In a stunning upset, Nigeria National League side Beyond Limits pulled off a remarkable 2-1 victory over topflight team Rivers United in the President Federation Cup round of 32. The match, played under wet conditions at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, saw the second-division side defy the odds to reach the last 16.
The hero of the day was rising star Merveille Akinocho, who continued his impressive goal-scoring form by netting a brace. Fresh from scoring a double in the TCC Cup final on Saturday, Akinocho’s goals gave Olumide Ajibolade’s young side a comfortable two-goal cushion.
However, Rivers United was handed a lifeline when Abass Olasunkanmi scored an own-goal, reducing the deficit to a single goal. Despite the setback, Beyond Limits demonstrated remarkable resilience and determination, holding on to secure a historic win and advance to the last 16 for the first time in their history. This monumental upset is a testament to the team’s growing potential and their ability to compete against more established teams.
Other Wednesday’s President Federation Cup matches saw several thrilling encounters and surprising upsets. Here’s a rundown of the day’s events:
# Close Contests
– Kwara United edged Gombe United 1-0, thanks to Shola Abdulraheem’s second-half goal.
– Christian Nnaji’s solitary strike propelled Enyimba past Elkanemi Warriors.
– Plateau United defeated Sunshine Stars 1-0, with Vincent Temitope scoring the winning goal in the 21st minute.
# Comeback Wins
– Ikorodu City came from behind to beat Crown FC, with Waliu Ojetoye, Yusuf Salau, and Ayomide Cole scoring in the comeback victory.
# One-Sided Affairs
– Akwa United eased past Mighty Jet Feeders 2-0, with Osoba Kabir and Stephen Edidiong scoring for the Promise Keepers.
– Nasarawa United thumped Ijele FC 5-0, with Chidera Nduka, Ugochukwu Leonard, Peter Eneji, and Qamar Adegoke (brace) contributing to the rout.
# Penalty Shootout Drama
– Rangers won 5-3 on penalties against Heartland after the match ended 1-1 in regulation time.
– Osun United progressed past E-World on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
# Upsets
– Solution FC stunned Lobi Stars 2-1.
– Abakaliki FC defeated Katsina United 3-2 on penalties after a goalless draw.
# Other Results
– Bayelsa United defeated FC Basira 2-0.
– Bendel Insurance thrashed Adamawa United, with Kayode Oke scoring a hat-trick.
– Warri Wolves advanced to the next round following Shooting Stars’ disqualification.
