Solid Miners Dominate to Reach Federation Cup Round of 32

Nasarawa United delivered an impressive display, defeating Flight FC of Gboko 2-0 in their President Federation’s Cup Round of 64 match on Wednesday at Jos International Stadium.

It didn’t take long for the Premier League side to stamp their authority. Ugochukwu Leonard, returning to the squad, opened the scoring in the sixth minute after connecting perfectly with a precise pass from John Joshua. The early breakthrough lifted the team’s confidence, and just eleven minutes later, right-back Kabir Balogun doubled the lead with a sensational free-kick that left the opposing goalkeeper rooted to the spot.

Despite their dominance and several opportunities in the second half, Nasarawa United couldn’t add to their tally, but their two early goals proved enough to book their place in the Round of 32 of Nigeria’s oldest club knockout competition.

The victory was celebrated by prominent figures, including Nasarawa United FC Chairman Solomon Babanjah and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Kwanta Yakubu. They were joined by former Deputy Governor Professor Onje Gye-wado and Hon. Larry Ven-Bawa, who led the state delegation to cheer on the team.

Nasarawa United now await the outcome of the fixture between Ijele FC of Enugu and Lautau FC of Jigawa to discover their next opponents. With two past runner-up finishes in the National Challenge Cup, the team will be eager to go one step further this year.

Their attention now turns to the Nigeria Premier Football League, where they face a challenging league encounter against defending champions Rangers International FC on Friday, March 21, at the Lafia City Stadium.

Editorial

We can’t help but feel a surge of pride watching Nasarawa United display such confidence and quality in the President Federation’s Cup. From the first whistle, the intent was clear: they were not there to merely participate; they came to conquer. Ugochukwu Leonard’s early goal was a statement, and Kabir Balogun’s stunning set-piece finish sealed a performance that spoke of ambition and preparation.

We have often spoken about the need for consistency in Nigerian club football, and this performance suggests Nasarawa United are beginning to embrace that challenge. Their early goals allowed them to control proceedings, but what impressed us most was their discipline in seeing out the game without unnecessary risks. They played with maturity, and that’s exactly the kind of performance that makes deep cup runs possible.

We also draw inspiration from the presence of top state officials and dignitaries. Their support is not just symbolic; it’s a reminder that football has the power to unite communities and inspire young people. That backing can be the difference between near success and ultimate triumph.

But let’s not get carried away. The real challenge lies ahead. Two previous runner-up finishes mean they know what it feels like to come close without tasting victory. This season, we urge the team to channel that hunger and turn disappointment into determination.

We’re confident they have the squad and coaching staff to go the distance. If they maintain this level of focus and tactical discipline, there’s every reason to believe Nasarawa United could lift the trophy this year. The next step is crucial, and we will be standing behind them every step of the way.
Did You Know?

1. The President Federation’s Cup was formerly known as the FA Cup and then the Federation Cup.
2. Nasarawa United was founded in 2003 and is nicknamed the Solid Miners.
3. Jos International Stadium, where the match was played, has a seating capacity of 60,000.

4. Flight FC of Gboko are currently competing in the second tier of Nigerian football.

5. Rangers International FC, Nasarawa United’s next league opponents, are the most successful Nigerian club in continental competitions.