Rangers International advanced to the semi-finals of the 2025 President Federation Cup following a determined 1–0 victory over Plateau United on Saturday at the Area 3 football pitch in Abuja.
The Enugu-based side avenged their recent league defeat to Plateau United, with Chiedozie Okorie netting the match-winner in the 30th minute. Okorie latched onto a long clearance from goalkeeper Divine Onuorah, broke free of his marker, and calmly slotted home.
The goal marked Okorie’s second of the tournament, having also scored in Rangers’ earlier win over Kano Pillars. He now has two goals in as many FA Cup appearances, and also found the net in the Antelopes’ NPFL Matchday 35 loss to Enyimba.
Rangers dominated the first half, creating several chances through Saviour Isaac and Hillary Ekwau, but failed to extend their lead.
Plateau United improved after the break, applying pressure in search of an equalizer, but Rangers’ defense remained solid. Goalkeeper Divine Onuorah was especially outstanding, making crucial saves to preserve the lead.
Kwara United Edge Akwa United in Penalty Thriller
Kwara United also sealed a place in the last four after a dramatic 5–4 penalty shootout win over Akwa United, following a 2–2 draw in regulation time.
Akwa struck first in the 15th minute when Endurance Ebedebiri converted from the spot after Emmanuel Ini was brought down in the box.
Ini doubled the lead 20 minutes later, picking up a long ball from the right, beating his marker, and curling a stunning left-footed shot into the top-right corner.
READ MORE: NSF 2025: Ogun State assembles largest-ever team for National Sports Festival
Kwara responded quickly, pulling one back through a fine individual effort in the 35th minute before Wasiu Alalade leveled just before halftime.
Despite numerous chances in the second half — including a superb save from Akwa keeper Jean Efala and a late free-kick miss by Ebedebiri — the match ended level. Kwara were perfect from the spot, converting all five penalties to reach the semis.
Ikorodu City, Abakaliki United Complete Final Four
Ikorodu City continued their impressive cup run with a gritty 1–0 win over Wikki Tourists. The match was marred by two red cards one for each side but a composed second-half finish was enough for the Lagos-based club to secure their first-ever Federation Cup semi-final appearance.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
Newcomers Abakaliki United also made history, booking a semifinal spot for the first time after a 1–1 draw and a 5–4 win on penalties against Nasarawa United.
Garba Abubakar had given Nasarawa the lead in the 43rd minute, but Ezema Ifeanyi equalized from the spot early in the second half. In the shootout, Abakaliki held their nerve to seal a famous victory.
SEMI-FINAL PAIRINGS
Abakaliki United vs Ikorodu City
Kwara United vs Rangers International
