In a heart-stopping North Central Zonal derby clash that will be etched in the memories of football fans at the Lafia City Stadium for a long time, Nasarawa United pulled off a stunning 1-0 victory over defending champions, Lobi Stars FC of Makurdi, to book their ticket to the Semi-Finals of the annual Gusau/Ahlan Cup Preseason Football Tournament on Sunday afternoon.
The match was a masterclass in tactical football, with both teams who were meeting for the 4th time in less than a year, creating scoring opportunities, but it was substitute, Ajibade Olawale, who broke the deadlock for the Solid Miners in the 72nd minute, brilliantly pouncing on a rebound that sent the home fans into jubilant mood.
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The lone goal proved to be the difference-maker as the Coach Mangut Mbwas-tutored Nasarawa United defence held firm against the relentless attacks from the defending champions, earning them a well-deserved win, avenging their loss to same opposition at the last edition of the tournament held in 2024 in Jos, Plateau State.
Abiodun Omolaoye was voted Player-Of-The-Match by Organizers of the tournament for his stellar performance for the Solid Miners.
Nasarawa United will look to continue with their impressive form in the Semi-Final, where they await the winners between local rivals, FC Basira, versus north central zonal rivals, Plateau United, on Wednesday, 13th August, 2025, at same venue.
