Set-piece woes cost spirited Westgate FC against Nasarawa United in Federation Cup

Posted : 20 May 2026

Westgate FC’s impressive run in the 2026 NFF President Federation Cup came to an end on Tuesday after a hard-fought 3-1 defeat to Nigeria Premier Football League side, Nasarawa United, in a Round of 64 encounter played at the Prince Abubakar Audu University Stadium, Anyigba, Kogi State.

Despite the final scoreline, the Gatekeepers earned plaudits for their courageous and disciplined performance against the more experienced Solid Miners, only undone by costly set-piece situations at crucial moments of the game.

Westgate started brightly and showed little fear against their top-flight opponents, enjoying spells of possession and creating promising attacking moments in the opening stages. Friday Omoregie caused early problems with a dangerous delivery into the area, while Opaleye Elijah nearly broke the deadlock midway through the first half with a spectacular acrobatic effort that forced a sharp save from the Nasarawa United goalkeeper.

For much of the first half, the contest remained evenly balanced as both sides searched for openings. However, Nasarawa United eventually found the breakthrough in the 40th minute after a goalmouth scramble following a long throw-in. A slip by the Westgate goalkeeper allowed the ball to fall kindly for the NPFL side, who capitalised to take the lead.

The Solid Miners doubled their advantage just three minutes later, punishing Westgate again from a set-piece as a well-worked free-kick delivery was headed home to hand Nasarawa United a two-goal cushion at halftime.

Determined to respond, Westgate returned from the break with renewed energy and attacking intent. Omoshade Samuel almost reduced the deficit shortly after the restart with an audacious lob that narrowly missed the target.

Coach Yakubu Ibrahim sought to change the momentum in the 67th minute by introducing Festus Elegbede and Esosa Ulrich for Lucius Joseph and Idemudia Kelvin, a move that added fresh energy to the Gatekeepers’ attacking play.

Westgate’s persistence finally paid off in the 83rd minute when substitute Festus Elegbede reacted quickest to Idris Shittu’s rebound effort, calmly dribbling past his marker before slotting the ball into the net to ignite hopes of a dramatic comeback.

Those hopes were short-lived, however, as Nasarawa United restored their two-goal advantage just two minutes later in dramatic fashion, scoring directly from a corner kick to seal a 3-1 victory and book their place in the next round.

Although eliminated, Westgate FC left the competition with their heads held high after a spirited showing against elite opposition. The performance highlighted the team’s resilience, organisation, and growing potential as the young squad continues its development.

Reacting after the match, Westgate head coach Yakubu Ibrahim praised his players for their commitment despite the disappointing result.

“We are obviously disappointed with the result because we came here believing in ourselves and hoping to progress, but I must commend the players for their effort and character throughout the game,” he said.

“I felt we competed well for long periods, especially against a very experienced NPFL side. Unfortunately, the game was decided by set-piece situations, and at this level you get punished for small mistakes.

“The response from the team after going two goals down was positive, and getting the goal showed the mentality and fighting spirit within this squad.

“There are definitely lessons to take from this match, and these are the kinds of experiences that help a young team improve. We will keep working hard, stay focused, and continue building towards the future.”

The valiant effort from the Gatekeepers outlines a promising trajectory for the developing squad despite their exit from the national tournament. Capitalizing on critical set-pieces allowed Nasarawa United to secure progression, while Westgate FC shifts its focus to future developmental goals. The tactical growth and resilience displayed in Anyigba will serve as a foundational pillar for the team in upcoming competitions.

Set-piece woes cost spirited Westgate FC against Nasarawa United in Federation Cup

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