Nasarawa United head coach Mbwas Mangut has praised his team for their “impressive” performance after they came from behind to beat Bayelsa United 2-1 away at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa. Nasarawa’s first away win in the Nigeria Premier Football League this season.
Bayelsa United struck first through Jawad Mustapha in the 36th minute. However, the Solid Miners equalised just before half time via Ekeson Okorie, turning the tide in their favour. The match winner came in dramatic fashion: substitute Victor Onovuke scored in the 89th minute to seal all three points for Nasarawa.
Mangut admitted that the field conditions, made difficult by rain and a water-logged pitch, made the contest tougher than expected. He also acknowledged an error that led to the opening goal but commended the squad’s response, saying they executed the game plan well particularly by frustrating Bayelsa United and staying disciplined until they could strike.
Editorial
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We believe Nasarawa United have delivered a statement with this win a game that tested character, tactics, and resolve. To go down first, under challenging conditions, and still walk away with all three points speaks volumes about their mentality under Mangut. Away victories in the NPFL are never easy they demand composure, adaptability, and belief.
The equaliser just before half-time proved crucial. It didn’t just restore parity it changed the psychological flow of the match. From that moment, Nasarawa appeared more confident, more willing to seize opportunities. Onovuke’s late winner shows the rewards of persistence: the team held on, kept probing, and capitalised when it mattered.
Mangut’s acknowledgement of the error that led to Bayelsa’s opener is important—it shows accountability. But more significant is how the players did not crumble under pressure. They adapted to the poor pitch, stuck to their defensive plan, and worked for each other. That level of collective effort often distinguishes teams likely to rise in the standings.
We see in this win not just three points, but a turning point. Confidence gained here can ripple through future matches. Nasarawa now have proof of concept: that they can win away, under pressure, and from behind. If they build on this, this could mark the start of a more assertive phase of their season.
Did You Know?
- Nasarawa United had not won a single away match this NPFL season until this game.
- Jawad Mustapha’s opener came in the 36th minute, before the rain-affected pitch worsened the playing conditions.
- Ekeson Okorie scored the equaliser just before half-time, giving Nasarawa United a psychological lift into the second half.
- Victor Onovuke, coming on as a substitute, clinched the win with a goal in the 89th minute.
- Mangut admitted the pitch was water-logged due to heavy downpour, making ball control and movement difficult.
