Nasarawa United, famously known as the Solid Miners, maintained their unbeaten record in the ongoing 3rd Gusau/Ahlan Pre-season Cup Football Tournament with a resounding 3-0 victory over Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) on Saturday.
The win secured their top position in Group D with a perfect nine points from three matches, solidifying their status as tournament favorites.
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Despite already securing a spot in the quarter-finals, Nasarawa United approached the match against FRSC with intent, rekindling a rivalry from past Nasarawa State FA Cup clashes.
The FRSC initially dominated possession in the first half, but the Solid Miners struck against the run of play with a moment of brilliance from Anas Yusuf in the 33rd minute. Yusuf unleashed an incredible free-kick from 20 meters out, sending the ball at a staggering speed past the FRSC goalkeeper, Azubuike Stephen.
Just four minutes later, left-back Hussaini Mubarak extended Nasarawa United’s lead with a solo effort, intercepting a pass before outpacing his markers and slotting the ball into the net. The Solid Miners entered halftime with a comfortable 2-0 lead.
FRSC’s hopes of a comeback were dashed early in the second half when Samuel Agbo’s shot struck the woodwork. Nasarawa United’s dominance continued, and in the 71st minute, Jonas Emmanuel sealed the victory with a powerful diving header off a cross from Mubarak.
Anas Yusuf, who was pivotal in the victory, was named Man-of-the-Match for his outstanding performance.
Reflecting on the game, Coach Usman Adams praised his team’s resilience and efficiency in front of goal, stating, “We came into this match with a plan, and the boys executed it brilliantly. Their hunger for success is evident, and we are now focused on the next challenge.”
With the group stage now complete, Nasarawa United await the results of Sunday’s matches to determine their opponents in the quarter-finals, set to take place on Monday, August 26, 2024.
