22nd November, 2015
Taiwo Adelu
Akwa United of Uyo defeated Lobi Stars of Makurdi 2-1 to lift the 2015 Federation Cup and secure a Nigerian ticket to play in the CAF Champions League next season.
The Zachary Baraje boys were too much for Justin Tenger side as they survived a second half late scare to run away with the much desired first Federation Cup final victory in the history of Uyo team at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos on Sunday.
Akwa United had their two goals through a free kick goal from Namso Edo in the 55th minute of play, while Abdullafeez Afeez made it second through a tremendous volley that caught Lobi goalkeeper, Agbor Eko napping in the 75th minute.
The Makurdi side, however got their consolatory lone goal of the final in the 88th minute.
Both clubs met earlier this season in the Glo Premier League over two legs. In July, Lobi edged Akwa United by a goal scored by Anthony Okpotu while Akwa United won the reverse game by same margin to stay in the division.
Abdulafeez Awakan scored the winner at the Nest of Champions in Uyo.
With Federation Cup final victory, Akwa United will be given the sum of N2 million, while Lobi get N1 million.
Earlier in the female category, Ondo State’s Sunshine Queens defeated Bayelsa Queens 4-2 via penalty shootout after they played 1-1 in the regulation time.
The winners were given the sum of N1 million, while the runners-up took home N.5 million.