Victor Okoye and Shola Shobowale were the standout stars of the 2025 President Federation Cup finals, as Kwara United and Rivers Angels emerged champions in the men’s and women’s categories respectively during a thrilling finale at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos on Saturday, Footynaija.com reports.
In the women’s final, Rivers Angels overcame a spirited Nasarawa Amazons side in a dramatic penalty shootout to secure their 10th Federation Cup title.
The Amazons looked on course for a famous win after former Nigeria U20 star Shola Shobowale scored twice in the first half, putting them 2-0 up at the break.
But the champions showed resilience. Taiwo Ajibade, a former Nigeria U17 captain, halved the deficit with a fine strike before Rivers Angels drew level shortly after.
With the match ending 2-2 in regulation time, it was goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi – who later won the Best Goalkeeper award – who sealed the 4-2 win in the shootout by converting the decisive penalty herself.
Shobowale’s dazzling performance, which included two expertly taken goals and tireless work in midfield, earned her the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, despite finishing on the losing side.
Meanwhile, Ibom Angels forward Abasi Ofon Uwa clinched the Top Scorer award for her consistent form throughout the tournament.
The men’s final was a battle of nerves between Kwara United and Abakaliki FC, the surprise package of this year’s competition.
After a goalless draw in regulation time – which included a disallowed goal for Kwara and a shot off the woodwork – the Afonja Warriors edged the shootout 4-3 to lift their first-ever national title.
Victor Okoye, who controlled the midfield with composure and creativity, was named the men’s MVP. His influence was vital in Kwara’s journey to the final.
Beyond Limits’ Mercelle Akinocho took home the Top Scorer award, while Kwara United shot-stopper Suraj Aiyeleso was named Best Goalkeeper for his crucial saves throughout the tournament, including in the final.
Kwara United received ₦50 million for their triumph and Rivers Angels claimed ₦25 million, while their runners-up Abakaliki FC and Nasarawa Amazons pocketed ₦20 million and ₦10 million respectively.
AWARDS
WOMEN’S COMPETITION
Winner: Rivers Angels (N25million)
Runner-Up: Nasarawa Amazons (N10million)
MVP: Shola Shobowale (Nasarawa Amazons FC)
Top Scorer: Abasi Ofon Uwa (Ibom Angels FC)
Best Goalkeeper: Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels FC)
MEN’S COMPETITION
Winner: Kwara United FC (N50million)
Runner-Up: Abakaliki FC (N20million)
MVP: Victor Okoye (Kwara United FC)
Top Scorer: Mercelle Akinocho (Beyond Limits FC)
Best Goalkeeper: Suraj Aiyeleso (Kwara United FC