In a thrilling start to the 3rd edition of the Abuja Unity Pre-season Tournament, Nasarawa United secured a resounding 3-1 victory over Abuja-based Ejike Ugboaja FC in their Group 'A' opener. The match, held at the Area 3 Football Pitch in Garki, Abuja, saw the Solid Miners come from behind to clinch the win, signaling a strong start to their campaign.
The game kicked off with a setback for Nasarawa United when, just 14 minutes into the first half, goalkeeper Mohammed Galadima mishandled a powerful free-kick from Ejike Ugboaja FC. The ball fell to Solomon Akubo, who made no mistake in placing it into the empty net, putting the Solid Miners at a disadvantage.
Undeterred, Nasarawa United rallied and equalized before the half-hour mark. Young midfield prodigy Sabo Gambo delivered a stunning free-kick that sailed past the Ejike Ugboaja goalkeeper, leveling the score and restoring hope for the Solid Miners.
The teams went into halftime with the score tied at 1-1. Upon resumption, Nasarawa United quickly asserted control. Ten minutes into the second half, veteran attacker Chinedu Ohanachom capitalized on a clever dummy pass from Awal Auta to score from close range, putting United ahead.
The game was sealed in the 87th minute when substitute Nandom Emmanuel took advantage of a lapse in concentration by Ejike Ugboaja’s goalkeeper Canaan Sadiq. Emmanuel pounced on a loose ball, securing Nasarawa United's third goal and finalizing the scoreline at 3-1.
This victory places Nasarawa United at the top of the Group 'A' table with three points. Earlier in the day, Like Minds FC and Atlantic Integral FC played to a 2-2 draw, highlighting the competitive nature of the group.
Looking ahead, Nasarawa United will face Atlantic Integral FC of Suleja, Niger State, on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at 8:00 AM, continuing their quest for pre-season glory.
Nasarawa United Line-Up
- Starting XI: Mohammed Galadima, John Tsekaa, Chidera Nduka, Ebuka Ekesi, Isaac Gabriel, Henry Kasimobi (Nandom Emmanuel 63'), Denis Mse (Dauda Maigishiri 63'), Chinedu Ohanachom (Shammasu Mohammed 76'), Sabo Gambo (Habibu Alakija 76'), Chinonso Okoro, Awal Auta (Ugo Anyanwu 88').
- Unused Substitutes: Ikenna Benjamin, Femi Solomon, Dapo Toyyib, Matthew Omotosho.
The Solid Miners' performance in their opening game reflects promising form as they prepare for their upcoming fixture in the tournament.
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