Nasarawa United technical adviser Mbwas Mangut has praised his players for their resilience after they secured a place in the quarter-finals of the President’s Federation Cup with a dramatic victory over Rivers United.
The Solid Miners defeated Rivers United 5-3 on penalties in a tense Round of 16 encounter in Awka on Saturday.
Nasarawa United appeared to be cruising to victory after establishing a two-goal lead in normal time. However, Rivers United mounted a comeback to level the score and force the contest into extra time.
Despite surrendering their advantage, Mangut’s side remained composed and converted their penalties to progress to the last eight of the competition.
Reflecting on the result, Mangut commended his players for showing courage and determination under pressure.
“This win books our place in the quarter-finals of the competition. We were battered, tested, but unbroken,” Mangut told Nasarawa United media.
“Letting a 2-0 lead slip out of your grasp in such a dying moment is the most dangerous scoreline in football.
“A lot of teams won’t survive that, but I thank God and praise my wards for the character shown from the spot.
“Honestly what you need to go deep in this competition that doesn’t offer you a second chance to make amends.”
Nasarawa United will now turn their attention to the quarter-finals against Plateau United as they continue their quest for Federation Cup glory.
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