Nasarawa United have vowed to return stronger next season after their President Federation Cup campaign ended in heartbreak following a penalty shootout defeat to Ikorodu City in the semi-final.
The Solid Miners were beaten 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Wednesday.
Ikorodu City took an early lead through Ayola Ibrahim before Bright Amadi restored parity for Nasarawa United in the 41st minute with a superb effort directly from a corner kick.
With neither side able to find a winner, the tie was decided from the spot. Adekunle Oluwasegun and Sam Pam missed their penalties for Nasarawa United, while Moyi Hassan and Ngei Oluka-Efor converted theirs. Ikorodu City scored four of their five penalties to secure a place in the final.
The defeat brought the curtain down on Nasarawa United's 2025/26 season without a trophy, but club officials and players expressed optimism about the future.
Head coach Mangut Mbwas praised his players' effort despite the disappointment.
"We exit the President Federation's Cup with our heads high.
"The boys gave everything. We didn't lose this tie, penalties just didn't fall for us today, but rest assured that next season, we will come back stronger and better."
Club captain King Osanga admitted the result was painful but said the team had made significant progress during the campaign.
"This truly hurts, no doubts. We wanted to bring a trophy home for our great supporters and fans, but look at the journey.
"We have grown, we have competed with the best, and we have built something here.
"Everyone is hurt, but we have to put the pains of this behind us and rebuild ahead of next season."
Chairman Solomon Babanjah also reflected on the campaign, describing it as a season of progress despite the absence of silverware.
"Trophies are the goal for any team contending in the league or cup competition, but you don't build dynasties in one season.
"The 2025/26 season would be remembered as one of progress, even though we couldn't lay our hands on any trophy or securing a continental ticket.
"We wish we could cap the campaign with something to appreciate our loyal supporters and fans for always standing by us.
"Nonetheless, we have laid the foundation. We are working on rejigging our squad ahead of next season. Early preparation is key, and God helping us, we should have an eventful campaign in 2026/27."
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