Nasarawa United bounced back with style from their recent defeat against Remo Stars, securing a commanding 3-0 win over Abia Warriors in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matchday seven clash on Wednesday.
The match, held at the Lafia City Stadium, saw Anas Yusuf shine with a brilliant hat-trick, giving the home side their first victory of the season on home soil.
Both teams had a quiet first half, despite the presence of dignitaries such as Nasarawa State Governor Engr. Abdullahi Sule and Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, among others. However, after a spirited halftime talk, the Solid Miners came out firing in the second half.
Anas Yusuf opened the scoring just 11 minutes after the restart, heading in a well-placed cross from teenager Shina Kumater. Two minutes later, Anas doubled the lead, finishing off another assist, this time from right-back Kabir Balogun. The winger completed his hat-trick in the 70th minute, pouncing on a rebound from Terdoo Shimagande’s shot to seal the win for Nasarawa United.
The victory not only boosted morale but also pushed Nasarawa United up to 8th in the league standings with nine points. Abia Warriors, on the other hand, slipped to 13th with eight points.
Nasarawa United Technical Director, Kabiru Dogo, praised the team’s resilience after their recent loss to Remo Stars.
“This is our first home victory, and it means a lot. The boys showed tremendous character, especially Anas Yusuf, who was unstoppable today,” Dogo said.
Anas Yusuf, who now has eight goals this season, expressed his gratitude: “I’m excited to score my second hat-trick of the season. I thank God, my teammates, and the coaching staff for their support.”
Nasarawa United will travel to Ijebu-Ode for their next match against Sunshine Stars on Sunday, 20th October.
