This reporter had given it to Kano Pillars and was merely waiting for the number of goal(s) Rangers would pull back before doing a final report.
Alas, it was not to be. The report by www.goal.com tells the full story of the never-say-die spirit of Coal City boys who won on penalties by 4-2:
A brave comeback from Gbenga Ogunbote’s men proved productive as Sai Masu Gida licked their wounds for horrible defending.
Enugu Rangers beat Kano Pillars on penalties to win the 2018 Federation Cup title after completing an implausible fightback at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.
FULL-TIME
Rangers 3-3 Kano Pillars #AITEOCupFinal
⚽️ Kelvin Itoya 77′, Chidera Ezeh 82′, Ajani Ibrahim 90+1′ – Rabiu Ali 5′, Alassan Ibrahim 20′, Nyima Nwagua 48′
In the space of 20 minutes, Rabiu Ali, Alhassan Ibrahim gave the Kano based side a two-goal lead before Nyima Nwagua increased the lead in the 48th minute.
It was a particularly galling end to the game for Sai Masu Gida, after the Flying Antelopes who had dragged themselves level before full time thanks to Kelvin Itoya, Chidera Ezeh and Ajani Ibrahim went ahead to win via kicks from the penalty spot.
With this triumph, Gbenga Ogunbote’s men have now ended their 35-year jinx and will now represent Nigeria in next year’s Caf Confederation Cup.