Late drama, penalty nerve seals historic FA Cup for De Sapele Lions

Posted : 28 April 2026

De Sapele Lions FC delivered a story of resilience, composure, and late-game authority to clinch their maiden Delta FA Arthur Ferdinand Federation Cup title, edging past holders Warri Wolves in a gripping final decided via penalties at the Southern Delta University Stadium, Ozoro.

What began as a disrupted buildup following the Lions’ delayed arrival due to a mechanical fault quickly transformed into a contest of shifting momentum.

Warri Wolves, looking every bit like defending champions, stamped early authority on the game and nearly broke the deadlock through Igbunu Evwerhurhoma, whose fierce effort rattled the crossbar.

However, the narrative began to tilt just before halftime, as De Sapele Lions steadied themselves and gradually imposed their rhythm. By the restart, they had grown in confidence, pressing higher and pinning Warri Wolves deep inside their own half.

The turning point came in the 68th minute. Substitute Adams Balo injected urgency into the Lions’ attack, and his set-piece delivery caused chaos in the Wolves’ defense. Harrison Odumosu reacted quickest, firing home a decisive opener that sent the Sapele contingent into celebration.

Yet, the champions responded with immediacy and intent. Just five minutes later, Peter Ita’s dazzling run down the flank carved open the Lions’ defense, and his pinpoint cross found Emmanuel Arigbogha, who headed home the equalizer with precision.

With the scores level, both sides traded attacks in a frantic finale but failed to find a winner in regulation time. The match inevitably drifted into a penalty shootout, where composure proved decisive.

De Sapele Lions held their nerve, converting three of four attempts, while Warri Wolves faltered, missing three of their five kicks to hand the Sapele side a dramatic 3-2 shootout triumph.

Earlier in the day, Delta Queens reaffirmed their dominance in the women’s category, successfully defending their title with a 3-1 victory over Royal Queens, overcoming a late challenge to stay on top.

Beyond the on-field action, the tournament also underscored a growing commitment to football development in Delta State. DFA Chairman Godwin Adode praised the competition’s sponsor, Arthur Ferdinand Engineering, highlighting the importance of sustained partnerships in reviving grassroots football.

Echoing that sentiment, CEO Idama Amurun commended the quality of play and pledged continued support, including equipment donations and financial incentives aimed at nurturing emerging talents.

The men’s champions received ₦3 million, with runners-up earning ₦1 million, while the women’s winners and finalists took home ₦1 million and ₦500,000 respectively.

The final drew notable dignitaries, including Nigeria Olympic Committee Vice President Chief Solomon Ogba and Delta State Sports Commission Chairman Onoriode Oborevwori, reflecting the significance of the competition within the state’s football ecosystem.

For De Sapele Lions, this triumph marks more than just silverware—it signals the arrival of a new contender and a memorable chapter in Delta football history.

The victory cements the club's status as a rising power capable of upsetting the established order in Nigerian regional football. As the celebrations continue in Sapele, the focus turns to maintaining this high standard for future national campaigns.

Late drama, penalty nerve seals historic FA Cup for De Sapele Lions

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