Reigning Federation Cup champions, Bendel Insurance will begin the defence of their title against Nigeria National League side, Stormers Football Club of Abeokuta, Ogun State.
This was the result of the draw for this year’s tournament conducted at the Nigeria Football Federation secretariat in Abuja on Thursday.
Edo State’s second representative, Ine Stars were draw against Kebbi United in the round of 64 while last season’s runners-up, Enugu Rangers face a crunch fixture against fellow Nigeria Premier Football League giants, Kano Pillars in the biggest clash of the round.
League champions Enyimba International are up against Warinje FC from Bauchi while Shooting Stars Sports Club have a date with NNL side, Solution FC.
Ogun State winners, Beyond Limits will face National League One side, Hammola FC just as Lagos State champions Ikorodu City are drawn against Green Berets of Kaduna.
With the second-tier clubs and other divisions dominating the men’s draw, there will be room for upsets in the round, which will also see the likes of struggling NPFL sides Akwa United face Cynosure FC of Abakaliki, Sunshine Stars versus Jedo Academy of Sokoto, Plateau United against Ekiti United, just as Abia Warriors play Ilaji FC.
In the women’s round of 32 draw, cup holders Bayelsa Queens are up against Bright Future Queens while Edo Queens are up against Kada Queens of Kaduna.
The other club from Edo, Fortress Ladies will face Delta Queens while last year’s runners-up, Rivers Angels will take on Ekiti Queens.
The dates and venues of the men’s round of 64 matches and the women’s round off 32 games will be announced later by the NFF.
Reacting to the draws, NFF president Ibrahim Gusau said the federation was committed to restoring the glitz and glamour of the oldest football competition in the country, pledging that the integrity of the tournament would be maintained all through.