Sunshine Stars U-19 Stun Niger Tornadoes in Federation Cup Shock

By Kanu Samuel

Sunshine Stars U-19 produced one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 President Federation Cup after defeating Nigeria Premier Football League side Niger Tornadoes 2-1 at the Ilorin Stadium.

The Ondo State youth side made a blistering start to the encounter, taking the lead through Khalleel Nurudeen in the opening stages of the game.

Moments later, Ugochukwu Laurence doubled the advantage for the N-Youth League campaigners with a superb strike, leaving the more experienced Niger Tornadoes side stunned.

Despite attempts by the NPFL outfit to respond before the interval, Sunshine Stars U-19 defended resolutely to preserve their two-goal cushion heading into half-time.

Niger Tornadoes returned strongly after the break and reduced the deficit early in the second half, setting up a tense finish at the Ilorin Stadium.

However, the young Sunshine Stars side showed composure and discipline in defence to frustrate their opponents and hold on for a memorable victory in the country’s oldest football competition.

The result continues an impressive Federation Cup campaign for the Ondo-based side, who had earlier defeated Harmony FC 3-1 in the play-offs before eliminating Niger Tornadoes.

Speaking after the match, Sunshine Stars U-19 coach Adenike Ayeni praised her players for their determination and commitment to the game plan.

“I thank God that we defeated the NPFL side, but the victory was not without some mistakes, which we will address when we return to base,” Ayeni said.

“I must commend the management of the team, led by the chairman, Divine Ogbonaya, for their commitment and support.

“We are going back home to work on some areas where we felt we did not perform well.

“We are not going to be complacent. We will approach every game as it comes and remain focused on both the Federation Cup and our remaining N-Youth League matches.

My target is to lift the trophy, I have done as a player of Sunshine Queens captain and I wish to to do it again as the U-19 head coach.

“I thank all our supporters at home and abroad for their support. We will continue to do our best to make our supporters happy.”