The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has dismissed claims by Bayelsa United FC alleging the use of ineligible players by Nasarawa United FC during their Round of 16 clash in the 2025 President Federation Cup.
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The match, held on April 16 in Anyigba, Kogi State, ended 1-1 in regulation time, with Nasarawa United securing a 5-4 victory in the penalty shootout. Shortly after the defeat, Bayelsa United lodged a formal protest, questioning the eligibility of five Nasarawa United players—Detan Ogundare, Emeka Onyema, Ogochukwu Leonard, Solomon Chigozie, and Benjamin Jack.
In a statement released by the NFF, the federation clarified that the five players in question were properly registered and licensed for the tournament.
“The listed players are part of Nasarawa United’s officially submitted squad and were duly issued players’ licenses for the 2025 President Federation Cup,” the NFF noted. “After a thorough review, we find that the protest lacks substance and merit, and is therefore unsuccessful.”
The NFF’s response aims to put to rest speculations that the federation was shielding Nasarawa United, reaffirming its commitment to transparency and fair play in the competition.
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