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By Magnus Aluma
The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ebonyi State Chapter, has showered encomiums on the home club side, Abakaliki Football Club following their remarkable qualification for the finals of the 2025 President Federation Cup.
Abakaliki FC sealed their place in the finals after a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout victory over Nigeria Premier Football League side, Ikorodu City FC, in a tension-soaked semifinal clash at the Bwari Township Stadium, Abuja.
The match ended 0-0 in regulation time, with the underdogs from Ebonyi displaying nerves of steel to edge out the more fancied Ikorodu side.
In a statement, the Ebonyi SWAN Chairman, Comrade Ndubuisi Nwogha, described the victory as a landmark achievement that underlines the growth of football in the state.
He hailed the team’s consistency, having earlier dispatched top-tier clubs including; Enyimba International of Aba, Katsina United, and Nasarawa United on their road to the final.
“This is a proud moment for Ebonyi State, Abakaliki FC’s performance in this tournament is a clear demonstration of hard work, strategic planning, and the potential within our local talents,” Nwogha said.
SWAN also expressed deep appreciation to Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for his commitment to advancing the course of youth and sports development, in the state.
The association further acknowledged the contributions of the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Richard Idike, and the Chairman of Abakaliki FC, Senator Obinna Ogba, for their roles in elevating the club’s profile.
With the final against Kwara United on the horizon, SWAN urged the team to remain united and focused as they aim to crown their fairytale run with the championship title.
“Abakaliki FC has already made history, but we believe they can go all the way. The entire state stands behind them as they prepare to bring the trophy home,” Nwogha added.
