Heartland, Pillars Shocked Out Of Federation Cup

The intrigues and upsets that characterise the Federation Cup were prevalent in the quarter-final matches on Wednesday as holders Heartland FC and League champions Kano Pillars were knocked out of Nigeria’s oldest football competition.

Heartland missed the chance to defend the Federation Cup for a second successive year as they lost 5-4 to Akwa United on penalties. David Tyavkase gave the Naze Millionaires the lead, but the Promise Keepers equalized and went on to claim victory in the resulting penalty shootout.

Akwa United were also responsible for the ousting of Enugu Rangers in the previous round.

Warri Wolves produced a scintillating performance to knock Kano Pillars out of the Fed Cup. Najare Musa bagged a brace in the first half, while a further goal from Oghenekaro Etebo sealed the win for the Seasiders.

A goal from Kingsley Sokari helped Enyimba to a slim 1-0 win over Nasarawa United to secure a place in the semi-finals.

In Enugu, a late goal from Victor Obinna Jnr helped Lobi Stars to a 2-1 win over a very stubborn Akwa Starlets.

Chimaobi Nwaogu had put Lobi in front as early as the third minute, but the impressive Utibe Archibong equalized for the NNL side in the 32nd minute, with his fourth goal in the competition this season.