One man’s meat, they say, is another man poison. Players and officials of Warri Wolves FC are celebrating their qualification to the round of 16 following the disqualification of old war horse, Shooting Stars FC of Ibadan, from the 2025 President Federation Cup.

The Ibadan side was thrown out for allegedly fielding ineligible players in their first-round match against Zamfara United FC. Following the refusal of Zamfara United to show up for the round of 64 match, the Oluyole Warriors had earlier in the day pick round of 32 ticket without kicking the ball at Area 3 field, Abuja.

However, Ruth David, on behalf of the Nigeria Football Federation General Secretary, informed Shooting Stars that five players who were not registered with the Nigeria Football Federation for this year featured in the line-up of the game.

A letter from the NFF to Shooting Stars FC reads: “It has come to our attention that your club fielded five ineligible players who are not registered with the NFF for this edition of the competition.”

These players include: Samuel Okon (Jersey No 21), Sodiq Ibrahim (Jersey No 27), Ephraim Nwachukwu (Jersey No 20), Nonso Nzediegwu (Jersey NO 23) and Ukeme Williams (Jersey No 5).

“By Implication, the licences used by these players were forged. You are therefore disqualified from further participation in the 2025 President Federation Cup.”

The news of the disqualification of Shooting Stars FC from the race was celebrated by players of Warri Wolves FC, who were supposed to be their round of 32 opponents.

Warri Wolves defeated Willbros FC of Port Harcourt 2-0 in Awka, Anambra State, with Jude Ebhohon and Emmanuel Ofem accounting for the two goals to seal their round of 32-ticket. The Seasiders have automatically qualified for the round of 16 without kicking the ball.