From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Nasarawa United bolstered their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) survival hopes with a crucial 1-0 victory against Heartland FC in a match-day 35 clash at Pantami Stadium, Gombe, on Sunday, April 27.
Anas Yusuf, the league’s top scorer, secured the win with a 44th-minute goal assisted by Ugochukwu Leonard, bringing his season tally to 16 goals.
Despite playing away from their home ground due to an NPFL sanction, the Solid Miners displayed resilience to defeat relegation-threatened Heartland. A second Yusuf goal in the 79th minute was disallowed for offside, but Nasarawa United held firm for their fourth consecutive home win, following victories over Akwa United, Plateau United, and Rangers International.
The result lifted Nasarawa United to 13th place with 46 points, while Heartland remained 17th with 42 points. Head Coach Salisu Yusuf praised the team, stating, “This win is a significant morale booster. With three matches left, we focus on every point possible.” He thanked Gombe fans, saying, “This feels like home away from home.”
Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon Kwanta Yakubu, rewarded the team with ₦150,000 for their performance, fulfilling his goal-scoring incentive pledge. Yakubu led a delegation to Gombe, welcomed by club chairman Solomon Babanjah.
Nasarawa United face Abakaliki United in the 2025 President Federation Cup quarter-finals on 3 May at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, before meeting Lobi Stars in Enugu on May 7.