24th July, 2013
Some of Nigeria’s most glamorous clubs will be letting loose their stellar cast as they look to secure tickets to the quarterfinals of the Federation Cup.
The most high profile game comes up at the Area 3 pitch, Abuja where four-time winners, Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) will face two-time winners of the competition, Enyimba.
Enyimba coach, Imama Amapakabo believes the game will be “special” but predicts his side will advance to the last eight.
“I have taken part in this competition as a player with Sharks and Kano Pillars and whenever we play against Shooting Stars, it’s always a special occasion. Today’s game will be no different but I am sure we will win,” Amapakabo believes.
The Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City will be the venue of yet another potentially explosive game as Sharks take on the holders, Heartland FC.
Sharks are in dire straits in the Nigeria Premier League, NPL and captain of the club, Odinga Odinga knows the Federation Cup appears to be the likeliest route to a silverware this term.
“Sharks will not be relegated this season in the NPL but we will be giving the Federation Cup great attention because we want to win it this year for our fans,” he said.
Lower league side and conquerors of four-time champions, Dolphins, Akwa Starlets will have the opportunity to claim less heralded scalp when they face Abia Warriors at the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar.
Three other NPL clubs, Enugu Rangers, Kano Pillars and Sunshine Stars are all in action on Wednesday and are all favoured to advance to the quarterfinals.