Rivers Angels have squandered their ultimate shot at redemption. Days after missing out on the NWFL title to Edo Queens, the Jewels of Rivers failed to bounce back, crashing out of the President Federation Cup on Thursday evening following a narrow defeat to fierce rivals FC Robo Queens.
Ajakaye Opeyemi proved to be the executioner, netting the decisive goal in the 39th minute to hand Robo Queens a hard-earned semi-final ticket.
FC Robo Queens Stun Rivers Angels in Federation Cup Shocker
The defeat officially ends Rivers Angels’ reign as defending champions, leaving them completely empty-handed for the season.
The high-stakes clash carried a bitter history. Both sides recently clashed at the NWFL Super Six tournament in Port Harcourt, where Rivers Angels secured a thrilling 3-2 victory.
However, that triumph meant little in the grand scheme, as both teams ultimate finished level on points at the bottom of the Super Six standings.
President Federation Cup Semi-Final Lineup Confirmed After Quarter-Final Drama
To reach the final eight, Rivers Angels had comfortably dispatched Abia Angels 3-1, while FC Robo Queens earned their spot with an explosive 5-3 victory over Remo Stars Ladies. Yet, when the lights shone brightest, Rivers Angels faltered.
Head coach Tosan Blankson, who had staunchly defended his team against underperformance claims after the Super Six, could only watch in frustration from the sidelines.
His squad’s lack of clinical edge cost them dearly, effectively extinguishing their hopes of retaining the prestigious Federation Cup crown.
Meanwhile, the semi-final lineup for the 2026 President Federation Cup women’s competition is locked in following a day of intense quarter-final drama across the country.
Heartland Queens booked their place in the last four, edging out Ibom Angels 4-2 on penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw in regulation time.
Sunshine Queens advanced courtesy of a gritty, hard-fought 1-0 victory over Confluence Queens.
Nasarawa Amazons pulled off the ultimate upset, overcoming newly-crowned league champions Edo Queens 5-3 in a tense penalty shootout after a goalless stalemate.
With Heartland Queens, Sunshine Queens, Nasarawa Amazons, and FC Robo Queens securing their spots, the race for the 2026 President Federation Cup title is officially wide open.