Ismail’s penalty seals victory for Maiduguri side as Amazons win dramatic shootout
By Emeka Dennar
ASABA — El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri have emerged champions of the 2026 President Federation Cup after defeating Ikorodu City 1-0 in the men’s final at the Stephen Keshi Stadium on Saturday.
Muktari Ismail’s first-half penalty proved decisive as the Borno-based side withstood heavy second-half pressure from debutants Ikorodu City to claim the trophy.The victory also secures El-Kanemi Warriors a spot to represent Nigeria in the CAF Confederation Cup next season alongside Shooting Stars of Ibadan, who finished third in the Nigeria Premier Football League.
Women’s Final: Amazons Win on Penalties
In the women’s final, Nasarawa Amazons defeated debutants Heartland Queens 6-5 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.Heartland Queens took the lead early in the second half through Chizoba Johnson, having earlier eliminated FC Robo Queens of Lagos in the semi-finals.
But Coach Christopher Danjuma’s Nasarawa Amazons responded with an equaliser from Judith Adaobi to force extra time and penalties. The Lafia-based team held their nerve in sudden death to lift the title.
What it means
Despite brave runs from Ikorodu City and Heartland Queens, experience told in the end as El-Kanemi Warriors and Nasarawa Amazons were crowned men’s and women’s champions respectively.
