The 2023-24 Imo state Federation Cup competition which kicks off at a later date has thrown up mouthwatering fixtures including first round tie between former Nigeria National League (NNL) side, Campos FC and Nigeria Nationwide League Two side, Ikukuoma FC.
It is billed as the competition’s opening game following the draw held at the Imo FA Office, Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri on Thursday.
According to the draw conducted by the Imo FA and supervised by its Secretary, Godfrey Ndudi, last year’s Imo FA Cup finalists, Fr. Eburuaja will confront Ebube FC while multiple FA Cup champions, Heartland FC will face King David FC.
An unknown Emmanuel FC received a bye to the next round as there are 11 teams that registered for this year’s FA Cup. Emmanuel FC will face the winner of Campos FC and Ikukuoma FC tie in the quarter final.
Malick Pro FC will slug it out with Sam Tonio FC while Heartland Feeders will try to unsettle scouting team, Bazo FC.
While 11 teams will take part in the men’s Imo Federation Cup only one team, Heartland Queens FC will be flying the state’s flag at the National finals with all other women’s team failing to meet up with the registration deadline.
Imo Strikers Queens FC and First Mahi are notable absentees in the competition this year.
Chairman of the Imo State Football Association, Barr Ifeanyi Dike said the Federation Cup will unify teams, supporters and raise fresh players for export.
Dike announced that the venue and time for each match will be disclosed 24 hours before the game and called for good sportsmanship among the clubs.
He reiterated the mandate to grow grassroots football in the state and called for corporate and private sponsors of the tournament.
Further, he assured of adequate security of match officials and supporters even as he cautioned against any form of hooliganism.
Meanwhile, supporters of the different teams have expressed optimism that their preferred team will clinch the trophy even as they pledged support during matches.
Below is the breakdown of the draw:
Match 1
Campos FC vs Ikukuoma FC
Match 2
Heartland Feeders vs Bazo FC
Match 3
Heartland FC vs King David FC
Match 4
Fr Eburuaja vs Ebube FC
Match 5
Malick Pro FC VS Sam Tonio FC
Match 6
Emmanuel FC VS winner Match 1
Match 7
Winner Match 2 VS winner Match 3
Match 8
Winner Match 4 VS Winner Match 5
Venue and time of each match will be officially announced 24 hours before the match.
