side, however, remained resolute, relying on disciplined defending and impressive goalkeeping to stay in contention.

Danjuma was forced into an early tactical adjustment after the restart when Odoh Bibiana sustained a knee injury and was replaced by Ugbala Osinachi. Further substitutions saw Omosuyi Ayowunmi and Jones Imoh introduced as the Amazons searched for a decisive second goal.

Just when it appeared Nasarawa Amazons had done enough to secure victory, Sunshine Queens struck back in the third minute of added time. A substitute produced a stunning long-range effort that beat goalkeeper Udoka Unachukwu to level the score at 1-1, silencing the Amazons supporters and seemingly sending the match towards extra time.

However, the drama was far from over.

Straight from the restart, Alani Jumoke spotted the Sunshine Queens goalkeeper off her line and unleashed an audacious strike that flew into the net, restoring Nasarawa Amazons' lead almost immediately and sparking wild celebrations among players, officials and fans.

The late winner sealed a memorable 2-1 triumph and confirmed the Amazons' return to the President Federation Cup final for the second year running.

Speaking after the match, head coach Christopher Danjuma expressed gratitude for the achievement and praised his team's belief and character.

"We thank God. Last year we reached the final of the President Federation Cup, and now we are in the final again. We believe it will be a great final," he said.

The experienced tactician also urged his players to remain focused ahead of the title showdown, noting that Heartland Queens would provide a stern test.

Nasarawa Amazons will now face Heartland Queens in the women's final after the Owerri-based side defeated FC Robo Queens 2-1 in the other semi-final played in Benin City.

The grand finale of the 2026 President Federation Cup, featuring both the men's and women's finals, is scheduled to take place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, on July 11.

Nasarawa Amazons' dramatic victory highlighted their resilience and determination as they secured another appearance in the President Federation Cup final. The Lafia Landladies will now turn their attention to the title decider, where they will aim to complete their impressive run with silverware.

2026 President Federation Cup (Women): Nasarawa Amazons Snatch Dramatic Victory to Reach Final

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