Lafia, Nigeria – Wednesday, November 28, 2024: Nasarawa United secured a vital 2-1 victory over Bendel Insurance at the Lafia City Stadium on Wednesday evening, ending a three-match losing streak in the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
In a thrilling match-day 14 encounter, the Solid Miners showed resilience and determination, finally breaking their recent slump with an important win that could reignite their campaign.
The match kicked off with early drama as Nasarawa United drew first blood in the 9th minute. Central defender and Super Eagles player, Victor Collins, found the back of the net after a clever flick from Anas Yusuf off a King Osanga set piece. Collins, positioned in the right spot, pounced on the delivery to poke home from close range, giving the hosts a 1-0 lead.
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Despite conceding early, Bendel Insurance quickly rallied, responding with intensity. In the 25th minute, Oritseweyinmi Meyiwa delivered a deft pass into the box, which caught Collins off guard. Despite his best efforts to clear the ball, Collins’ attempt fell short, and the ball trickled into the net, bringing the score to 1-1. Both teams went into the halftime break with all to play for.
The decisive moment came in the 51st minute when Nasarawa United regained the lead. Substitute Chinonso Okonkwo sent in a perfect cross from the right wing, and Qamar Adegoke was there to meet it, heading the ball past Bendel Insurance goalkeeper to make it 2-1. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the home fans, who had been waiting eagerly for their team to break their losing streak.
The victory was a massive relief for Nasarawa United, who had been struggling in recent weeks. The three points not only lifted their spirits but also gave them a crucial boost ahead of a series of challenging fixtures. Next, they travel to Owerri to face Heartland, before hosting Lobi Stars a week later, and then embarking on a tough trip to Aba.
Post-Match Reactions:
Kabir Dogo (Technical Director, Nasarawa United) expressed his pride in the team’s performance, saying: “I am incredibly proud of the team’s effort today. We have been working tirelessly to address our recent struggles, and it’s rewarding to see the players’ hard work pay off. With this renewed confidence and momentum, the team will look to build on this victory and climb the Premier League’s upper table.”
Coach Greg Ikhenoba (Bendel Insurance) reflected on his side’s defeat, saying: “It’s disappointing to lose this game because we didn’t plan to lose here, looking at our situation, but that’s football. Officiating was good. I was very impressed. We will go back home and fix our grey areas and ensure we come back smiling.”
With this crucial win, Nasarawa United now look ahead with optimism, hoping to carry the momentum into their upcoming fixtures and climb the standings as the season progresses.
