Enyimba International of Aba minutes ago retained the Nigerian Federation Cup after defeating hard-fighting Dolphins of neighbouring Port Harcourt 2-1 in a thrilling final decided at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
Four-time champions Dolphins had turned on the heat early on and were the more threatening side all through the first half but were denied goals by Enyimba’s solid defending and heroics of goalie Femi Thomas.
The trend of the game changed dramatically when Enyimba Coach Kadiri Ikahana introduced Rasheed Olabiyi and diminutive Nzube Anajemba shortly on the restart. The People’s Elephant swiftly seized control of the midfield and it was not long before the goals started coming to put them on the way to a fourth Federation Cup triumph.
Hot shot Mfom Udoh (the Glo League highest goal scorer) put Enyimba ahead in the 51st minute, waltzing past the Dolphins defence before shooting past veteran goalkeeper Rotimi Sunday.
Chinonso Okonkwo increased the tally in the 72nd minute after pouncing on a sloppy pass from Rotimi and slotting to the far left.
Glo Premier League second highest goal scorer Emem Eduok reduced the tally with Dolphins’ solitary goal in the 79th minute.
In the women’s final decided earlier, Rivers Angels emerged champions after defeating Sunshine Queens of Akure.
Formerly known as the FA Cup, the Federation Cup is Nigeria’s oldest football competition.
•Photo shows Champions Enyimba.
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