Akwa Ibom State Federation Cup: Eagle Eye Academy Outshines Heaven’s Race Academy on Penalties to Reach Historic Final
In a thrilling All-Academies semi-final at the 2025 Akwa Ibom State Federation Cup, Eagle Eye Academy triumphed over Heaven’s Race Academy in a penalty shootout, winning 3-0 after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. The hero of the day was goalkeeper Uko Nkanga, who saved all three penalty kicks from Heaven’s Race Academy, showcasing his incredible shot-stopping ability.
The match, played on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at the Uyo Township Stadium, saw Eagle Eye take an early lead through Francis Izuchukwu. However, Heaven’s Race Academy captain Christian Ekong quickly equalised. The rest of the game was filled with tense moments, as both teams had plenty of chances to score, but the match remained level at 1-1 when the final whistle blew, sending the game to penalties.
In the shootout, Nkanga’s heroics continued as he kept out every penalty from the opposition, a true reflection of his reputation as a penalty-saving specialist. Having already been named the goalkeeper of the tournament in the Akwa Ibom State Academies Championship, Nkanga’s performance was no surprise to those who have seen his talent on display.
With the pressure on and his teammate walking up to take the final kick, Nkanga coolly signalled for him to step aside. He then confidently slotted the winning penalty to seal a 3-0 victory for Eagle Eye Academy, securing their place in the Federation Cup final for the first time in the club’s history.
Eagle Eye Academy will now face the winner of the second semi-final between defending champions Akwa United FC and Godswill Akpabio United FC, which will be held on Friday, February 21, 2025, at the Uyo Township Stadium. The final match will take place on Sunday, February 23, 2025.
This victory marks a historic achievement for Eagle Eye Academy, who will now look to make their mark on the national stage as one of the two teams representing Akwa Ibom in the 2025 President Federation Cup finals.
