Enyimba through to Cup final

Source: Folu Taiwo

Two-time African champions, Enyimba, have reached the final of this year's Federation Cup after defeating Lobi Stars 1-0 in a semifinal match on Wednesday.

It was a second half finish by Ifeanyi Ede that ensured the People's Elephant reach their fifth Cup final in eight years.

Salisu Yusuf's men got off fast out of the blocks with the Aba club getting five corner kicks inside the opening quarter of an hour in spite of their big stars, Bishop Onyeudo, Daniel Etor, Emeka Nwanna and Victor Ezeji being cup-tied.

But Lobi Stars created the best scoring chances and their conversion proved their Achilles heels.

The best chance of the opening half saw Chimaobi Nwaogu's header come off the woodwork with Enyimba goalkeeper, Femi Thomas well beaten.

In the restart, Yusuf threw in attacking winger Chimezie Amanfor and his dribble runs created problems for Lobi's backline.

On 59 minutes, Ede turned in Bright Esieme's assist for what turned out the winner.

In Bauchi, the other semifinals between Akwa United and Warri Wolves was called off with 10 minutes to time owing to heavy rain.

After a goalless first half, Akwa United took the lead inside the last 20 minutes through Ukeme Davies before Oghenekaro Etebo evened scored for Wolves.

No decision has been made on the called off game by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Enyimba now await the winners of the Akwa United versus Warri Wolves game ahead of the September 15 Federation Cup final at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos.