Later today, June 17, two crucial semi-final matches between Ikorodu City, Nasarawa United, Wikki Tourists, and El-Kanemi Warriors will take center stage in the competition for a spot in the 2026 President Federation Cup final.
At the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina, former champions El-Kanemi Warriors and Wikki Tourists will square off in Nigeria’s oldest domestic cup competition between two teams with illustrious pasts.
El-Kanemi had won the competition three times going into the match. Before winning the trophy once more in 2024, the Maiduguri team won consecutive titles in 1991 and 1992. They defeated Stationery Stores 1-0 the following year after defeating Kano Pillars 3-2 in the 1991 championship game. Their most recent victory came against the Abia Warriors in Lagos thanks to Nasiru Salihu.
The Wikki Tourists want to make it to the final for the first time since their lone Federation Cup victory in 1998. After a goalless draw in Kaduna, the Bauchi-based team defeated Plateau United on penalties to claim the trophy.
On their way to the final four, both teams have made an impression. El-Kanemi Warriors defeated Krusaders FC, Akwa United, Bendel Insurance, and Sokoto United, while Wikki Tourists defeated Jigawa Golden Stars Jr., Bayelsa United, Kada Warriors, and Flight FC.
Ikorodu City of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) will play Nasarawa United in the second semi-final at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
After experiencing heartbreak in the semi-finals in 2025, Ikorodu City is looking for atonement. After a goalless match, the Lagos team fell on penalties to eventual finalists Abakaliki FC, but they have bounced back this season.
After securing their NPFL status and only missing continental qualification on the last day of the league season, they defeated Gaa Akanbi, Jigawa Golden Stars, Enyimba, and Barau FC to win their spot in the semi-finals.
The 2021 runners-up, Nasarawa United, are also hoping to make it back to the championship game. Five years ago, the Solid Miners lost to Bayelsa United on penalties in Benin City. This time, they are motivated to improve.
They are only one game away from making another final appearance after defeating Westgate FC, Ejigbo City, Rivers United, and Plateau United on their way to the final four.
When all four clubs hit the field on Wednesday, they will be fighting to maintain their hopes for a spot in the Federation Cup final and a possible continental trip.
