Defending Champions Kwara United, NPFL Champions Rangers, Former Champions Akwa United And 3SC Eliminated in Round of 32 Shocks
Federation Cup Delivers Upsets as Giants Fall in Nigeria’s Knockout Competition
The President Federation Cup 2026 produced a dramatic round of 32, with several heavyweights bowing out of the competition.
Defending champions Kwara United, new league winners Rangers International, and former champions Akwa United and Shooting Stars (3SC) were all eliminated in a series of shock results.
Kwara United’s title defense ended abruptly with a 1-0 defeat to Sokoto United, while Rangers fell in a thrilling 3-2 loss to Rivers United.
Akwa United were edged out on penalties by Elkanemi Warriors after a 1-1 draw, and 3SC also exited via spot-kicks, losing 5-4 to Kada Warriors.
Elsewhere, Bendel Insurance advanced with a 3-1 win over Crown FC, Wikki Tourists beat Bayelsa United 3-1, and Bida Lions stunned Warri Wolves 2-0. Flight FC squeezed past Mighty Jets on penalties, while Nasarawa United progressed with a walkover against Ejigbo City.
Other results saw Plateau United edge Kogi United 1-0, FC Basira win a marathon shootout against Ingas FC, Ikorodu City defeat Jigawa Golden Stars 2-0, and Enyimba FC secure a narrow 1-0 victory over Gombe United.
Sunshine Stars U19 impressed with a 2-1 win over Warinje FC, while Barau FC overcame Abakaliki FC 1-0.
With several giants already out, the competition has opened up for new contenders to stake their claim. The round of 16 promises even more drama as Nigeria’s oldest knockout tournament continues to deliver surprises.
