When the fans finally returned to Lafia City Stadium after a five-month ban, they were treated to a much-needed lifeline—and a performance that hinted Nasarawa United aren’t ready to go down without a fight.

But what sparked this crucial turnaround against one of the league’s most seasoned sides?

Nasarawa United rise as fans return in Style

The Solid Miners bounced back in emphatic fashion with a 2-0 win over former champions Akwa United in a decisive NPFL Matchday 32 clash, Footballrover reports.

The game not only reignited their NPFL survival hopes but also marked the triumphant return of home supporters following a long stadium ban.

The Nasarawa Miners wasted no time. Just two minutes into the game, Ugochukwu Leonard found the net with a calm finish, electrifying the crowd and setting the tone.

Although Akwa United’s keeper Jean Efala pulled off a string of saves to deny Garba Mohammed, Idris Ajiya, and Anas Yusuf, the pressure kept building.

Things went from bad to worse for the visitors when Endurance Ebedebiri was sent off in the 59th minute after receiving a second yellow card.

With the numerical advantage, Nasarawa turned the screw.

Substitute Garba Abubakar sealed the result in the 84th minute, pouncing on a loose ball after a goalmouth scramble to slot home.

Big win, bigger rewards as survival race heats up

This result lifted Nasarawa United to 16th on the log with 39 points, injecting fresh energy into their NPFL survival hopes ahead of a local derby against Plateau United.

Assistant coach Mohammed Saidu Bashir praised the grit of his side, saying,

“Akwa United are a good side. They are former league champions and we respect them for that. However, we needed the points today more than they did, even though we are passing through the same phase of beating the drop.

“We are so happy that we are back in contention to stabilise in the league, and we hope to continue with this great feat, beginning with our next home game against our next-door neighbours.

“It’s also great to see our fans back at the stadium after the ban against them some five months ago. Their presence today was a huge morale booster, and we hope to see more of their support and high spirits in the remaining games.”

Off the pitch, the victory earned the team ₦1 million in reward from Nasarawa State’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu—who has made it a habit to back the team with cash incentives for goals and wins.

With fans now back in the stands and belief restored, the Solid Miners look determined to beat the drop.

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Last Updated on April 7, 2025 5:55 am by Sir Kris