Defending champions of the Nigeria Federation Cup, Heartland, were eliminated from this year’s tournament by Akwa United in the quarter-finals in Ilorin on Wednesday.
David Tyavkase got Heartland in the lead in the 43rd minute but 19 minutes into the second period, Akwa United drew level through Ini Akpan as both teams played the last 26 minutes without any further effect on the 1-1 outcome.
Heartland lost 4-5 on penalties, bringing to an end their two-year reign as Cup champions.
Two-time CAF Champions League winners Enyimba progressed into the last four following their 1-0 win over Nasarawa United in Wednesday’s early kick-off at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.
Bobby Sokari’s 55th minute goal made the difference as Enyimba now proceeds to the semi-finals against another former winner, Lobi Stars- 2-1 winners over Akwa Starlets.
Warri Wolves, who defeated Kano Pillars 3-0 in Ilorin, will face Akwa United in the last-four fixtures.
Federations Cup Results:
Heartland 1-1 Akwa United (Akwa United Progress 5-4 on penalties.)
Lobi Stars 2-1 Akwa Starlets.
Warri Wolves 3-0 Kano Pillars.
Nasarawa United 0-1 Enyimba.
