- Shola Shobowale scored two early goals for Nasarawa Amazons.
- Taiwo Ajibade, former Nigeria U17 captain, led Rivers’ comeback with a crucial goal.
- Goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi made key saves and scored the winning penalty.
- Rivers Angels won ₦25 million in prize money and the Best Goalkeeper award.
Rivers Angels completed a dramatic comeback to defeat Nasarawa Amazons on penalties and secure their 10th President Federation Cup title at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.
After trailing 0-2 at halftime, the Port Harcourt-based side rallied to draw level in regulation time before winning 4-2 on penalties, clinching their 10th national cup title, a historic feat in Nigerian women’s football.
Rivers Angels player dazzling with the ball.
The final kicked off with a flurry of action as Shola Shobowale, a former youth international, stunned the crowd by scoring two goals for Nasarawa Amazons in the 8th and 20th minutes. Her clinical finishing gave the Lafia side a 2-0 lead heading into the break, silencing the typically vocal Rivers Angels supporters.
Rivers Angels and Nasarawa Amazons contesting for the ball
Shobowale’s impressive performance earned her the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
“It’s a bittersweet moment for me,” Shobowale said. “We wanted the trophy, but I’m proud of our performance today.” – via Punch NG
Rivers Angels returned from the break with renewed determination. In the 57th minute, Taiwo Ajibade, a former Nigeria U-17 captain, halved the deficit with a well-placed strike. Minutes later, the team equalized, sending the match into a tense penalty shootout.
Goalkeeper Anderline Mgbechi was the hero of the night, making crucial saves and converting the decisive penalty herself.
“We never gave up. We played with the belief that we could still win this, and we did,” said Matilda Otuenne, Rivers Angels’ Team Manager.
Final Score:
Rivers Angels 2-2 Nasarawa Amazons (Rivers Angels won 4-2 on penalties)
Winner: Rivers Angels
Runner-Up: Nasarawa Amazons
Best Goalkeeper: Anderline Mgbechi (Rivers Angels)
Top Scorer: Abasi Ofon Uwa (Ibom Angels FC)
With this victory, Rivers Angels FC secure their place in the upcoming CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers, boosting Nigeria’s continental football reputation.
“This win is for all the fans, the state, and women’s football in Nigeria. Our journey continues,” said Vice Admiral Ibas, Sole Administrator of Rivers State Football.
Learn more about the CAF Women’s Champions League
External References:
- Original Source: Premium Times Nigeria
- NFF Official Federation Cup News
- CAF Women’s Champions League Info
