Akwa United Coach Kennedy Boboye Aims for Federation Cup Glory as a Coach, 20 Years After Winning It as a Player.
Coach Kennedy Boboye of Akwa United has expressed his desire to win the President Federation Cup, two decades after claiming the title as a player, Sports247 reports.
Speaking to the club’s media team ahead of their Round of 64 Federation Cup clash against Kebbi United on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, in Abuja, Boboye shared his ambition of lifting the prestigious trophy as a coach.
Akwa United, two-time winners of the national competition in 2015 and 2017, are favorites to avenge last year’s defeat against Kebbi United, who eliminated them in the Round of 32.
Boboye described the competition as unpredictable due to its high tendency for upsets. He emphasized that he would not underestimate the Nigeria National League (NNL) side, as he is determined to secure the trophy—just as he did in 2005 while playing for Dolphins FC.
“The FA Cup is a tricky competition because it is full of surprises. This is a fresh opportunity for us and a great avenue to secure continental football next season. We cannot afford to underrate any team; we must give our best in every match to go all the way,” Boboye stated.
“I won the FA Cup as a player in 2005 with Dolphins, but I haven’t won it as a coach. I would love to achieve that this year with Akwa United.”
Boboye further emphasized the importance of the tournament, expressing the team’s readiness to capitalize on the opportunity to compete at the continental level.
“The FA Cup is not new to Akwa United, having won it twice (2015 and 2017). Winning it for the third time in ten years would be a great honor for us and our fans.”
A victory over Kebbi United would see Akwa United advance to the Round of 32, bringing them one step closer to representing Nigeria in the CAF Confederation Cup later this year.
