Yahaya Ibrahim Reacts to Kwara United’s President Cup Semifinal Victory Over Rangers

Kwara United’s young right-back, Yahaya Ibrahim, has expressed joy and gratitude following his team’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Rangers International FC of Enugu in the semifinals of the President Federation Cup.

The match, played in Lagos, saw Kwara United edge past the more fancied Rangers International FC side thanks to a lone goal from Wasiu Alalade. It was a stunning turnaround, especially considering Rangers had beaten Kwara United 3-0 earlier in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season and secured a draw in the reverse fixture in Ilorin.

For Yahaya, who just a year ago was playing academy football with Blessed Stars Academy, this semifinal win is a major personal and professional milestone.

Speaking to SportsRation’s Nsikakabasi Akpan, Yahaya said: “At this time last year, I was still playing academy football and dreaming of moments like this. Honestly, I didn’t see myself getting this far so soon, but Alhamdulillah for everything I’ve achieved this season. It’s been a blessing.”

Reflecting on the game, the youngster pointed out that Rangers may have underestimated Kwara United based on previous results.

“They beat us well in the league and maybe felt it would be the same, but we came with a different mindset. This time, they met a Kwara United team that was hungry, focused, and determined to make history.”

Yahaya is now focused on the final and determined to help his side win their first President Cup title in 49 years. “We’re in the final now, but the job is not done. We want to give everything to win the trophy and qualify for the CAF Confederation Cup. That would be a dream come true for the club and for me personally.”

Kwara United will now face surprise finalists Abakiliki FC, the tournament’s giant killers in what promises to be a thrilling final match.