2026 President Federation Cup: Dogo hails El-Kanemi Warriors’ qualification for quarter-finals

El-Kanemi Warriors FC staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Bendel Insurance FC 8-7 on penalties in a thrilling Round of 16 match in the 2026 President's Federation Cup. The Nigerian Premier League side secured their spot in the quarter-finals after a dramatic 3-3 draw in regulation time.

The match, held at the FIFA Goal Project Pitch in Abuja, saw Bendel Insurance establish a commanding 3-0 lead in the first half. However, El-Kanemi Warriors mounted an incredible resurgence after the break, netting three goals to level the score before triumphing in the penalty shootout. Head Coach Kabiru Dogo lauded his players' performance as "fantastic," commending their resilience and determination.

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I congratulate my boys for this well-deserved victory. We were 3-0 down at halftime, but after the break the team came out well prepared. We fought back to make it 3-1, then 3-2, and eventually 3-3 before winning on penalties.

"I congratulate my boys for this well-deserved victory. We were 3-0 down at halftime, but after the break the team came out well prepared," Dogo told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). "We fought back to make it 3-1, then 3-2, and eventually 3-3 before winning on penalties." He emphasized the "miracle" of the comeback, highlighting the team's strong desire to win.

Dogo expressed confidence in his team's potential to go all the way in the tournament, despite the tough competition. He stated that any team reaching the quarter-finals is a contender and that El-Kanemi Warriors, as an NPFL side, are capable of performing against any opponent. The team now awaits confirmation of the venue and date for their quarter-final clash against Sokoto United.

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They came all out and showed how much they wanted the victory. The miracle of that match was repeated here today.