Date: 2012-04-15

The race for the 2012 Federation Cup has begun across the country. Instituted in 1945 as the Governor's Cup, the competition is an annual football ritual that gives part-timers and amateurs an opportunity to rub shoulders with established top flight professional players in a knockout format, which begins from the states.

Owerri-based Nigeria Premier League side, Heartland, emerged champions of the 2011 edition after a 1-0 victory over 2005 and 2009 champions, Enyimba. It was the first victory for Heartland, after winning the 1988 edition as Iwuanyanwu Nationale.

Ilorin-based Premier League sides, Kwara United and ABS are favourites in Kwara State, but they have to contend with several ambitious non-league and amateur sides.

Kwara United have a date with Al-jazira, on Sunday, and rivals, ABS will begin their quest against Young Star, on Monday.

Amateur side, Offa United, have advanced to the next round. The team played a goalless draw against Igbo Traders Football Association, but edged the part-timers 3-2 on penalties.

However, surprise winners of the Kwara State edition last year, Kwara Football Academy are through to the next round without kicking a ball.