Rivers United Survive Major Federation Cup Fright as Akwa United Sink Wilbros FC

Rivers State witnessed two completely different results in the round of 64 of the 2026 President Federation Cup.

While the state champions managed to fight their way through to the next round, the second local representative saw their cup dreams come to a painful end against top-flight opposition.

Rivers United Leave It Late in Benin City

It was far from a comfortable evening for Rivers United as they battled hard to secure their spot in the round of 32.

Facing a resilient G12 FC at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, the Nigeria Premier League side struggled to break down their opponents during a tense, goalless first half.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 77th minute when Iyowuna Douglas found the back of the net to ease the tension for the Port Harcourt side.

Just three minutes later, Chijioke Mbaoma sealed the victory with a brilliant strike, confirming a hard-fought 2-0 win for Finidi George’s men.

Next up, the team faces a massive double-header. They will finish their league campaign against Katsina United this weekend with hopes of stealing the title, right before a massive cup showdown against rivals Enugu Rangers.

Wilbros FC Crash Out After Heavy Defeat

Things did not go as smoothly for the other state representative, as Wilbros FC suffered a heavy defeat at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba.

The lower-league side found it incredibly tough to match the pace and intensity of their top-flight opponents, Akwa United.

The match was dominated from the start by the Promise Keepers, who ran out comfortable 3-0 winners.

Midfielder Aniebiet Sunday did most of the damage, scoring twice in the first half before setting up a third goal for Yannick Menegbe after the break.

While Akwa United now look ahead to a round of 32 clash against El-Kanemi Warriors, Wilbros FC will have to bow out of the tournament and turn their attention back to their domestic league campaign.