Former Super Eagles forward and 1980 AFCON title winner, Ifeanyi Onyedika, is ecstatic after his side, Abakaliki FC, pulled off a massive upset in the 2025 President Federation Cup. Abakaliki FC defeated Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Nasarawa United 5-4 in a penalty shootout after the game ended 1-1 in regular time.
The match saw Nasarawa United take the lead through Garba Abubakar’s goal in the first half. However, Ifeanyi Ezema drew Abakaliki FC level from the spot five minutes into the second half. The NNL side then prevailed over Salisu Yusuf’s Solid Miners 5-4 on penalties, setting up a historic semi-final clash with Ikorodu City FC on May 18.
Onyedika, a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), expressed his excitement and pride in his team’s achievement. “I’m excited. I’m overjoyed. These boys have made us happy and I’m proud of them,” he told (link unavailable) after the emotional shootout.
The veteran coach attributed his team’s success to their experience in facing NPFL sides in the competition. “It was a difficult game, but we had to be prepared for that, knowing we couldn’t expect less from a Nigeria Premier Football League side,” he said.
Abakaliki FC’s journey in the Federation Cup has been impressive, having beaten Katsina United and Enyimba in previous rounds. Onyedika believes that the tough games have toughened his players and given them confidence in the competition.
“Don’t forget, we’ve faced NPFL sides since the start of the Federation Cup campaign. We’ve played—and of course beaten—Katsina United, Enyimba, and now Nasarawa United,” Onyedika said. “The tough games have toughened my players and given them confidence in the competition, and I’m happy they are responding to the real demands of the Challenge Cup, which is no respecter of big names.”
Abakaliki FC will face Ikorodu City FC in the semi-finals, while Rangers will take on Kwara United in the other semi-final fixture. The win marks a significant milestone for Abakaliki FC, and they will look to build on this momentum as they push for a spot in the final.