Four Clubs Chase 2026 President Federation Cup Final Spot

The battle for a place in the 2026 President Federation Cup final takes centre stage later today, June 17, as Ikorodu City, Nasarawa United, Wikki Tourists and El-Kanemi Warriors lock horns in two high-stakes semi-final fixtures.

Former champions El-Kanemi Warriors will face Wikki Tourists at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina in a game between two clubs with proud histories in Nigeria’s oldest domestic cup competition.

El-Kanemi head into the tie as three-time winners of the tournament. The Maiduguri club claimed back-to-back titles in 1991 and 1992 before lifting the trophy again in 2024. They beat Kano Pillars 3-2 in the 1991 final and defeated Stationery Stores 1-0 the following year. Their most recent triumph came in Lagos, where Nasiru Salihu inspired victory over Abia Warriors.

Wikki Tourists are aiming to reach the final for the first time since winning their only Federation Cup title in 1998. The Bauchi-based side secured the trophy after defeating Plateau United on penalties following a goalless draw in Kaduna.

The two teams have impressed on their route to the last four. Wikki Tourists knocked out Jigawa Golden Stars Jnr, Bayelsa United, Kada Warriors and Flight FC, while El-Kanemi Warriors overcame Krusaders FC, Akwa United, Bendel Insurance and Sokoto United.

The second semi-final will take place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side Ikorodu City will square off against Nasarawa United.

Ikorodu City are seeking redemption after suffering semi-final heartbreak in 2025. The Lagos club lost on penalties to eventual finalists Abakaliki FC after a goalless draw but have responded strongly this season.

Having secured their NPFL status and narrowly missed continental qualification on the final day of the league campaign, they booked their place in the semi-finals with victories over Gaa Akanbi, Jigawa Golden Stars, Enyimba and Barau FC.

Nasarawa United, runners-up in 2021, are also eyeing a return to the final. The Solid Miners fell to Bayelsa United on penalties in Benin City five years ago and will be determined to go one better this time.

Their journey to the last four has included wins against Westgate FC, Ejigbo City, Rivers United and Plateau United, leaving them just one match away from another appearance in the final.

With a place in the Federation Cup final and a potential continental ticket on the line, all four teams will be desperate to keep their ambitions alive when they take to the pitch on Wednesday.