Lobi Stars Set for Familiar Final Clash With Flight FC in 2026 Benue President Federation Cup

Posted : 26 April 2026

A familiar rivalry returns to centre stage as Lobi Stars and Flight FC Gboko prepare to contest the final of the Benue State 2026 President Federation Cup at the J.S. Tarka Stadium on Sunday, 26 April.

In a streamlined three-team format organised by the Benue State Football Association, Lobi Stars were granted direct passage to the final as defending champions. Flight FC secured their place through the qualifying route in Otukpo, overcoming Idoma United to set up yet another meeting with the state’s most decorated side.

With both finalists already assured of tickets to the national stage, the contest in Gboko carries the weight of supremacy and local pride. For Lobi Stars, the task is clear: retain their hold on the state crown while sharpening their competitive edge ahead of their bid to return to the Nigeria Premier Football League.

Recent encounters between the two sides have followed a narrow script, with Lobi Stars recording back-to-back 2–1 victories in the 2023 and 2025 finals—evidence of a fixture often decided by fine margins and decisive moments.

Head coach John Onuh is expected to approach the match with measured intent. Defensive stability will rely on Francis Odinaka and captain Solomon Kwambe, while the midfield pairing of Jimmy Iteji and Peter Onah will be tasked with dictating tempo and linking play. In attack, Suur Kumaga and Azeez Tijani will provide the cutting edge, aiming to trouble a disciplined but occasionally vulnerable Flight FC defence.

Flight FC will approach the fixture with determination and a growing reputation as Lobi Stars’ most persistent domestic challengers. Their meetings have consistently attracted strong local interest, including a notable turnout in the 2023 final at the same venue. Despite narrow defeats in recent finals, the Gboko-based side have remained competitive, showing organisation and resilience in every encounter.

Playing before a home crowd adds extra motivation as “The Transporters” seek to change the narrative and secure their first state title.

The final presents a clear contrast between experience and ambition. Lobi Stars carry the advantage of pedigree and continuity, while Flight FC pursue a breakthrough that could define their progress. As recent history suggests, the margins are likely to remain slim.

Lobi Stars Set for Familiar Final Clash With Flight FC in 2026 Benue President Federation Cup

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