… Kwara United proceed to round of 32

By Femi Atolagbe

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Shooting Stars FC of Ibadan have been thrown out of the 2025 President Federation Cup for fielding ineligible players in their first-round match against Zamfara United FC.

Following the refusal of Zamfara United to show up for the round of 64 match, the Oluyole Warriors had earlier in the day picked the round of 32 ticket without kicking the ball at Area 3 Field, Abuja.

Ruth David, on behalf of the Nigeria Football Federation General Secretary informed Shooting Stars that five players who were not registered with the Nigeria Football Federation for this year featured in the line-up of the game.

The letter reads: “It has come to our attention that your club fielded five [5] ineligible players who are not registered with the NFF for this edition of the competition.”

The players include: Samuel Okon (Jersey No 21),Sodiq Ibrahim (Jersey No 27),Ephraim Nwachukwu (Jersey No 20), Nonso Nzediegwu (Jersey NO 23) and Ukeme Williams (Jersey No 5)

By Implication, the licences used by these players were FORGED. You are therefore disqualified from further participation in the 2025 President Federation Cup.

Meanwhile Kwara United have secured a 2-0 victory over Cynosure FC in the Round of 64 of the President Federation Cup at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin.

Substitute Wasiu Jimoh broke the deadlock in the 62nd minute, while Akanni Akeem sealed the win in stoppage time, ensuring the Harmony Boys progressed to the Round of 32 in this year’s tournament.

Despite dominating possession, Kwara United struggled to convert their chances early on but eventually found the breakthrough in the second half.

The defensive duo of Yahaya Ibrahim and Victor Adeoye showed resilience and composure, while Issa Gatta, Wasiu Alalade, Akanni Akeem, and Shola AbdulRaheem delivered incredible performances to secure the win.

Head coach Tunde Sanni expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, noting that they would build on this momentum ahead of their NPFL Matchday 30 clash against Akwa United on Sunday in Ilorin.

With this victory, Kwara United advance to the Round of 32 and next to play against Gombe United .