The excitement of players and fans of the Nigeria National League teams still left in the competition is almost still intact as we approach NFF Fed Cup round of 16.
Of the 16 clubs still involved, 3 are from outside the top flight and of the eight matches scheduled to determine this season’s quarter finalists, 6 are all-Premier League affair. There are three NNL clubs still in the cup, thirteen are still flying the flag for Glo Nigeria Premier League.
There are eight ties taking place across the centres on Wednesday.
•Akwa Starlets vs Abia Warriors
UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar.
Abia Warriors defeated Kaduna United to be in this round. They will be banking on their splendid form in the NNL to un-mask their enemies.
Akwa Starlets have not been consistent in the NNL, but they put that aside to eliminate Dolphins FC. With the Uyo boys still not entirely assured of survival in the always competitive second tier, they won’t want to face the confidence-damaging consequences, defeat to a familiar side.
•Akwa United vs Enugu Rangers
Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.
Justine Tenger may decide to rest a few of his attacking options with the relegation battle in his sights. But the cup is a competition Akwa United must take seriously being as it represents their best chance of winning a silverware. Rangers’ good form has seen them re-emerge as contenders, but they’ll be happy to put all thoughts of league football aside in an effort to inflict more cup misery on the Akwa United.
•Niger Tornadoes vs Warri Wolves
Akure Township Stadium, Akure.
Tornadoes were in dreamland after knocking out Plateau United in the round of 32, a game which they were not given the chance to progress. Bala Nikiyu’s men were fantastic and arguably deserved more headlines than they received. They will be happy to play one of the big boys, in drawing Warri Wolves- from a division above them- they would have felt they had a very fair chance of going on to the quarter finals.
On the other hand, for Wolves the need to pick a continental slot is far more pressing than a cup run, but a good progression should be on the radar of experienced tactician Solomon Ogbeide.
•Heartland FC vs Sharks FC
Ogbe Stadium, Benin.
The Fed Cup looks like the only opportunity to rescue what has been a desperately tupsy-turvy season for Sharks FC. Even a win in the competition in two seasons would probably not be enough to convince Shark's faithfuls, but it would at least provide consolation.
Heartland were terrific in defeating Ingas FC in the last round and have their title on the line.
•Enyimba International vs Shooting Stars
Area 3, Abuja.
GNPL strugglers Shooting Stars SC are attempting to complete the task of knocking out Enyimba in the Fed Cup. Such a feat would be all the more astonishing when you consider the turbulent season the Oluyole Warriors have endured. Coach Hakeem Busari, who masterminded the 1-0 fourth round victory over JUTH FC is under pressure to perform.
With Enyimba’s CAF Champions League ambitions starting to look increasingly optimistic, Sani Salisu may view a strong cup run as a means of a successful end to the season. The Peoples Elephants will have no excuses for underestimating old foes 3SC.
•ABS FC vs Lobi Stars
Bako Kontagora Stadium, Minna.
Two strugglers clash at the bumpy Bako Kontagora Stadium, with ticket to the next round their priority. ABS FC will fancy their chances against Lobi Stars, having pushed both Bayelsa United aside in the previous round.
Coach Ogenyi of Lobi Stars has his arsenal set on the ultra-attacking style which he utilised to great effect against MFM FC.
•Kano Pillars vs Gombe United
Rwang Pam Stadium, Jos.
Kano Pillars have a rich history of doing well in the Premier League in the last five years, but they need a Fed Cup winners medal to complete their dominance, Coach Baba Ganaru might feel his men can afford the luxury of a run to the final. They finished 4th in the last edition. Pillars are in good form with two wins from their last three, but Gombe United can match that statistic and are certain to approach this game with a carefree attitude.
Maurice Cooreman is a regular customer in the history of the competition and United followers should rely on his tactical methods for victory.
•Nasarawa United vs Sunshine Stars
Confluence Stadium, Lokoja
Nasarawa United walloped C.O.D United 4-0, while Sunshine Stars defeated Nembe City 2-1 to get to this round.
Stars gaffer Fatai Folorunsho Amoo aka "Arsenal" knows the tricks of the Fed Cup. He leads his team to face United at the Confluence Stadium. Omeruo netted a brace against Kwara United, and he should be called to action by the soft-spoken coach.
The Lafia boys showed RCCG boys, C.O.D United no mercy, with a four-nil thumping. The Sunshine defence marshalled by Alaba Osawe and Ebenezer Odunlami must watch the dangerous moves of Victor Namo.
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