Adamawa United will face Sokoto United in the Round of 16 of the Federation Cup after overcoming Sapele Lions 4-2 on penalties following a goalless draw at the Aper Aku Stadium in Benue State.
The victory keeps Adamawa United’s campaign alive and sets up a crucial clash against Sokoto United, with a place in the quarter-finals at stake.
Adamawa United, who qualified for the national competition after winning the state edition, held their nerve in the shootout to eliminate Sapele Lions and progress to the next round.
Speaking to sports journalists in Yola, the club’s secretary, Dr Yusuf Chidama, attributed the team’s progress to the leadership of the club chairman, Hon. Bulus Daniel, and the squad’s determination to justify Governor Ahamadu Umar Fintiri’s investment in the team.
Chidama also commended the management, technical crew, backroom staff and players for their commitment throughout the competition.
The Secretary said, “We are going all out for victory. Sokoto Utd FC is not new to us, and records have shown that Adamawa United has always had the upper hand over them, but I can assure you that we are not just looking at the past history but at current realities; our boys are good and determined.
“We hope to get to the final stages of this competition, like you already did, the narrowly missed promotion to the elite league competition, and we hope to continue to improve on our performance and justify the government investment on the clubs.”
Sokoto United secured their place in the Round of 16 with a 1-0 victory over defending champions Kwara United, while Adamawa United advanced after their penalty shootout success against Sapele Lions.
Both teams will meet on June 6 at the Area 3 Sports Ground in Abuja as they battle for a place in the quarter-finals of the competition.
