Kwara United came from behind to defeat Nasarawa United 2-1 in a keenly contested 2026/27 Euromatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 5 encounter at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl of the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, on Wednesday.
The Harmony Boys made a bright start and took the lead in the 11th minute when Jerry Alex won possession and released Sani Mohammed, who finished calmly from close range after a determined solo effort.
Nasarawa United gradually found their footing and restored parity before half-time through Jofrank Istifanus, who reacted quickly to a loose ball in the box before firing past Kwara goalkeeper Ouattara Khalifa.
The visitors' equaliser ensured both sides went into the break level, setting up a competitive second half.
Kwara United coach Ashifat Sulyman responded with three attacking changes, introducing Adeshina Gata, Stephen Godwin and Abdulsalam Abdulsalam in an attempt to increase the intensity of his side's attack.
The substitutions soon paid off as Gata created an opening for Godwin, whose effort was only parried by the Nasarawa goalkeeper.
Abdulsalam reacted quickest to the rebound, driving the ball into the net to restore Kwara United's advantage.
Nasarawa United pressed for another equaliser in the closing stages and created a number of opportunities, but Kwara's defence remained organised, with goalkeeper Stanley Victor making important interventions to preserve the lead.
Kwara's first-choice goalkeeper Ouattara Khalifa was forced off after sustaining a shoulder injury during the encounter.
Gidado Toyeeb was rewarded for his individual contribution with the Cyteck Man of the Match award.
Speaking at the post-match conference, Sulyman acknowledged areas of concern in his team's performance, particularly its handling of aerial balls.
The coach, however, praised his players for their resilience and the determination they showed to secure all three points, while promising to work on the identified shortcomings.
The victory gives Kwara United valuable momentum as they prepare for another demanding fixture, with the Harmony Boys scheduled to travel to Owerri on Sunday to face Kun Khalifat.
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