Nasarawa United secured a crucial 1-0 victory over local rivals Lobi Stars in a fierce Matchday 16 Nigeria Premier League clash on Saturday at the Lafia City Stadium.

The decisive moment came early in the 12th minute when Qamar Adegoke scored the only goal of the game. His well-taken strike not only lifted the Solid Miners out of the relegation zone but also moved them to 14th place in the league standings, overtaking Lobi Stars.

 

Nasarawa United dominated possession and created several chances, but Lobi Stars came close to equalizing, with John Mark striking the woodwork before halftime. Despite Lobi Stars’ late push for an equalizer, Nasarawa United’s defense, led by goalkeeper Mohammed Galadima, held firm to secure all three points.

The result marked Nasarawa United’s second consecutive home win, a vital boost for their battle to avoid relegation

Before kickoff, two players from the Super Eagles Team B camp, Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United) and Ossy Martins (Lobi Stars), were honored with League Bloggers’ Awards for their performances in September and October. The awards were presented on their behalf by Nasarawa United Chairman Solomon Babanjah and other dignitaries.

Kabir Dogo (Technical Director, Nasarawa United):

“I thank God for today’s success. There have been improvements in our last three games, but we need to win more and climb higher. This was a rivalry clash, and Lobi Stars gave us a tough fight, especially since they’re familiar with this pitch. We thank our fans for their unwavering support and ask them to keep believing in us.”

 

Qamar Adegoke (Nasarawa United, Goal Scorer):

“I feel great scoring the winning goal for my team. This is my second goal in four appearances, and I aim to score more to help us move up the table.”

Cautions

• Terdoo Shimagande (Nasarawa United): 42’

• Sabo Gambo (Nasarawa United): 59’

• Starting XI: Mohammed Galadima, Abubakar Abdullahi, Mubarak Hussaini, Chidera Nduka, Emeka Onyema, Manga Mohammed, Terdoo Shimagande (Sabo Gambo 46’), Qamar Adegoke (Garba Abubakar 51’), Shina Kumater, Chinonso Okonkwo (Adamu Hassan 69’), Garba Mohammed (Moyi Hassan 84’).

• Unused Substitutes: Jerry Isaac, Uchenna Odeh, Kabir Balogun, Silas Ubebe, King Osanga.

Nasarawa United will aim to continue their resurgence when they take on their next opponents in what promises to be another critical fixture for the Solid Miners.