By Abraham Terese & Veronica Kume
After a near-impressive Nigeria National League campaign which saw Lobi Stars finish second, just two points behind group leaders Doma United, the Pride of Benue now turn their attention to the Federation Cup with clear ambition and a strong appetite for success.
The President Federation Cup returns with a heavyweight North Central clash on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, as Lobi Stars battle Kogi United FC in the Round of 64 at the Area 3 Playground, Abuja, at 4 p.m.
Having narrowly missed promotion despite a brilliant league run, the Makurdi club approaches this fixture with the determination to give their supporters something memorable.
With captain Solomon Kwambe leading a squad packed with experience and attacking quality, Head Coach John Onuh—a former player of the opponents in his playing days—is expected to carefully deploy the talents of veteran safe hands Daniel Atsaka, rock-solid centre-back Francis Odinaka, goal-hungry Dominic Foga, fleet-footed Suur Kumaga upfront, and Bello Egigogo, who is expected to start in front of the back four, with Akile Monday on the left side of the defence. The lineup promises a fiercely contested encounter.
Kogi United, however, arrive in Abuja carrying serious momentum of their own. The Lokoja side recently sent a powerful message with a crushing 6-0 victory over Beautiful Tour FC, a performance that highlighted their attacking threat and tactical sharpness under Coach Abubakar Musa.
With confidence flowing through their camp, the Kogi outfit will fancy their chances of upsetting their more illustrious neighbours.
Wednesday’s showdown is expected to produce a tense tactical contest, high-tempo football, and the kind of atmosphere only knockout competition can deliver.
For both sides, there will be no room for hesitation as only one ticket to the next round is available.
