Enugu Rangers, last season’s runners-up are set for a crucial match against Nigeria Premier Football League powerhouse Kano Pillars in the standout round 64 contest of this year’s Federation Cup. Meanwhile, reigning champions Bendel Insurance will kick off their title defence against Ogun State-based Nigeria National League outfit, Stormers FC.
The draw for the tournament took place at the Nigeria Football Federation headquarters in Abuja on Thursday.
Bendel Insurance secured the title last season by defeating Rangers 1-0 thanks to a first-half penalty by Osarenkhoe Imade at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, ending their 43-year quest for a domestic championship.
Enyimba, the league champions, are set to clash with Warinje FC from Bauchi, who made it through the national play-offs. Meanwhile, Shooting Stars will face Solution FC from the NNL.
The men’s draw features a mix of second-tier clubs and teams from other divisions, setting the stage for potential upsets. Notable fixtures include struggling NPFL sides Aka United taking on Cynosure FC from Abakaliki, Sunshine Stars against Jedo Academy from Sokoto, and Plateau United meeting Ekiti United, along with Abia Warriors facing Ilaji FC.
Ogun State winners, Beyond Limits, will square off against Hammola FC from the National League One, while Lagos State champions, Ikorodu City, are paired with Green Berets from Kaduna.
In the women’s round of 32 draw, defending champions Bayelsa Queens will take on Bright Future Queens, with last year’s runners-up, Rivers Angels, set to play against Ekiti Queens.
Specific details regarding the dates and venues for the men’s round 64 matches and the women’s round 32 games will be communicated by the NFF at a later time.
During the draw, NFF president Ibrahim Gusau emphasized the federation’s dedication to reviving the prestige of the oldest football tournament in the country, ensuring that the integrity of the competition remains intact throughout both the men’s and women’s events until the grand finale.