2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 11: Nasarawa United FC suffers derby heartbreak as Kwara United wins

Posted : 11 November 2024

The Solid Miners suffered a disappointing 0-1 defeat against North Central Zonal rivals, Kwara United, in Sunday’s highly anticipated derby match at the Lafia City Stadium.

Despite dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities, the hosts could not find the back of the net, while the visitors capitalized on a single chance to seal the victory.

Watch NPFL Matches LIVE: https://www.africasport.net/livetv/nigeria

The game started with both sides displaying high intensity, but it was Kwara United who struck first, courtesy of Nasarawa United’s former striker, Emmanuel Ogbole. The first half ended with the Solid Miners trailing 0-1 in front of their home fans.

After the break, Nasarawa United pushed hard for an equalizer, with Anas Yusuf, Chinonso Okonkwo, Kabir Balogun, Shina Kumater, and Shammasu Mohammed all coming close. However, Afonja Warriors’ goalkeeper, Nurudeen Badmos, made several key saves to deny the hosts.

Despite being a man down following a second bookable offense by defender Victor Adeoye in the 69th minute, the Ilorin-based Kwara United held on to their slim lead and secured the maximum points, leaving the hosts to reflect on their second home loss since the start of the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League season.

This frustrating result sees Nasarawa United drop further to 18th place on the league table with 12 points from 11 games, while Kwara United leapfrogged to 11th position with 14 points.

The Coach Kabir Dogo-led side will next travel to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Sunday, November 17, 2024, seeking redemption in Match Day 12, before embarking on a cross-country journey to Jos, Plateau State, the following week for another North-Central derby clash with Plateau United.

Nasarawa United FC coach Kabir Dogo described the loss as disappointing.

"It's a disappointing result for us today, even though we played well. But I believe we will get things right.

"We didn’t take our chances, especially in the second half when our opponents were a man down due to a red card.

"They had just one or two chances, and they took advantage of them.

"We take it in good faith and look forward to bouncing back in our next game."

Kwara United FC coach, Tunde Sanni, described the win as a huge compensation.

"This is a compensation from God. We were due to win many away games, but we are happy we got it today.

"We lost our first home match of the season, and it was not easy for us to accept.

"Nasarawa United are a good side, but anxiety and the pressure to win today cost them this game."

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 11: Nasarawa United FC suffers derby heartbreak as Kwara United wins

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics