Nasarawa Amazons head coach Christopher Danjuma and midfielder Joy Igbokwe are expressing confidence ahead of their clash against defending champions Rivers Angels in the 2025 Federation Cup final, www.aclsports.com reports.
Coach Danjuma, reflecting on the team’s journey, described reaching the final as both emotional and rewarding.
“I am delighted to be here. We’re not taking it for granted. The Federation Cup is a glorious and glamorous competition. We didn’t start the season well, but we told ourselves we must be heard and recognised.”
For Igbokwe, the occasion represents both pride and purpose.
“It’s a great opportunity for my teammates and coach. It hasn’t been easy, but by the special grace of God, we’re here. We want to say thank you to our fans, and we’re assuring them: this trophy is coming back to Nasarawa State.”
Danjuma will be without two key players, goalkeeper Udoka Unachukwu and defender Isah Sikirat, who are away on national team duty with the Super Falcons. However, he remains unfazed.
“I don’t build a team around one or two individuals. It’s about the collective. Yes, their contributions are important, but their absence won’t stop us. The team is ready.”
Following their narrow miss in the NWFL Super 6, where they finished second, Danjuma insists the team’s mindset remains focused.
“It’s all about optimal mentality. We were close to winning the league, and now we have another chance. It’s one game, 90 minutes. We must raise our mentality beyond what we’ve done before.”
Igbokwe echoed that sentiment, calling the final a chance for redemption.
“We’re excited. We want to be here, and we’re going to give our best. This is our moment.”
Asked how they plan to overcome nine-time champions Rivers Angels, Igbokwe remained confident:
“Rivers Angels are a good side, but so are we. We’re not going to take this opportunity for granted. We’re going to give our best and take the title, at all costs.”
Having previously faced Rivers Angels during her time with Naija Ratels, Igbokwe believes that experience will be crucial.
“This is my second time facing them. I believe in this team, and we have what it takes. This cup is going back to Nasarawa.”
Coach Danjuma, who also leads Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, was asked about the significance of reaching another major final and the development of local coaching in Nigeria. He was quick to praise his colleagues.
“The coaches in this league have done an excellent job. The kind of teams they’ve built and the quality of football we’ve seen in this competition are commendable. It’s not just about winning, it’s about producing players who can represent Nigeria well, especially outside Africa. Reaching the final is important, but what’s more important is ensuring that our teams and players contribute to the future of Nigerian football.”
As Nasarawa Amazons aim for their third Federation Cup title, one thing is clear: they’re not just showing up, they’re aiming to conquer
