By Amaechi Agbo

2018 winners and 2023 finalists, Rangers International FC were on Monday eliminated from this year’s Federation Cup after losing 3-2 to Rivers United.

In the Round of 32 fixture held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Rangers were down 2-0 at half time but scored two goals in the second half, though United sustained their lead to progress into the next stage of the Cup.

Also, Bayelsa United were sent packing from the federation Cup after losing to Wikki Tourists

The race for the 2026 President Federation Cup intensified on Wednesday as teams battled fiercely across the country in the Round of 32, producing dramatic penalty shootouts, giant-killing performances, and thrilling encounters.

One of the biggest upsets of the round saw Sokoto United edge Kwara United 1-0 to book a place in the last 16, while Adamawa United survived a tense penalty shootout against Sapele Lions after a goalless draw, winning 4-2 on penalties.

Former champions Bendel Insurance delivered a commanding performance, defeating Crown FC 3-1, while El-Kanemi Warriors overcame Akwa United 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

There was heartbreak for Shooting Stars as they bowed out after a 4-5 penalty defeat to Kada Warriors following a 1-1 stalemate. Wikki Tourists, meanwhile, secured a convincing 3-1 victory over Bayelsa United to advance.

Bida Lions continued their impressive run with a 2-0 triumph over Warri Wolves, while Flight FC edged Mighty Jets FC 5-4 on penalties after both sides finished regulation time deadlocked at 1-1.

In one of the most entertaining fixtures of the round, Rivers United defeated Rangers International 3-2 in a five-goal thriller to secure passage to the Round of 16. Nasarawa United also progressed comfortably after a walkover victory against Ejigbo City.

Plateau United narrowly defeated Kogi United 1-0, while FC Basira emerged victorious in a marathon penalty shootout, defeating Ingas FC 8-7 after a 1-1 draw.

Nigeria Premier Football League side Ikorodu City continued their impressive campaign with a 2-0 victory over Jigawa Golden Stars, while Enyimba FC edged Gombe United 1-0 to set up a mouthwatering Round of 16 clash.

Sunshine Stars U-19 underlined their giant-killing credentials with a 2-1 win over Warinje FC, and Barau FC secured a narrow 1-0 victory against Abakaliki FC to complete the Round of 16 line-up.

The Round of 16 promises more exciting outcomes Rivers United battling Nasarawa United while Ikorodu City will lock horns with Enyimba FC.

The Round of 16 Fistures nclude: Sokoto United vs Adamawa United, Bendel Insurance vs El-Kanemi Warriors, Kada Warriors vs Wikki Tourists, Bida Lions vs Flight FC, Rivers United vs Nasarawa United, Plateau United vs FC Basira, Ikorodu City vs Enyimba FC and Sunshine Stars U-19 vs Barau FC

With several traditional powerhouses still in contention and a number of underdogs continuing their dream runs, the battle for the 2026 President Federation Cup title is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions in recent years.