2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 35: Nasarawa United return to form with dominant display

Posted : 20 April 2026

Nasarawa United delivered a commanding response to recent setbacks with a convincing 3-0 victory over Warri Wolves in their Matchday 35 encounter of the Nigeria Premier Football League at the Lafia City Stadium.

Coming into the fixture on the back of three consecutive defeats, the Solid Miners showed urgency and control from the outset, despite playing behind closed doors due to a two-match stadium ban. The absence of fans did little to dampen their intensity, as they executed a disciplined and clinical performance. A moment of respect was also observed before kickoff, with a minute of silence held in honour of former Nigeria Football Federation President, Ibrahim Galadima.

The breakthrough arrived late in the first half when Chimezie Victor calmly converted from the penalty spot in the 43rd minute after John Joshua was brought down in the box. The goal provided a deserved lead for the hosts, who had looked like the more purposeful side.

Nasarawa United built on that momentum in the second half. Substitute Ngei Oluka-Efor made an immediate impact, doubling the advantage in the 62nd minute with a well-taken strike following a precise setup by Mancha Sabbath. The hosts maintained their attacking rhythm and effectively put the game beyond reach twelve minutes later when Habibu Alakija powered in a header to seal the win. The midfielder’s performance earned him the Man-of-the-Match accolade, with Ifeanyi Okechukwu providing the assist.

The result not only ended Nasarawa United’s losing streak but also reinforced their attacking depth and defensive solidity. However, the victory had minimal impact on their league standing, as they remain sixth with 53 points. For Warri Wolves, the defeat compounds their struggles, leaving them in 17th position with 43 points and firmly in the relegation battle.

Looking ahead, Nasarawa United face a challenging run-in, starting with a high-stakes away clash against Shooting Stars in Ibadan. They will then return home for a derby against Plateau United before concluding their campaign on the road against Barau FC in Kano.

Head coach Mangut Mbwas acknowledged the importance of the win but maintained a measured outlook on the team’s ambitions.

“This victory is a relief for us, especially after the position we put ourselves in. But we are not satisfied yet. The teams ahead of us are also picking up results, so we must stay focused,” he said.

He also highlighted the difficulty of playing without supporters while expressing confidence in his team’s resilience.

“The fans are a crucial part of our game, but the players showed character today. We know the challenge ahead, especially against Shooting Stars, and we will keep pushing to finish the season strongly.”

With three games remaining, Nasarawa United have reignited their push for a respectable finish, showing signs of a team determined to end the season on a high. This emphatic performance serves as a reminder of their capabilities when playing with clinical efficiency and tactical discipline. The Solid Miners must now carry this renewed momentum into their final fixtures to secure their standing in the NPFL.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 35: Nasarawa United return to form with dominant display

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