Kwara United edge Abakaliki FC on penalties to win 2025 Federation Cup

Kwara United have been crowned champions of the President Federation Cup after edging out Abakaliki FC 4–3 on penalties in a dramatic final at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.

The match ended goalless in regulation time, with both sides unable to break the deadlock, sending the encounter straight into a penalty shootout.

Despite missing their first spot-kick, Kwara United held their nerve to convert the next four penalties, clinching the prestigious trophy for the first time in the club’s history.

Saturday’s victory also secures a continental berth for the Afonja Warriors, who will represent Nigeria in the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup.

Abakaliki FC, a lower-league side, earned widespread admiration for their fairytale run to the final, having knocked out several top-tier teams along the way.