Nasarawa United demonstrated their determination for a return to the elite domestic football league with a resounding 3-0 triumph over ABS FC of Ilorin at the Lafia City Stadium on Saturday.
In a highly-anticipated match-day nine encounter of the 2023/24 Nigeria National League season, Nasarawa United showcased their dominance against ABS FC, clinching a convincing 3-0 victory that reignited their hopes for promotion to the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL).
The Solid Miners wasted no time in asserting their authority, with Anas Yusuf opening the scoring in the 27th minute after a brilliant assist from Abubakar Abdullahi.
ABS FC, who had previously held Nasarawa United to a goalless draw in the first-leg fixture, found themselves trailing as the home side took control of the match.
As the game progressed into the second half, Nasarawa United continued their attacking prowess, doubling their lead in the 51st minute through substitute Adamu Hassan.
Mubarak Hussain’s deflected effort fell into Hassan’s path, allowing him to confidently slot the ball into the net and extend his side’s advantage.
The home side sealed their victory in the 61st minute when Adamu Hassan found the back of the net once again, this time capitalizing on a pinpoint delivery from Habibu Alakija to make it 3-0.
Hassan’s clinical finishing earned him the Man-of-the-Match accolade, highlighting his crucial contribution to Nasarawa United’s triumph.
Despite efforts from ABS FC to mount a comeback, Nasarawa United’s solid defense, led by goalkeeper Ameh Godwin, thwarted their opponents’ attempts to score.
The result saw Nasarawa United climb to the top of Group C table with 17 points, positioning them as strong contenders for promotion to the NPFL.
Following the match, Nasarawa United head coach, Usman Adams, praised his team’s performance, emphasizing their determination to secure promotion.
Meanwhile, ABS FC coach, Umar Danlami, acknowledged the disappointing result and vowed to regroup for their upcoming fixtures.
Adamu Hassan, the Man-of-the-Match, expressed his delight at contributing to his team’s victory and reaffirmed his commitment to helping Nasarawa United achieve their promotion goal.
Nasarawa United will look to maintain their winning momentum as they prepare to face NAF FC in their next fixture scheduled for Saturday, next week.
