Rangers FC set for showdown with Kwara United in ongoing President Federation's cup

The President’s Cup, Nigeria’s oldest club football competition, has reached its semi-final stage, with four teams set to battle for a place in the final on Wednesday, May 21, 2025.

The fixtures promise high-stakes action as Enugu Rangers take on Kwara United, while rising side Ikorodu City face off against surprise contenders Abakaliki FC.

The encounter between Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) sides Rangers and Kwara United is being held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.

Meanwhile, the clash between Ikorodu City and Abakaliki FC will take place at the Bwari Stadium in Abuja. Both matches are scheduled to kick off at 4 p.m.

Enugu Rangers’ journey to the semi-finals has been impressive, having eliminated several strong teams along the way.

They began their campaign by knocking out former champions Kano Pillars in the Round of 64.

The six-time Federation Cup winners then proceeded to defeat Heartland FC, Bendel Insurance, and Plateau United in subsequent rounds to book their spot in the final four.

Kwara United have also had a commendable run.

They started by dispatching Cynosure FC of Ebonyi State in the Round of 64, followed by victories over Gombe United, Solution FC, and Akwa United.

Their semi-final appearance marks a significant milestone as they look to reach their first-ever final in this prestigious competition.

Abakaliki FC have turned heads with their impressive performance throughout the tournament.

The underdogs from Ebonyi State began their campaign by overcoming Yobe Desert Stars.

They went on to eliminate Katsina United, powerhouse Enyimba FC, and Nasarawa United, earning a reputation as giant-killers along the way.

Ikorodu City’s path to the semi-finals has also been noteworthy.

They edged Sunshine Stars’ U19 team via penalties in the Round of 64 and then registered wins against Crown FC, Beyond Limits FC, and Wikki Tourists to secure their place in the final four.

The semi-final clash between Rangers and Kwara United is particularly compelling, as it pits two seasoned NPFL teams against each other with a spot in the final, and possibly a continental competition, on the line.

Rangers head into the match following a narrow 1–0 win over Plateau United in the quarter-finals, while Kwara United saw off Akwa United to progress.

Rangers are aiming to reach the Federation Cup final for the second time in three years.

The club is chasing its first title since the famous “Asaba Miracle” in 2018, where they came back from a 3-0 deficit against Kano Pillars to win on penalties.

In terms of winning the President’s Cup, Rangers also boast Federation Cup triumphs in 1974, 1975, 1976, 1981, and 1983.

This highlights their storied history in Nigerian football.

Kwara United, on the other hand, are looking to make history by reaching the Federation Cup final for the first time.

Kwara United, opponents of Rangers FC in Semi-finals of President’s Federations Cup 2024/25

Their strong showing so far has earned them praise, and they aim to maintain momentum as they face a formidable Rangers side.

Speaking before the match, Rangers defender Effimi Nsi voiced confidence in his team’s readiness and determination.

“We are ready to face any club in the Federation Cup,” he said.

“We don’t fear any team but respect all.

“I can assure our supporters that we are fully prepared to reach the final.”

In the NPFL standings, Rangers are currently 8th with 52 points, while Kwara United sit 12th with 50 points.

With both teams unlikely to secure a continental competition slot through the league, winning the Federation Cup provides a vital opportunity to claim one of the CAF Confederation Cup spots.

The encounter is expected to be fiercely contested, with both sides fueled by ambition and strong fan support.

The winner will advance to the 2025 Federation Cup final, with the exact date to be confirmed.

In the other semi-final, Abakaliki FC and Ikorodu City face off at the FIFA Goal Project pitch in Bwari, Abuja.

This match also kicks off Wednesday and will determine the second finalist of this year’s competition.