Nasarawa United’s stay at the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League table was tested on Sunday as they battled to a 1-1 draw against Kun Khalifat FC at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.
Anas Yusuf fired the Solid Miners into an early lead in the fourteenth minute after latching onto a precise pass from Ada Umar and striking home with confidence. The visitors controlled the first half, taking their slim advantage into the break.
Kun Khalifat, however, responded strongly in the second period. Otu Stanley levelled the score in the sixty-fifth minute after capitalising on a poor defensive clearance to head beyond the Nasarawa goalkeeper. Neither side could find a winner before full time, forcing both clubs to settle for a point.
The result pushed Nasarawa United down to second place on goal difference, though they remain tied on twenty-four points with Ikorodu City. Kun Khalifat stay in the relegation zone with thirteen points.
Speaking after the match, Nasarawa United coach Mangut Mbwas praised his players for their resilience despite the setback.
“I knew it would be a tough game because the hosts lost here last weekend and were desperate to respond,” he said. “Our early goal destabilised them, but they came out stronger in the second half and got the equaliser.
“We made changes because Leonard was exhausted and Anas has been heavily targeted by defenders due to his threat on and off the ball. In all, I must commend my boys for putting up a great fight and earning a point.”
Looking ahead, Mbwas added that preparations will intensify for their next home fixture. “We expect to work hard and smart to face El Kanemi Warriors, another strong team, and aim for maximum points.”
Nasarawa United will host El Kanemi Warriors on Sunday, 23 November, in Lafia.
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