Nasarawa United Seek Historic Final Berth in Clash Against Ikorodu City

Posted : 17 June 2026

The Men's President Federation Cup semi-finals loom tomorrow, and Nasarawa United have completed their final preparations. The team is brimming with confidence ahead of the high-stakes encounter against fellow Nigeria Premier League side, Ikorodu City of Lagos, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State.

Kick-off is set for 4pm, and the winners of the Wednesday tie will secure a coveted place in this year's final. This is a prize that has eluded the Solid Miners in two previous attempts: in 2016 against the now-defunct FC Ifeanyi Ubah of Nnewi, Anambra State, at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos, and in 2021 against Bayelsa United FC of Yenagoa, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Edo State.

Technical Adviser, Mangut Mbwas, spoke to the Club's Media shortly after their last training session this evening at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. He stated that his side is focused and battle-ready after a disciplined week of training, following their epic win against zonal opponents, Plateau United, in the quarter-final clash in Abuja on Thursday, 11th June, 2026.

The gaffer applauded his squad's resilience and urged them to translate the pain of missing out on a continental ticket in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier League campaign onto the pitch when they confront the Lagos-based Ikorodu City on Wednesday evening.

"Well, this is a game we all know will be very difficult. Ikorodu City are a side that is young, mobile, and plays compactly, and you could see the class they showed in the league.

"Coming to this stage in the FA Cup, you know no one is a pushover. So, we believe we are going to play a very difficult game.

"However, we have it in mind to work harder, believing that the side that takes its chances carries the day.

"We can't afford to make mistakes. We will minimize costly errors.

"As for us, we have been intact, with fewer injury concerns, except for Jofrank Istifanus who has been nursing a groin injury. But we have those who can make up for his absence, and I can assure you, we will come out with full determination to make our supporters and fans, both in Nasarawa State and beyond, proud," Coach Mangut stated.

Team Captain, King Osanga, echoed the same sentiment, emphasizing unity and the responsibility that comes with wearing the armband and the team's colours in such a decisive match.

"This is why we play football. Semi-finals of the FA Cup don't come around every season. We respect our opponents because they have earned their place here, but the dressing room is united and hungry.

"We twice came closest to winning this title in the past, but luck eluded us. We owe it to our supporters, fans, and ourselves to give everything for 90 minutes or more.

"One more step, and we are in the final," the former Nigerian junior international and FIFA U-17 World Cup winner remarked.

With no fresh injury concerns, Coach Mangut confirmed that all key players are available ahead of tomorrow's clash. Another opportunity beckons for the Solid Miners to end their trophy drought and join the elite list of FA Cup winners.

Nasarawa United enter this crucial semi-final motivated to overcome their historical near-misses and seal a spot in the tournament decider. Facing a disciplined Ikorodu City side, the Solid Miners must maintain clinical execution and defensive solidity over the 90 minutes. With a unified squad and clear focus, the team stands prepared to battle for a place in the prestigious national final.

Nasarawa United Seek Historic Final Berth in Clash Against Ikorodu City

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics