Kwara United on Sunday wrote their name in gold after edging out underdogs Abakaliki FC 4鈥3 on penalties to win the 2025 President Federation Cup final, securing a ticket to represent Nigeria in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Played at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, the epic showdown ended goalless after regulation time, but the Harmony Boys triumphed in the nervy shootout to lift their first major national trophy in 49 years鈥攅nding a near half-century drought for the Ilorin-based club.
From the first blast of the whistle, Kwara United showed intent, dominating possession and forcing early openings.
Their closest chance in the first half came in the 21st minute when Junior Aimufua鈥檚 rocket shot rattled the crossbar.
At the opposite end, the defensive line led by Jimoh Gbadamosi, Ibrahim Yahaya, Saheed Olaniyi, and Victor proved impenetrable, effectively neutralizing Abakaliki FC鈥檚 attacking threats.
The second half followed a similar script, with Kwara United pushing for a breakthrough.
A deflected attempt by Yahaya nearly slipped in but was clawed out by the Abakaliki goalkeeper.
The stadium momentarily erupted in the 77th minute when Wasiu Alalade tapped home a cross from Akeem Akanni, only for the goal to be disallowed for offside.
With neither side able to break the deadlock, the final went into penalties.
Goalkeeper Suraj Ayeleso emerged the hero for Kwara United, saving one spot-kick and watching another fly wide. Although Akanni missed his attempt for the Harmony Boys, they held their nerve to convert four out of five penalties and clinch the 4鈥3 win.
A visibly emotional Head Coach, Tunde Sanni, praised his players for their determination and mental strength.
鈥淭his is a historic moment for Kwara State. I lost the final twice as a player, so winning it now as a coach is truly special,鈥 he said in his post-match reaction.
The final drew a star-studded crowd, including Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Gusau, and Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, among others鈥攈ighlighting the magnitude of the occasion.
For Abakaliki FC, who have stunned pundits by reaching the final less than a year after their formation and as a third-tier league side, it was a gallant finish.
Their disciplined performance throughout the tournament earned them admiration and respect from fans nationwide.
With this landmark victory, Kwara United have not only ended a decades-long wait for a national title but have also earned the honour of flying Nigeria鈥檚 flag on the continental stage鈥攁 new dawn for football in Kwara State.