More Federation Cup shocks were recorded on Thursday as Premier League
sides: Kano Pillars, Sunshine Stars and Akwa United were all knocked
out of the competition.
Pillars were ousted following a 2-1 loss at the hand of NNL side,
Gateway of Abeokuta.
Akwa United, another Premier League side were also booted out as they
fell 2-1 to FC Abuja. Sunshine Stars also suffered the same fate via
1-0 loss to Insurance of Benin.
Gombe United became the first victims of the FA Cup shocks, as they
did not survive Baton FC, suffering a 2-1 defeat.
But Rangers International of Enugu ensured progress as they rode on
Osaguona Ighodalo’s two goals to see off Ikpeazu FC
Shooting Stars of Ibadan also progressed with a 2-0 win over Dalhatu
FC, and Lobi Stars triumphed over Niger Tornadoes feeder team 2-0.
Holders Enyimba International of Aba and past winners, Heartland
survived scare from minnows Sokoto North FC and Ebonyi United,
respectively to progress to the next round of the cup competition.
Enyimba had to come from a goal down to beat Sokoto North FC 3-1 in
Abuja. Enyimba scored three goals in six minute to see off the
stubborn non-league side.
Uche John scored from the spot kick to restore parity for Enyimba,
before Kingsley Sokari and Abdulrahman Bashir sealed the victory.
In Umuahia, Heartland, who won the trophy in 2012 and 2013 recovered
to beat Ebonyi United 4-3 through penalties after the game ended 1-1
in regulation time.
Happy Okuoka equalized for the Naze Millionaires in the 87th minute to
drag the game to penalties.
Heartland goalkeeper, Emmanuel Philip was the hero as he saved two
penalty kicks.
Sharks also survived Kwara United’s onslaught as they won 4-3 on
penalties after the game ended 1-1 in Benin City.
