Nasarawa United head coach Mangut Mbwas has explained how his side successfully “demystified” Ikorodu City FC following their hard-fought victory in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), dealing another blow to the Lagos club’s title ambitions.
The Solid Miners secured a dramatic 1–0 win over Ikorodu City in their Matchday 29 clash of the 2025/26 NPFL season at the Lafia City Stadium on Sunday evening.
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Defensive midfielder Bright Amadi emerged the hero for the hosts, scoring the decisive goal in the 83rd minute with a well-taken free kick that sealed all three points for Nasarawa United and sparked celebrations among the home supporters.
The victory marked a return to winning ways for the Lafia-based club and lifted them to third place on the league table with 47 points, five points behind leaders Rivers United and three adrift of second-placed Rangers International.
With nine matches remaining, the result has strengthened Nasarawa United’s push in the title race.
For Ikorodu City, the defeat represents another setback in their own championship ambitions as the closely contested NPFL season continues to intensify.
Coach Mangut Reacts
Speaking after the match, Nasarawa United coach Mangut Mbwas said his team approached the encounter with caution, acknowledging Ikorodu City’s strength before making tactical adjustments that ultimately proved decisive.
“Before now, we were very much aware of how difficult this game would be, knowing that Ikorodu City are also a team in contention for the league title,” Mangut said.
“We gave them a lot of respect in the first half. We sat back a lot and there were not many chances created. So we decided to effect some changes in the second half, and you saw that those changes made the difference for us.
“In all, we are grateful to God for the victory regardless of the scoreline.
With nine matches left, we will continue to improve on our scoring and defending abilities to finish strong on the table.”
