Rivers Angels head coach, Tosan Blankson, and captain Catherine Kenneth, have expressed strong confidence ahead of their Federation Cup final clash against Nasarawa Amazons, www.aclsports.com reports.
Speaking during the pre-match press conference at the match venue, the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos, Coach Blankson stated that the Federation Cup feels like a birthright for the club, given their rich history in the competition.
“It’s a great pleasure being here. Rivers Angels are not newcomers; we’ve been winning this trophy. The Federation Cup is like a birthright to us, and I know and believe we will lift it again tomorrow. We’re taking the trophy back to Port Harcourt.”
Captain Catherine Kenneth acknowledged the challenge ahead but maintained that the team is focused and determined to reclaim the title.
“The FA Cup is a big one. Winning it last time doesn’t mean it’s guaranteed this time, but we’re here with the same ambition, to lift it again and make Rivers State and our sponsors proud.”
On handling the possibility of complacency, Blankson noted that the current squad is full of fresh faces eager to prove themselves, and as such, there’s no chance of taking the game lightly.
“In football, you’re only as good as your last game. Most of last season’s players are no longer here. These new players are hungry and want to create their own legacy. Complacency is not an option. The state government has encouraged us, and we’re focused.”
Kenneth, when asked about pressure, was calm. “We’re not under pressure. We just want to play our game and win. After what happened in Ikenne, we don’t want to feel that disappointment again. This final is our opportunity to bounce back.”
On learning from their NWFL Super 6 performance, she said, “We don’t suffer the same defeat twice. We learnt from the Super 6 loss to Nasarawa. That’s why this final means a lot, it’s our chance to make up for what we missed.”
Coach Blankson also spoke about facing Nasarawa coach Christopher Danjuma, a respected figure in women’s football. “He’s someone I respect; we were teammates at Plateau United. But on the pitch, there’s no respect. We’re both experienced, and we’ll battle it out. The better team will win.”
Addressing the tactical battle expected, Blankson said his side is prepared for all scenarios, including penalties.
The league and the cup are two different games. If the match gets too difficult to win outright, we’ll plan for penalties. My players are still hurting from Ikenne, this is their moment.”
Blankson also weighed in on GTI’s involvement in Nigerian football, saying, “This is only the second time I’m hearing about GTI. I believe they are doing a good job with the men’s league. If they come into women’s football, they’ll do well. But so far, I haven’t seen them sponsor any female competition.”
Asked in Pidgin about pressure to bring home a trophy for Rivers State after Rivers United’s struggles in the NPFL, Blankson was characteristically bold.
“Before I came to Rivers Angels, I knew Port Harcourt people are serial champions. Even me, I be champion. Tomorrow, we go win the trophy, no matter wetin anybody talk. Nasarawa sabi play ball, but when we enter field, we go know who sabi pass.”
Rivers Angels are gunning for a 10th Federation Cup title, while Nasarawa Amazons are aiming to spoil the party. With both sides determined, fans can expect an intense and entertaining final.
