Nasarawa United star Anas Yusuf has made an unwanted history for himself in the Nigeria Premier Football League by becoming the first player to score a hat-trick in a match that his team ultimately lost—a rare feat not witnessed in over a decade.
In this exciting encounter between two NPFL newcomers, El-Kanemi Warriors displayed their dominance, coming from two goals down to edge past Nasarawa United in a seven-goal thriller, Footballrover reports.
Despite Yusuf’s impressive three-goal performance, Nasarawa fell short, losing 4-3 at the Lafia Township Stadium on Saturday.
The Solid Miners came into this match seeking their first win of the season after consecutive draws against Shooting Stars and Niger Tornadoes.
Elkanemi, too, was hungry for victory, having drawn their opening match against defending champions Rangers and seen their clash with Kwara United postponed.
The game kicked off with an exciting pace as Nasarawa surged to a two-goal lead within the first 21 minutes, thanks to two goals from Anas Yusuf.
His first strike came just 14 minutes into the match, followed by a well-taken penalty seven minutes later.
Thrilling Encounter Ends in Heartbreak
However, the Warriors responded in spectacular fashion, scoring three goals in a breathtaking eight-minute spell to take the lead.
Salihu Nasir ignited their comeback with a goal in the 27th minute, followed by another five minutes later, levelling the score at 2-2.
Just before halftime, Al-Amin Umar stunned the home fans with a third goal, sending Elkanemi into the break with a surprising 3-2 lead.
After the restart, Anas Yusuf completed his hat-trick 23 minutes in, equalising for Nasarawa United and reigniting their hopes.
Yet the Miners couldn’t maintain their momentum, conceding a late penalty.
In dramatic fashion, the Warriors were awarded a penalty in the 90th minute, and Ethaghara Bright stepped up to convert it flawlessly, securing a vital victory and all three points for Elkanemi.
With this defeat, Nasarawa United remains winless in the campaign, looking to turn their fortunes around in their upcoming match against Ikorodu City next Saturday.
Meanwhile, Coach Aliyu Zubairu and his team will prepare for their clash with Plateau United on the same day.
Big Hope for Yusuf Ahead
While Yusuf may have achieved an unfortunate milestone, he has nonetheless scored four goals in three matches, making him the league’s top scorer.
He also boasts two Man of the Match awards this season and is the first player to record a hat-trick in the NPFL campaign.
Photos: Football Temple
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