Kwara United set to begin President Federation Cup title defense against Sporting Supreme U19

Defending champions Kwara United will begin their 2026 Federation President Cup campaign with a round of 16 clash against Abuja-based Sporting Supreme U19 FC following the official draw held on Friday night.

The Harmony Boys etched their name in Nigerian football history last June after defeating Abakaliki FC on penalties in Lagos to clinch their first national title, and will now look to successfully defend the prestigious trophy.

Kwara United booked their place in this year’s competition after a convincing 7-1 victory over Kwaita FC in the semi-finals of the Kwara State Federation Cup.

Another Kwara State representative, Gaa Akanbi FC, making their debut in the national competition, has faced a tough test against Lagos champions and Ikorodu City FC of the Nigerian Premier Football League in the round of 16.

Gaa Akanbi became one of the surprises of the state playoffs after defeating ABS Ilorin FC 5-4 on penalties in the semi-finals to earn their historic qualification ticket.

Elsewhere, 2023 champions Bendel Insurance will begin their campaign against Katsina United FC in one of the highlight matches of the round, while 2024 winners El-Kanemi Warriors will take on Krusaders FC.

However, several prominent clubs will miss this year’s edition of the competition, including two-time champions Kano Pillars, 2025 runners-up Abia Warriors and ABS Ilorin FC.

Some of the other eye-catching matches include Kebbi United against Shooting Stars, Sunshine Stars against Niger Tornadoes and G12 FC against Rivers United.

Meanwhile, the organizers are yet to announce the official dates and venues for the round of 16.

President Federation Cup round of 16 schedule (men’s)

Kwara United vs Sporting Supreme U19 FC

Sokoto United vs Mojoda FC

Katsina United vs Sapele Lions FC

Adamawa United vs Agbana Wonderful FC

Bendel Insurance v Katsina United FC Juniors

Crown FC vs. Cynosure FC

El-Kanemi Warriors vs. Krusaders FC

Akwa United vs Wilbros FC

Kebbi United against shooting stars

Kada Warriors FC vs. Campos FC

Wikki Tourists v Jigawa Golden Stars Juniors FC

Bayelsa United vs Oisa FC

Beyond Limits FA v Bida Lions FC

Stommers FC vs Warri Wolves

Adamawa Academy vs Flight FC Gboko

Mighty Jets FC vs. Adaminogo FC

G12 FC vs Rivers United

Godswill Akpabio FC v Rangers International

Sporting Supreme FC vs Ejigbo City FC

Nasarawa United vs WestGets FC

Kogi United FC vs Lobi Stars

Ahudiamen FC vs. Plateau United

Ingas FC vs. Edel FC

Kanta Warriors vs. FC Basira

Ikorodu City vs Gaa Akanbi FC

Jigawa Golden Stars vs. E World FC

El Shama FC vs Enyimba FC

Ysfon Stars FC vs Gombe United

Sunshine Stars vs Niger Tornadoes

Warinje FC vs. Bichi First FC

Zamfara United vs Barau FC

Abu DLC FC vs. Abakaliki FC