Kwara United Survive Sporting Supreme Scare to Keep Federation Cup Defence Alive

Posted : 20 May 2026

Defending champions Kwara United produced a spirited comeback to defeat Sporting Supreme U-19 4-2 on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw in regulation time to secure passage into the Round of 32 of the President Federation Cup.

The Round of 64 encounter played at the Prince Abubakar Audu University Stadium in Anyigba, Kogi State, saw the youthful Abuja side stun the Nigeria Premier Football League outfit with an energetic first-half display.

Sporting Supreme showed greater urgency from the opening whistle and were rewarded with two first-half goals in the 24th and 37th minutes. Kwara United had earlier believed they had gone ahead through Salisu Mustapha, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

Trailing by two goals at the break, Kwara United manager Ashifat Suleiman responded with tactical changes that transformed the game. The introduction of Junior Aimufua and Philip Ozor injected fresh energy into the Harmony Boys’ attack.

Aimufua pulled one back five minutes after the restart before Ozor completed the comeback in the 62nd minute to level scores at 2-2.

Kwara United pushed for a winner in the closing stages, with Babatunde Bright and Shola Abdulraheem both coming close, but Sporting Supreme’s goalkeeper produced impressive saves to force the contest into penalties.

In the shootout, the defending champions showed composure and experience, converting all four of their spot-kicks, while Sporting Supreme missed twice as Kwara United sealed a 4-2 victory on penalties.

Speaking after the match, Coach Suleiman commended his players for their determination and resilience, describing the comeback as a reflection of the mentality expected from defending champions. He also praised the fighting spirit of the young Sporting Supreme side.

Kwara United will now shift focus to their final NPFL fixture of the season away to Bayelsa United on Sunday, while awaiting the Federation Cup Round of 32 draw.

The resilient performance ensures the Harmony Boys remain on track to defend their prestigious title on the national stage. By overcoming a stern test from a determined youth side, the squad demonstrated the mental fortitude required for tournament football. Kwara United now carry renewed momentum into both their domestic league finale and the upcoming knockout rounds.

Kwara United Survive Sporting Supreme Scare to Keep Federation Cup Defence Alive

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