2025/2026 NPFL: Kwara United Halt Nasarawa United’s Perfect Home Run With 1–1 Draw

Posted : 10 November 2025

The Solid Miners’ impressive home record was finally breached on Matchday 12 of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, as Nasarawa United were held to a 1–1 draw by Kwara United at the Lafia City Stadium.

Last season’s top scorer, Anas Yusuf, handed the hosts an early lead, capitalising on a defensive lapse to net his third goal of the campaign. However, the visitors — nicknamed the Harmony Boys — hit back in the 36th minute through Aule Johnmark, whose effort ensured parity heading into halftime.

Despite creating numerous chances in the second half, Nasarawa United found Kwara United’s defence too disciplined to break down. The result ultimately reflected the balance of play, marking the first time the Solid Miners have dropped points at home this season after five straight victories in Lafia.

Sunday’s stalemate, however, keeps Nasarawa United top of the NPFL standings with 23 points from 12 matches.

The Lafia-based side will look to return to winning ways when they travel to Owerri to face 15th-placed Kun Khalifat FC on Sunday, November 16, at the Dan Anyiam Stadium by 4 p.m.

Awards and Recognition

During halftime, the Chairman of Nasarawa United, Solomon Babanjah, Technical Adviser Mangut Mbwas, and first-choice goalkeeper Ameh Godwin were honoured with awards of excellence by the Lafia Social Sport Club, in recognition of their contributions to the team’s impressive campaign so far.

The awards were presented by the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu.

Post-Match Reactions

Speaking after the encounter, Technical Adviser Mangut Mbwas attributed the result partly to fixture congestion, noting that his players were fatigued after playing three matches in the space of a week.

“This really is not the result we wanted. It’s painful to drop points at home, especially considering our good form and the expectations around the team,” Mbwas said.

“The players were exhausted — we’ve had a cluster of games in a short period: away in Port Harcourt, back in Lafia on Thursday, and again today. The fatigue was evident, but we can’t use that as an excuse.”

He added that maintaining consistency will be key to sustaining their title challenge.

“We must remain competitive over the long haul and continue pushing for a top-three finish. Our response to this draw will be crucial, and we hope to bounce back immediately in Owerri,” he noted.

Mbwas also praised Kwara United for their discipline and compact defending.

“Kwara United are always a tough side — very organised and disciplined. They made things difficult for us today,” he added.

2025/2026 NPFL: Kwara United Halt Nasarawa United’s Perfect Home Run With 1–1 Draw

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics