The Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) reignited their long-running football rivalry at the fifth Ogun SWAN Security Cup Grand Final held at the MKO Abiola Stadium Abeokuta on Friday, setting up another thrilling battle for glory and power.
The police apparatus, renowned for its commanding presence on and off the field, once again proved its mettle, easily advancing to the final after defeating the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) 5-0 in the semi-finals.
Meanwhile, the resilient NSCDC secured their spot in the tournament with a narrow 1-0 victory over the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The final marked a new chapter in the intense football rivalry between the two major security agencies – a rivalry that has dominated the tournament’s history since its inception.
In 2021, the National Security Service Football Team (NSCDC) made a splash in the inaugural tournament, defeating Police Machine 1-0 to lift the trophy. But the tide turned: in 2023, the Police team exacted revenge, defeating NSCDC 2-1 and claiming the top prize of 500,000 naira.
In 2024, the Police team continued their dominance, securing a thrilling 4-2 penalty shootout victory in the semi-finals.
This year’s tournament was no less captivating. Police Machine had already defeated NSCDC 4-3 in a thrilling group stage match, a result that added extra excitement to Friday’s final.
Both teams displayed courage, perseverance, and tactical discipline, and football fans and security enthusiasts alike are anticipating a sensational final that could go down as one of the toughest in the tournament’s five-year history.
Organized by the state chapter of the Sports Journalists Association of Nigeria (SWAN), the annual Security Cup has become a symbolic celebration of unity, health, and camaraderie among the country’s security agencies. OgunThe finals will begin at 2:00 PM on Friday and promises 90 minutes of excitement, competition and boasts in the heart of
. Abeokuta
