NNL Shines Bright in President Federation Cup: Chairman Applauds Giant-Killing Feats
The Nigeria National League (NNL) is having a moment to remember in the 2025 President Federation Cup, and its leadership isn’t keeping quiet about it.
In a chat with TalkTalk Nigeria, NNL Chairman George Aluo showered praise on clubs from Nigeria’s second-tier league, following their remarkable run in the country’s oldest football competition.
💥 Giant Killers on the Loose
It’s not every day you see lower-tier teams knocking out heavyweights. But that’s exactly what the NNL sides have done:
Solution FC stunned Lobi Stars in the Round of 32
Beyond Limits shocked Rivers United out of the tournament
And in a real headline-grabber, Abakaliki FC sent Enyimba packing in the Round of 16.
Now, two NNL sides have reached the quarterfinals, proving that football talent is alive and kicking across all tiers of Nigerian football.
🗣️ Chairman's Take
“The performance of the clubs is not bad at all. We have two of them in the last eight,” said Aluo. “Newcomers Abakaliki FC eliminating Enyimba speaks volumes.”
Aluo also pointed out that if not for the fixture draw, Wikki Tourists and Warri Wolves — both NNL sides — might have progressed even further instead of knocking each other out.
✨ Opinion: NNL Deserves the Spotlight
Let’s be real — the NNL often doesn’t get the attention it deserves, but these results should change that narrative. These clubs are not just showing up — they’re playing with heart, strategy, and the hunger of underdogs.
This Federation Cup run is not just a win for the teams; it's a win for grassroots football, talent development, and the future of Nigerian football. Imagine what these clubs could achieve with more funding, facilities, and fan support.
It’s high time stakeholders begin to take the NNL more seriously. The next big stars might just be rising through its ranks.
📆 What’s Next?
With the quarterfinals looming, the big question is: how far can the NNL teams go? If history has taught us anything, it’s never wise to underestimate the underdogs.
#NNLStrong #NigerianFootball #FederationCupDrama #GrassrootsFootball #NaijaTalent #SupportTheLowerLeague
