NNL Chairman, Aluo congratulates second-tier clubs over performances in 2024 President Federation Cup

Posted : 31 May 2024

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George Aluo, Chairman of the Nigeria National League (NNL) Board, has showered praise on the second-tier domestic league clubs, Kebbi Utd, Sokoto Utd, El-Kanemi Warriors, and EFCC following their impressive performances in the 2024 President Federation Cup.

Aluo, a veteran journalist, spoke in light of the NNL clubs' performances in Wednesday's Round of 16 matches, with no fewer than five NNL clubs securing their places in the quarterfinals. This made the quarterfinals predominantly NNL club fixtures, with the potential for at least two NNL clubs to reach the semifinals.

"I'm happy. I'm proud of the clubs. They have made us proud. They have proved that indeed, the NNL is the most important league in Nigeria," said Aluo.

Sokoto Utd caused a major upset by defeating the four-time champions and Nigeria's most successful club, Enyimba, 1-0 in one of the most shocking results of the day.

In another remarkable feat, Kebbi Utd also halted the march of another NPFL club, Akwa United, with a 1-0 victory.

Elsewhere, El-Kanemi Warriors defeated the previously dominant Shooting Stars 1-0 to secure a spot in the quarterfinals, while Inter Lagos defeated ambitious Ikorodu City 5-4 on penalty kicks after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. This brought the total number of NNL clubs in the quarterfinals to five.

"It has never happened like this before, with five NNL clubs in the FA Cup quarterfinals, leaving NPFL teams with only three slots. It's unbelievable," added Aluo.

"They have proven that the future and strength of our football lie in these youngsters playing in the NNL. They have earned the title of 'Ambassadors' of the NNL, and I can only congratulate them and their management."

"With five slots in the Round of eight (8), and with fixtures already determined, the NNL is certain to have a minimum of two slots in the semifinals."

However, Aluo urged the clubs to prepare for tougher challenges ahead.

"We're taught in Geography in Secondary School that 'the higher you go, the cooler it becomes.' We have to realize that in the practical reality of everyday life, especially in sports, football in particular, the more you progress, the tougher the games become," noted Aluo.

"So, it's important to urge our 'Ambassadors' that this is the business end of the campaign. It's important they work harder for the upcoming games."

In the quarterfinal fixtures, EFCC will face Kebbi United in an 'NNL Derby,' while El-Kanemi Warriors will take on Inter Lagos in another 'NNL Derby.' Enyimba's conquerors, Sokoto Utd, will face Abia Warriors, and Sunshine Stars will challenge Kano Pillars in the only 'NPFL Derby' of the quarterfinals.

NNL Chairman, Aluo congratulates second-tier clubs over performances in 2024 President Federation Cup

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