By Our NPFL Correspondent
NASARAWA UNITED proved they are the real deal in the NPFL title race after staging a sensational second-half comeback to stun Abia Warriors 2-1 on their own turf.
In a pulsating Matchday 22 encounter at the Umuahia Township Stadium, it was the “Solid Miners” who dug deep to end Abia’s formidable unbeaten home record, leapfrogging them into second place in the process.
The afternoon started like a dream for the home faithful. Star man Chukwuemeka Obioma showed exactly why he is one of the league’s most feared marksmen, rising highest in the 42nd minute to thunder home a cross from the ever-lively Ekpere Oguocha.
The stadium erupted as the Warriors headed into the tunnel with a 1-0 lead, looking every bit like title contenders.
But whatever was said in the Nasarawa dressing room at halftime worked like a charm.
Just two minutes after the restart, the Warriors’ defense switched off, and Habibu Alakija was there to punish them, slotting home a clinical equalizer that silenced the Umuahia crowd.
The momentum had shifted, and Nasarawa’s stars were beginning to shine.
In the 55th minute, the comeback was complete. Jofrank Istifanus found himself with too much space on the edge of the area and unleashed a delightful, curling effort that gave the goalkeeper no chance.
Despite a late onslaught from the Warriors, Nasarawa’s backline held firm to secure a victory that sends shockwaves through the league.
The result sees Nasarawa United climb to second on 38 points—just three points behind leaders Rivers United. For Abia Warriors, it’s a bitter pill to swallow as they drop to third, their invincibility at home shattered by a clinical Lafia side.
Abia Warriors: (1) Obioma 42’
Nasarawa United: (2) Alakija 47’, Istifanus 55’
