De Sapele Lions stun Warri Wolves to lift maiden DFA Arthur Ferdinand Federations Cup


By Maxwell Kumoye 
 
 

De Sapele Lions FC wrote a new chapter in their history on Sunday after edging defending champions Warri Wolves 3-2 on penalties to win their first-ever Delta Football Association Arthur Ferdinand Federations Cup at the Southern Delta University Stadium, Ozoro.

The final, which kicked off late due to the Lions’ delayed arrival following a vehicle breakdown, began with Warri Wolves on the front foot. 

The champions pressed early and nearly took the lead when Igbunu Evwerhurhoma unleashed a curling effort that rattled the crossbar.

After weathering the early storm, De Sapele Lions grew into the contest and controlled proceedings towards the end of the first half. 

The second half saw them push Wolves deep into their own half, with increased intensity and sharper attacking transitions.

The breakthrough arrived in the 68th minute after the introduction of former Delta Force midfielder Adams Balo proved decisive. 

His set-piece delivery was only partially cleared, falling kindly for Harrison Odumosu, who fired home a powerful effort to put the Lions ahead.

Warri Wolves responded quickly. Substitute Peter Ita made an immediate impact just two minutes after coming on, dancing past the Sapele defence before delivering a teasing cross that Emmanuel Arigbogha headed in at the far post in the 73rd minute to restore parity.

With both sides pushing for a winner, the game opened up but clear chances went begging at both ends, sending the final into a tense penalty shootout.

De Sapele Lions held their nerve, converting three of their four spot-kicks, while Warri Wolves faltered, missing three of their five attempts as the Sapele side sealed a dramatic 3-2 shootout victory.

Earlier, Delta Queens successfully defended their title with a 3-1 win over Royal Queens in the women’s final.

Speaking at the event, Delta State Football Association Chairman Chief Godwin Adode praised sponsor Arthur Ferdinand Engineering, noting that the competition remains vital in reviving football development in the state and unearthing local talent.

Chief Idama Amurun, CEO of Arthur Ferdinand Engineering, expressed satisfaction with the quality of football on display and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustaining the partnership, while advocating for a structured league system to nurture young players.

He also announced support packages for the finalists, including jerseys, boots, balls, and prize money:

• ₦3 million for the male champions 
• ₦1 million for runners-up

WOMEN'S PRIZE MONEY 

• ₦1 million - winners 
• ₦500,000 - Runners up

Dignitaries at the final included Nigeria Olympic Committee 1st Vice President Chief Solomon Ogba and Delta State Sports Commission Chairman Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori, alongside other stakeholders.

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