Kwara United clinch 2025 state FA Cup
Defending champions Kwara United triumphed 5-4 on penalties over Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Ilorin FC, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time, to claim the 2025 Kwara FA President Federation Cup.
The match, held at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl in the George Agbazika Innih Stadium Complex, Ilorin, saw ABS FC take the lead in the 21st minute.
A defensive lapse by Kwara United allowed Boluwatife Ajina to score, putting the Saraki Boys ahead.
ABS FC dominated much of the game, with Kwara United finding it difficult to breach their defence.
In the second half, Coach Tunde Sanni made tactical changes, introducing Ismaila Gatta, Shola AbdulRaheem, and Junior Aimufua for Wasiu Jimoh, Issa Gatta, and Akanni Akeem.
The substitutions paid off, as Kwara United increased pressure and were rewarded in the 80th minute when Kabiru Mohammed was fouled in the box, earning a penalty.
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Ismaila Gatta stepped up and converted the spot-kick confidently, levelling the scores at 1-1.
With the game tied at 1-1, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout.
The decisive moment came when the ABS goalkeeper missed a sudden-death penalty, allowing Kabiru Mohammed to seal the win with the final kick.
Sanni, in his post-match remarks, expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, calling the win a morale booster ahead of their next NPFL fixture against Abia Warriors on Wednesday.
Moje Queens defeated Kwara Ladies United 4-3 on penalties in the women’s final after a 2-2 draw in regulation time.
