2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 15: Heartland FC moves up NPFL ladder after Nasarawa United scare

Posted : 02 December 2024

Heartland International FC delivered a dramatic late comeback to edge Nasarawa United 3-2 in an exhilarating Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clash at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, on Sunday, Dec. 1.

The game began with a statement of intent from the hosts. In the 15th minute, Heartland’s long-throw specialist, Christian Nkwo, launched a trademark missile throw-in into the Solid Miners’ penalty area, where Promise Anyanwu smartly converted for his first goal of the season.

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

The early lead sent the home crowd into raptures.

However, Nasarawa United, known for their resilience, clawed their way back just before the interval. In the second minute of first-half stoppage time, Anas Yusuf capitalized on slack defending by the hosts to volley home a superb equalizer, silencing the Heartland faithful as the teams headed into the break at 1-1.

The visitors looked to cause an upset, and their efforts paid off in the 85th minute.

Heartland’s defense faltered under pressure, allowing Garba Abubakar to pounce and slot the ball past the goalkeeper, giving Nasarawa United a 2-1 advantage and piling frustration onto the Owerri side.

The Naze Millionaires, however, refused to throw in the towel.

With their backs against the wall, the Naze Millionaires launched wave after wave of attack in a desperate bid to salvage the game.

Their persistence bore fruit in the 88th minute when another of Nkwo’s pinpoint long throws found the in-form striker Surajudeen Lawal. Lawal made no mistake, smashing the ball into the net to restore parity at 2-2.

As the clock ticked into stoppage time, Heartland’s relentless pressure finally broke Nasarawa’s resolve.

In the 92nd minute, Nkwo’s deadly long throw once again proved decisive. This time, it was defender Christian Molokwu who showcased composure and ingenuity, deftly flipping the ball into the net to secure a sensational 3-2 victory for the Owerri-based side.

The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among the Heartland faithful, as the dramatic win kept their team in 10th place on the NPFL standings with 20 points. Meanwhile, Nasarawa United remained rooted to the foot of the table with just 15 points.

Heartland will travel to Jos for a challenging encounter against Plateau United, while Nasarawa United aims to bounce back when they host Lobi Stars in Lafia.

Heartland’s comeback showcased their resilience and determination, while Nasarawa will need to regroup quickly to keep their survival hopes alive.

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 15: Heartland FC moves up NPFL ladder after Nasarawa United scare

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics