2025/2026 President Federation Cup: Nasarawa United Hold Nerve to Edge Rivers United in Penalty Drama

Posted : 08 June 2026

Nasarawa United demonstrated remarkable mental strength and composure as they survived a dramatic late fightback from Rivers United to secure a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025/2026 President Federation Cup following a tense penalty shootout victory at the Awka City Stadium in Anambra State.

What appeared to be a routine passage into the last eight suddenly turned into a nerve-racking encounter after the Solid Miners squandered a comfortable two-goal advantage in the closing stages of the Round of 16 clash.

The Lafia-based side controlled proceedings for much of the contest and deservedly took the lead on the stroke of halftime through Ugochukwu Leonard, who finished off a move initiated by Abubakar Abdullahi in the 44th minute.

Coach Mbwas Mangut's men continued to dictate the tempo after the restart and doubled their advantage in the 68th minute when substitute Ada Umar found the back of the net, once again benefiting from Abdullahi's creative influence.

With a 2-0 lead and only minutes remaining, Nasarawa United appeared firmly on course for victory against a Rivers United side that finished second in the recently concluded Nigeria Premier Football League season.

However, the former league champions mounted a spirited comeback that threatened to snatch qualification away from the Solid Miners.

Samson Obi sparked hopes of a recovery for Rivers United when he reduced the deficit in the 86th minute. The momentum quickly shifted, and deep into stoppage time, Handsome Surveyor stunned Nasarawa United by scoring the equaliser to make it 2-2.

The dramatic turnaround forced the match into a penalty shootout, where Nasarawa United showed greater composure under pressure.

Abubakar Abdullahi, Adekunle Oluwasegun, Sam Pam, Hassan Moyi, and John Victor all converted their spot-kicks with confidence, while Rivers United failed to match their accuracy from 12 yards as Zachariah Timothy missed his attempt.

The resulting 5-3 shootout victory ensured Nasarawa United progressed to the quarter-finals, where they will renew their North Central rivalry with Plateau United.

Beyond the result, the occasion carried emotional significance for the Solid Miners, who dedicated the hard-earned victory to the late Amina Hassan, mother of midfielder Hassan Moyi, who passed away in Lafia just hours before kick-off.

Reflecting on the dramatic encounter, head coach Mbwas Mangut praised the resilience and character displayed by his players.

“This win takes us into the quarter-finals. We were tested in every possible way, but the players remained strong mentally.

“Conceding twice late in the game could have broken many teams, but our players showed courage and belief.

“Their composure during the penalty shootout was outstanding and demonstrates the character required to succeed in a knockout competition.”

2025/2026 President Federation Cup: Nasarawa United Hold Nerve to Edge Rivers United in Penalty Drama

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