Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle will be among the spectators when Abakaliki FC face Kwara United in the 2025 President’s Federation Cup final on June 28 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
Chelle’s attendance comes as he scouts for fresh talent ahead of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), which kicks off in August 2025.
Nigeria has been drawn in Group D alongside holders Senegal, Congo, and Sudan, with group matches to be played in Zanzibar—a scenic Tanzanian archipelago known for its vibrant culture and tight-knit football venues.
Abakaliki FC’s rise has captivated Nigerian football fans. The Ebonyi-based underdogs stunned NPFL giants Enyimba FC with a 2-0 win in the Round of 16, then edged past Nasarawa United and Ikorodu City via back-to-back penalty shootouts after tense draws in the quarter and semi-finals.
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Now, in their first-ever Federation Cup final, the newcomers will be looking to crown a dream campaign with silverware — and potentially impress the watching national team coach.
El-Kanemi Warriors are the defending champions of the Federation Cup. Photo Credit: The Super Jay
On the opposite end, Kwara United have marched to the final with gritty performances of their own. After a commanding 3-0 victory over Solution FC, they needed penalties to oust Akwa United in the quarter-finals.
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The semi-final against Rangers International was settled by a single goal from Wasiu Alalade, sealing their first Federation Cup final appearance and a chance to make club history in Lagos.
Coach Chelle’s presence adds an extra layer of significance to the final, as he eyes talent to bolster his CHAN squad.
The CHAN 2025 tournament, exclusive to domestic league players, will serve as a dress rehearsal for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
