4 months ago
10
Rivers Angels emerged victorious in the President Federation Cup final, defeating Naija Ratels 1-0 on Saturday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
The lone goal came from Blessing Okpe, who calmly converted a penalty awarded in stoppage time of the first half.
The spot-kick was given after Naija Ratels defender Adebayo Jumai handled the ball inside the box. Okpe’s clinical strike beat goalkeeper Faith Omilani and proved the winner.
Rivers Angels’ triumph, their ninth overall, has now ended their six-year drought, having last won the Female Federation Cup in 2018.
Their previous victories were in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017 and 2018.
Head coach Whyte Ogbonda praised his team’s resilience and tactical discipline, crediting their hard work and determination for the historic victory.
Naija Ratels put in a spirited performance, but a resolute Rivers Angels defence ultimately thwarted their efforts.
Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it.
PREMIUM TIMES delivers fact-based journalism for Nigerians, by Nigerians — and our community of supporters, the readers who donate, make our work possible. Help us bring you and millions of others in-depth, meticulously researched news and information.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Will you support our newsroom with a modest donation to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
Goalkeeper Omilani made several crucial saves to keep the scoreline close.
This victory holds special significance for Ogbonda, who previously guided Ibom Angels to runner-up finishes in 2017 and 2018, both times losing to Rivers Angels.
He finally secured his first National Cup title as head coach.
Blessing Okpe’s performance throughout the tournament earned her the Most Valuable Player award, adding to her winning penalty.
Rivers Angels’ Agatha Thompson was also recognised as the competition’s best goalkeeper.
The President Federation Cup, a premier women’s football competition in Nigeria, witnessed intense battles.
Both finalists, Rivers Angels and Naija Ratels, had hard-fought victories in the semifinals, showcasing the high level of competition.
Support PREMIUM TIMES' journalism of integrity and credibility
At Premium Times, we firmly believe in the importance of high-quality journalism. Recognizing that not everyone can afford costly news subscriptions, we are dedicated to delivering meticulously researched, fact-checked news that remains freely accessible to all.
Whether you turn to Premium Times for daily updates, in-depth investigations into pressing national issues, or entertaining trending stories, we value your readership.
It’s essential to acknowledge that news production incurs expenses, and we take pride in never placing our stories behind a prohibitive paywall.
Would you consider supporting us with a modest contribution on a monthly basis to help maintain our commitment to free, accessible news?
TEXT AD: Call Willie - +2348098788999
English (US) ·