In anticipation of their historic showdown against Abakaliki FC, a club from the second tier league, Kwara United visited the Ilorin palace of His Royal Majesty, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu Gambari, Emir of Ilorin, on Monday to seek his blessing and support.
Leading the delegation, which comprised players, technical staff, and prominent stakeholders of the NPFL club, was Mallam Idris Abdullahi Musa, affectionately known as Thuraya, the Chairman of the Kwara State Football Association (KWSFA).
The state team is set to engage in a compelling contest with the Ebonyi-based side in Lagos, an encounter that football historians are dubbing a momentous clash in the annals of the country’s Challenge Cup finals.
This year, Kwara United has reached both the semi-finals and finals for the first time in their history.
Equally notable, Abakaliki is making its inaugural appearance in the finals.
Moreover, the Ebonyi side, while not the first NNL club to reach the Challenge Cup finals, could potentially become the first third-tier league club, following its relegation this season, to participate in the CAF Champions Cup next season should they claim victory in Lagos.
In articulating the purpose of their visit to the Emir of Ilorin, Thuraya emphasized the profound significance of winning the trophy.
“Many years ago, upon my arrival in Ilorin, I sought your blessing at this very palace.
“Today, Kwara FA has successfully nurtured a team that is competing in the final of Nigeria’s premier football competition.
“We earnestly seek your blessing as our esteemed father and the foremost Patron of Kwara United.
“We implore your paternal support before our journey to Lagos, so that upon our return, we will present to your palace the trophy of the President’s Federation Cup,” Thuraya conveyed.
In response, the Emir expressed his enduring passion for football.
As a former high-ranking official of the NFF and Patron of 3SC of Ibadan during his tenure as a judge in Oyo, the monarch has consistently engaged with the beautiful game.
The Emir prayed for the team’s success in Lagos but cautioned the players against complacency.
“Through diligent effort and strategic acumen, Kwara United will triumph.
“I am confident that Kwara United possesses a commendable team that has exerted tremendous effort to reach the finals.
“God rewards hard work, and thus, He shall crown your endeavors,” the Emir stated.
