2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 31: Title race shaken as Nasarawa United humble Rivers United in Lafia

Posted : 24 March 2026

The Nigeria Premier Football League title race took a dramatic twist in Lafia as Nasarawa United delivered a statement performance, dismantling Rivers United 4-1 in a rescheduled Matchday 31 clash.

Coming into the encounter under pressure to keep pace with the frontrunners, the Solid Miners responded in emphatic fashion, producing a ruthless attacking display that exposed the frailties of their more fancied opponents and reignited their own title ambitions.

The tone was set almost immediately, with Ngei Oluka-Efor firing the hosts into the lead inside three minutes, finishing off a well-worked move orchestrated by Sam Pam. That early breakthrough unsettled Rivers United, who struggled to recover their composure as Nasarawa maintained relentless pressure.

Just moments later, Abubakar Abdullahi doubled the advantage, rising above the defence to head home from Ifeanyi Okechukwu’s delivery.

At 2-0 within six minutes, the visitors were already on the back foot, chasing shadows against a side brimming with confidence.

The game was effectively decided before the midway point of the first half when Chimezie Victor curled in a superb third goal in the 15th minute, capitalising on an incisive pass from John Joshua. The clinical nature of Nasarawa’s finishing underlined their intent and execution on the night.

Rivers United did manage a response before the break, as Taiwo Abdulrafiu produced a moment of brilliance with a well-struck free-kick to reduce the deficit.

However, that goal did little to shift the momentum, as Nasarawa remained firmly in control heading into halftime with a commanding 3-1 lead.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with the hosts managing the game effectively while still posing a threat going forward.

Jofrank Istifanus eventually put the result beyond doubt in the 58th minute, calmly finishing to seal a comprehensive victory and cap off a memorable evening for the Lafia faithful.

Beyond the scoreline, the result carries significant implications for the league standings.

Nasarawa United’s rise to third place with 50 points places them firmly in contention, just two points behind Rivers United and within striking distance of leaders Rangers of Enugu as the season approaches its climax.

The emphatic win also highlighted Nasarawa’s growing attacking efficiency, a factor their technical crew had emphasised in recent weeks.

Their ability to convert chances so decisively could prove pivotal in the final stretch of the campaign, particularly in a tightly contested title race where goal difference may become decisive.

Off the pitch, the victory was further celebrated with strong backing from the state government.

Governor Abdullahi Sule rewarded the team’s performance with a financial incentive tied to each goal scored, reinforcing the importance of the occasion and boosting morale within the squad.

Additional support from the state’s sports leadership further underlined the significance of the result.

Reacting to the emphatic win, head coach Mangut Mbwas expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance and attacking output:

“It's a thing of joy to have scored this number of goals against a very strong side and former league champions, Rivers United.

``We were very much aware of the importance of goals as the league edges towards its climax. We spoke about this during our training sessions, and our Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, also spoke about it when we paid him a Sallah homage recently, which really motivated us.

``With due respect to our opponents today, but if we had taken all our chances today, we should have scored up to eight goals.

``I praise my wards for heeding to our game plans.

``Our next game against Kwara United in Lagos will be taken seriously knowing what stage of the competition we are in now.

``Our target is to remain between the top two sides at the end of the season."

Goalscorer Chimezie Victor also shared his excitement after finding the net against a top side:

“I feel really excited to score against a team like Rivers United, and my second goal for Nasarawa United since I joined the team in the half of the season.

``Rivers United are one of the best sides in the NPFL, and I am glad we got the result today, which has given us another lifeline.

``Today's result is very important going by our recent form, and the scoreline matters a lot to us because how a team finishes the league campaign might be determined via goals' advantage.”

Jofrank Istifanus, who sealed the victory, reflected on both his goal and personal motivation:

“It always feels fantastic to score for your side. I thank my teammates who keep pushing me to go higher, especially during the period I lost my father.

``Scoring more is what both the club and I need for now, and I wish to keep scoring, maybe eight, at the end of the season. For now, I have four goals.”

Goalkeeper Olughu Chinemerem credited the team’s collective effort for the result:

``We worked hard for this game today, and I am glad it paid off for us, even though we didn't expect this number of goals.

``We play as a team and fight together to get what we want always.”

Earlier, Governor Abdullahi Sule had also praised the team’s performance, stating:

“Congratulations, The Champions! Way to go, guys!!

``I will give N1m for every goal as my Happy Sallah to the champs.”

From a tactical standpoint, Nasarawa United combined early aggression with disciplined game management, overwhelming Rivers United before settling into a controlled rhythm. In contrast, Rivers United were left to reflect on defensive lapses and a slow start that ultimately proved costly.

With the league entering its decisive phase, this result not only tightens the race but also sends a clear message: Nasarawa United are not merely participants; they are genuine contenders.

This dominant performance by the Solid Miners has significantly shifted the momentum in the NPFL title chase, placing them within touching distance of the top. By combining a clinical offensive display with robust defensive organization, Nasarawa United have proven they have the quality to challenge the league's elite. As the season heads into its final weeks, the pressure is now squarely on their rivals to respond to this emphatic statement of intent.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 31: Title race shaken as Nasarawa United humble Rivers United in Lafia

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