Former Super Eagles star Ifeanyi Onyedika has described Abakaliki FC as the “real giant killers” of the 2025 President Federation Cup after their stunning 2-0 upset over NPFL heavyweights Enyimba. The NNL side shocked the two time African champions in a Round of 16 clash at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, with goals from Chukwudi Okoro and Eni Daniel sealing the victory.
Okoro’s opener came from a pinpoint Daniel cross before the latter doubled the lead, capping off a famous night for the underdogs. Onyedika, a 1980 AFCON winner and coach of the Ebonyi-based side, described it as the biggest win in the club’s history.
“We’ve won games before, but this one is the sweetest,” said Onyedika. “We beat Yobe Stars, then Katsina United and now Enyimba. That tells you a lot about who we are.”
Abakaliki FC now face another top-flight side, Nasarawa United, in the quarter-finals. But Onyedika remains confident. “This win has given the players belief. We’ll go back, correct a few mistakes, and be ready for what comes next.”
Editorial
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Every great cup competition needs its Cinderella story and in this year’s President Federation Cup, Abakaliki FC have stolen the spotlight. Their 2-0 dismantling of Enyimba wasn’t a fluke. It was fearless, clinical, and richly deserved. And their coach, Ifeanyi Onyedika, is right to shout it from the rooftops this is giant-killing in its purest form.
The Federation Cup has a history of surprises, but few would have bet against Enyimba, a club steeped in continental success. Yet Abakaliki’s grit, tactical discipline, and belief triumphed over pedigree. These are the games that define a season and, sometimes, an era.
But beyond the scoreline lies a deeper narrative: the rise of grassroots football in Nigeria. Clubs like Abakaliki FC aren’t just participating anymore they’re competing, beating giants, and proving that the gulf between divisions is narrowing through dedication and smart coaching.
Now, with Nasarawa United looming, the fairytale continues. And whether it ends in the quarters or beyond, Abakaliki FC have made one thing clear: they belong on this stage.
Did You Know?
- Abakaliki FC play in the Nigeria National League (NNL), the country’s second-tier football division.
- Enyimba have won the CAF Champions League twice in 2003 and 2004 making them Nigeria’s most successful club on the continent.
- The President Federation Cup is Nigeria’s oldest national football competition, founded in 1945 as the Challenge Cup.
- Ifeanyi Onyedika was part of Nigeria’s historic 1980 AFCON-winning squad that beat Algeria 3-0 in the final.
- Eni Daniel, scorer and provider against Enyimba, has been involved in five goals during the Federation Cup campaign so far.
