By Chigozie Chukwuleta
Nasarawa United Technical Adviser, Mangut Mbwas expressed excitement after his side survived a late Rivers United comeback to win on penalties and advance to the President Federation Cup quarter-finals at Awka Stadium on Saturday, June 6.
Coach Mbwas said his team took the lead with 2-0, but lapses allowed Rivers United to equalize and drag the round of 16 tie into penalties. “In football, everything has its own time, if you have chances, you take it, if not your opponent will take it and that’s what happened. We took our own chances when we had it and when we collapsed, our opponents took their chances. I am happy we came out victorious at the end”, he said
The coach noted Nasarawa United played with a depleted squad due to injuries and relies on many young players. “You cannot expect them to meet up but they did their best,” he said
He described the clash with Rivers United as a familiar battle saying “We always know it will be tough fight.”
With the quarter-final ticket secured, Coach Mbwas said the team will move focus on the next stage.
“Every stage is more difficult than the former. We will do our best to see how far we can go. Every club wants to win the Federation Cup and Nasarawa United is working hard toward that goal by the grace of God”.
The coach who enjoyed a lot of support from the Awka fans also recalled his time with Rangers at Awka Stadium with nostalgia, thanking fans for their support.
“During my stay with Rangers, we had a football loving family here and we enjoyed wonderful support. They showed me that same love today. I thank them for their support,” he said.
He also commended the state FA led by chief Chikelue Iloenyosi and the open nature of the game, noting “the game was open for everybody to express themselves and I believe people were entertained.”
