El-Kanemi Warriors were crowned champions of the 2026 President Federation Cup after defeating Ikorodu City 1-0 in Saturday’s final at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.
The decisive moment came as early as the sixth minute when captain Muktar Ismail calmly converted a penalty to hand the Maiduguri-based side an early advantage.
It was a dream start for El-Kanemi Warriors, while Ikorodu City, playing in the first Federation Cup final in the club’s history, struggled to settle into the contest.
The Lagos side appeared nervous in the opening exchanges and were fortunate not to concede more than once as El-Kanemi pressed for a second goal.
An early substitution helped Ikorodu City regain their composure, and they gradually grew into the game.
They enjoyed more possession and played with greater confidence but failed to create clear-cut chances to test the El-Kanemi defence before the halftime whistle, with the score remaining 1-0.
The second half followed a similar pattern as Ikorodu City continued to push for an equaliser.
However, El-Kanemi Warriors remained disciplined at the back, defending resolutely to preserve their slender lead until the final whistle.
The victory secured El-Kanemi Warriors’ fourth President Federation Cup title, having previously lifted the trophy in 1991, 1992 and 2024.
It also earned the club a place in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup.
Speaking after the match, El-Kanemi Warriors’ goalkeeper, Suleiman Temitope dedicated the triumph to the club’s supporters following the team’s relegation from the Nigeria Premier Football League this season.
Head coach, Kabir Dogo described the victory as further proof of the quality of coaches from Kwara State, since he has become the third coach from the state to win the President Federation Cup in the last three years.
