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‘President Federation Cup Title Will Compensate For Abakaliki FC Relegation From NNL’ – Centre-Back, Ezema
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Abakaliki FC centre-back, Ifeanyi Ezema, has stated that lifting the 2025 President Federation Cup would serve as the only fitting consolation for their imminent relegation from the Nigeria National League (NNL).
The Ebonyi-based side, known as The Rice Boys, have endured a torrid campaign in the NNL, languishing at the bottom of Conference B with 17 points from 18 matches, just two games left to play. Relegation to the Nationwide League One (NLO) appears inevitable.
However, a glimmer of redemption has emerged through their fairytale run in the President Federation Cup, where they’ve stunned several higher-ranked opponents to reach the final in their debut appearance. They edged past Ikorodu City FC in the semi-finals via a 6-5 penalty shootout, following a goalless draw in regulation time.
Now, they will face Kwara United in the showpiece final—on a date yet to be determined by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
In an interview with Completesports.com, Ezema emphasized the significance of the final for the club, their supporters, and the Ebonyi State Government.
“We’re prepared and fully focused on the President Federation Cup final against Kwara United,” said Ezema.
“It won’t be an easy match—we know that—but we’re going to give it our all, knowing that victory in the final will serve as the only compensation to our supporters, the government, and the people of Ebonyi State for standing behind us throughout the campaign.”
Reflecting on their dismal league performance, Ezema admitted it fell short of expectations but pointed to their impressive Cup form as proof of the squad’s potential.
“Yes, our performance in the league hasn’t been what we expected. But in the Cup run, we’ve done well, and you can check the number of NPFL sides we’ve met and defeated—Katsina United, Nasarawa United, Enyimba, and Ikorodu City. That tells you we’re not a bad side at all.”
“Against Kwara United in the final, we hope to fight and replicate that form which saw us beat these top teams, by the grace of God.”
Victory in the Federation Cup would not only be a historic achievement for Abakaliki FC but also earn them a slot in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup, further cushioning the blow of their drop to the third tier.
