Continental bound? Mangut challenges Nasarawa United to secure African ticket

Nasarawa United technical adviser Mbwas Mangut has expressed immense satisfaction following his side’s dominant victory over Rivers United in Matchday 31 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), while formally revealing the club’s continental aspirations.

The “Solid Miners” surged into third position on the league standings following a comprehensive 4-1 dismantling of Rivers United at the Lafia City Stadium on Monday afternoon.

The clinical performance saw Ngei Oluka-Efor, Abubakar Abdullahi, Chimezie Victor, and JoFrank Istifanus all find the back of the net for the hosts, while Taiwo Abdulrafiu managed to grab a solitary consolation goal for the visitors.

Mangut Outlines High-Stakes Target For Nasarawa United

A clearly elated Mangut, speaking in the aftermath of the emphatic victory, confirmed that the club’s primary ambition is now firmly fixed on securing a continental ticket before the current campaign concludes.

“It is a thing of joy to have scored this number of goals against a very strong side and former league champions like Rivers United,” the tactician told journalists.

“We were very much aware of the importance of goal difference as the league edges towards its climax. We spoke extensively about this during our training sessions. Furthermore, our Executive Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, also emphasized this goal during our recent Sallah homage visit, providing us with the extra motivation needed to deliver on the pitch.”

Pushing for the Top Two

The gaffer further revealed that the Lafia-based outfit will not rest on their laurels but will continue pushing to secure a finish within the top two spots of the NPFL hierarchy.

“I must praise my wards for strictly adhering to our tactical game plans throughout the match,” Mangut added.

“Our next encounter against Kwara United in Lagos will be approached with the utmost seriousness, as we are fully aware of exactly what stage of the competition we are in now. Our ultimate target remains to finish the season positioned between the top two sides in the country.”

Nasarawa United’s climb to third position currently places them on 50 points—just two points adrift of Rivers United and four points behind the table-topping Enugu Rangers. With the title race entering its final stretch, the Solid Miners appear primed to fight for a return to African club competition.