By Aderonke Ojo
Derby Football Academy on Wednesday defeated RBM Sports of Kubwa 4-1 on penalties after a goalless draw in a Round of 32 match of the ongoing 2026 FCT President Federation Cup.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the competition, which commenced on March 30, is being held at the Area 3 Football Pitch in Abuja.
In a tightly contested encounter, both sides struggled to break the deadlock in regulation time, with few clear-cut chances created as the teams displayed defensive discipline.
Derby FA showed more composure in the penalty shootout, converting four of their kicks, while RBM Sports managed just one, sealing Derby’s progression to the Round of 16.
Speaking after the match, Head Coach of Derby FA, Aluko Awolowo, described the encounter as difficult, noting that initial logistical issues affected his team psychologically.
“It was a tough game for us because we came in unsettled due to incorrect timing, which affected the players mentally.
“This is our third appearance in this type of competition and we are determined to go beyond our previous quarter-final we finished in 2025.
“We are going back to the training ground to review this game, identify what we did well and where we need improvement. This time, our target is to win the trophy,” he said.
Also speaking, Head Coach of RBM Sports, Emmanuel David, commended his players for their performance but lamented their inability to convert chances.
“The boys played very well, but football is about taking your chances.
“ We gave our all against a strong Derby FA side, but we couldn’t convert our opportunities, and that made the difference,” he said.
He noted that although penalty shootouts can be unpredictable, his team would learn from the defeat and focus on upcoming competitions.
“We will keep working hard. We have the Nationwide League One (NLO one ) ahead, and we are preparing for it. We will improve and address our weaknesses,” he said .
In another Round of 32 encounter, Sporting Supreme FC recorded a resounding 9-0 victory over PXA FC, in one of the highest-scoring matches of the tournament so far, to book their place in the Round of 16.
NAN also reports that the 2026 FCT President Federation Cup features 32 teams in the men’s category and two teams in the women’s category. ( NAN)