The NFF-TINGO Federation Cup men and women competitions have reached their climax, with the grand finale set to take place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba. Fans are eagerly anticipating the two big encounters, which promise to be enthralling and captivating.
In the women’s final, Bayelsa Queens and Rivers Angels will battle it out for the coveted trophy, both teams riding on history and confidence. Bayelsa Queens emerged victorious the last time there was a Federation Cup grand finale, defeating FC Robo Queens of Lagos. Meanwhile, Rivers Angels won the competition in 2018 and are walking tall with confidence.
The men’s final will feature multi-titlists Rangers International of Enugu and Bendel Insurance of Benin. These two teams clashed in the final of the competition in 1978 and 1981, with each team claiming a win. Rangers International were the dominant team in the mid-70s, winning the oldest and most glamorous football championship consecutively in 1974, 1975 and 1976. In 1977, they won the Africa Cup Winners Cup.
Though they could not defend their title in 1977, losing to IICC Shooting Stars, the ‘Flying Antelopes’ were back in the final in 1978. However, they were stunned by Bendel Insurance, who emerged victorious with a 3-0 scoreline. Rangers got their revenge in 1981, winning 2-0 to return the trophy back to Enugu.
On Wednesday in Asaba, the two teams will battle it out once again for the coveted trophy. Bendel Insurance will have the services of midfielder Divine Nwachukwu, who was part of the Super Eagles’ qualification for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Fans and dignitaries, including the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, are expected to grace the occasion.
The NFF-TINGO Federation Cup men and women competitions are the biggest and oldest football championships in the land. Fans are excited to witness the thrilling encounters, which are sure to be filled with sports terminologies such as tackles, goals, and saves. Stay tuned for the results and highlights of the grand finale.
