Nigeria Leagues
President Federation Cup final: El-Kanemi Warriors vs Abia Warriors predicted line ups
By Wale Mustapha
The die is cast, and all is set for the 2024 President Federation Cup men’s final between Abia Warriors and Elkanemi Warriors.
The match, billed for Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, on Saturday, June 29th, 2024, has been tagged the Warriors’ finale, with both teams having “Warriors” in their names.
Both clubs have had patchy paths to the final, making it hard for bookmakers to determine the favorite to win the coveted trophy.
Elkanemi Warriors have had an impressive journey to the final, defeating Gombe United, Shooting Stars, Inter Lagos, and Kebbi United along the way.
Abia Warriors, on the other hand, have beaten Sporting Supreme, Kwara United, Sokoto United, and Kano Pillars to secure their spot in the final.
The two finalists boast exceptional talents and experienced coaches. Heading into the final, Coach Aliyu Zubair is expected to stick with the core of the players that helped the team reach this far. Veteran goalkeeper Yinka David is expected to start, with Ayo Ojo or Yekini Kazeem available if the game is decided via penalties.
The defense will likely include Monday Daniel, Adamu Maigari, Usman Abbas, and Mukhtar Mohammed. Zayyad Musa will anchor the midfield alongside Bright Eghtagara and Mukhtar Ismail. Enterprising young forward Al-Amin Umar is expected to lead the attack.
Coach Zubair is known for his cautious approach, so a 4-3-3 formation is expected.
For Abia Warriors, Coach Orji is likely to field a similar team to the one that saw off Kano Pillars in the semifinals, with a few tweaks. While Ali Ishaku manned the goal in that encounter, Coach Orji might start with the experienced Femi Thomas.
The defense may include Prince Okorie and Collins Nwoburuoke, who have formed an incredible partnership throughout the season. Talented midfielders Daniel Wotlai and Adejoh Ojonugwa are expected to control the midfield, while Samson Obi will lead the attack.
The match is expected to be an entertaining and classic encounter, with both teams determined to win the cup.
Possible ElKanemi Warriors lineup vs. Abia Warriors:
- Yinka David, Adamu Maigari, Usman Abbas, Zayyad Musa, Muktar Mohammed, Monday Daniel, Samaila Bello, Muktar Ismail, Gimba Ajiji, Bright Eghtagara, Al-Amin Umar
Possible Abia Warriors lineup vs. Elkanemi Warriors:
- Ali Ishaku, Jerry Ogu, Aliyu Mohammed, Daniel Wotlai, Prince Okorie, Collins Nwoburuoke, Meme Okike, Ojonugwa Adejoh, Samson Obi, Sunday Megwo, Ayodele Ezekiel
