By Aderonke Ojo
Wikki Tourists’ impressive run in the 2026 President Federation Cup came to an end on Wednesday following a 3-1 defeat to El-Kanemi Warriors in the semi-final encounter played at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina.
The Bauch side went into the highly anticipated fixture with confidence after a remarkable journey to the last four of the competition, however, El-Kanemi Warriors took control of the game early and scored three goals in the first half to establish a comfortable lead before the interval.
On resumption of the second half, Wikki Tourists showed great determination and resilience as they searched for a way back into the game. Their efforts paid off when leading striker Imamu Bala Magaji converted a penalty kick to reduce the deficit.
Despite mounting pressure on their opponents, the Tourists were unable to find additional goals as El-Kanemi Warriors held on to secure victory and a place in the final.
Reacting after the match, Wikki Tourists Head Coach Evans Ogenyi described the result as disappointing, noting that it brought an end to the club’s Federation Cup campaign.
“The result is disappointing because it has brought an end to our campaign in the competition.
We did our best to win and qualify for the final, but God has destined that this is how far we can go,” Ogenyi stated.
The coach revealed that his team faced some challenges ahead of the encounter, disclosing that a key player Abba Musa fell ill and had to be replaced at the last minute before kickoff with other adjustments in the line up tempering the earlier game plan.
He also cited the team’s late arrival in Katsina, which he said created stress and affected the players’ preparations for the crucial fixture.
Despite the setback, Ogenyi commended his players and members of his technical crew for their dedication and commitment throughout the competition.
“I want to appreciate the players and my technical team for their hard work and sacrifice.
Considering the situation I met when I was appointed and had to manage what was ground, reaching the semi-final and finishing among the last four teams in the competition is a commendable achievement,” he added.
The tactician further appealed to the club’s stakeholders to ensure early preparations for future competitions and league matches, stressing that proper planning and timely arrival at match venues would help avoid challenges associated with last-minute travels.
Although the journey has ended, Wikki Tourists can take pride in a commendable Federation Cup campaign that saw them eliminate strong opponents and reach the semi-final stage of Nigeria’s oldest football competition.
