Captain Fantastic Nyima Nwagua registered his name in the NPFL record books on Sunday evening after inspiring Rivers United to a thrilling victory over Doma United with a remarkable hat-trick.
The 30-year-old forward proved unstoppable on Sunday evening, weaving his magic to secure a well-deserved win for his side, Footballrover reports.
Nwagua opened the scoring just seven minutes into the game, seizing the opportunity to slot home from close range after Doma United’s goalkeeper brilliantly saved Alex Oyowah’s attempt on goal.
Not content with just one goal, Nwagua doubled his tally early in the second half, capitalising on a superb assist from Deputy Echeta to extend Rivers United’s lead.
Displaying aerial prowess and strength yet again, he completed his first hat-trick for the Port Harcourt outfit with a towering header, leaving the Doma United goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
Nwagua’s heroics not only secured victory for his team but also saw him pen his name in the NPFL record books.
His first strike marked the fastest goal by Rivers United since January 2023, when Kazie Enyinnaya scored a 7th-minute opener against the Niger Tornadoes, setting a blistering pace for the encounter.
He also became the first player this season to achieve a hat-trick in the second stanza of the NPFL, a feat that highlights his quality on the pitch.
Nwagua’s performance adds to an impressive list of hat-trick scorers this season, joining the ranks of Robert Mizo, Yusuf Abdullahi, and Albert Hillary as the fourth player to do so in the NPFL.
Despite a late resurgence from Doma United, with goals from Bidemi Owoku and Hillary Ekawu, Rivers United held firm to claim all three points.
Looking ahead, Rivers United will seek to harness this momentum as they prepare to face Académica Petróleos do Lobito in a crucial CAF Confederation Cup Group C clash at the Estádio 11 de Novembro.
With Nwagua leading the charge, the Coach Evans Ogenyi side will be eager to continue their pursuit of continental glory.
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