President Federation Cup: Semi-Final Showdowns Set for Katsina and Benin Today

President Federation Cup: Semi-Final Showdowns Set for Katsina and Benin Today 

By Niyi Busari 

The race for this year’s President Federation Cup reaches a decisive stage on Wednesday as former champions El-Kanemi Warriors and Wikki Tourists square off in a highly anticipated semi-final clash at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Both sides boast proud histories in Nigeria’s oldest domestic football competition and will be aiming to secure a place in the final.

El-Kanemi Warriors, representing Borno State, first lifted the trophy in consecutive seasons in 1991 and 1992. The Maiduguri-based side defeated Kano Pillars 3-2 in the 1991 final before edging Stationery Stores 1-0 the following year. They added a third title in 2024, overcoming Abia Warriors in the final, inspired by the impressive performances of midfielder Nasiru Salihu.

Wikki Tourists, meanwhile, are seeking a return to the summit after their lone Federation Cup triumph in 1998. The Bauchi club defeated Plateau United via a penalty shootout following a goalless draw in the final played at the Ranchers Bees Stadium in Kaduna.

Both teams have impressed on their route to the semi-finals. Wikki Tourists eliminated Jigawa Golden Stars Jnr, former champions Bayelsa United, Kada Warriors and Flight FC, while El-Kanemi Warriors overcame Krusaders FC, Akwa United, Bendel Insurance and Sokoto United.

In the second semi-final, Nasarawa United will face Ikorodu City at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.

For Nasarawa United, the venue evokes painful memories. The Solid Miners suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Bayelsa United in the 2021 final at the same stadium and will be eager to rewrite history as they seek a place in this year’s showpiece.

Nasarawa United booked their place in the last four with victories over Westgate FC, Ejigbo City, Rivers United and Plateau United.

Ikorodu City, meanwhile, arrive with renewed confidence after narrowly missing out on a continental ticket in the Nigeria Premier Football League. The Lagos-based side retained their top-flight status and remained in contention for continental qualification until the final day of the season.

The club is also motivated by last year’s Federation Cup disappointment, having been eliminated in the semi-finals by Abakaliki FC after a penalty shootout following a goalless draw.

On their journey to the semi-finals, Ikorodu City defeated Gaa Akanbi, Jigawa Golden Stars, two-time CAF Champions League winners Enyimba FC and Barau FC.

With a place in the final and a potential route to continental football at stake, both semi-final encounters are expected to deliver intense competition and high drama. Former champions El-Kanemi Warriors and Wikki Tourists renew their quest for Federation Cup glory in Katsina, while Nasarawa United return to the scene of their 2021 final heartbreak to face ambitious Ikorodu City in Benin.