By Eche Amos
Nasarawa United are already looking ahead to their next Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) challenge against Ikorodu City this Saturday after enduring a 4-3 loss last weekend at home to El-Kanemi Warriors.
The Solid Miners, who made a return to the top division after being relegated are braced for a Matchday 4 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos against Ikorodu City FC, who are totally new to the rigours of elite football.
Nasarawa United head coach, Kabir Dogo, who said they are still disappointed with the outcome of their game against El-Kanemi Warriors in Lafia last week Saturday, but acknowledged that they need to focus for the matches ahead.
“We can’t continue to dwell on it,” began Dogo.
“Our focus immediately turns to our next game against Ikorodu City FC in Lagos, and we are looking forward to the opportunity to bounce back.
“We are eager to get back on the pitch and show our supporters and fans what we are capable of.
“We appreciate their patience and continued support.”
Nasarawa United captain, King Osanga, said the team have “reviewed” the loss to El-Kanemi and now know where to make amends ahead of the Ikorodu City game.
“Both the coaches and players have reviewed our last game versus El-Kanemi Warriors, and have identified areas for improvement, and have worked hard in training ahead of subsequent challenges. We are confident in our abilities and ready to give it our all,” Osanga told the club’s media.
Dogo has already made adjustments in his matchday squad that faced El-Kanemi Warriors at home with Habibu Alakija and Umar Ibrahim included in the 20-player travelling squad.
Nasarawa United sit in 13th position on the league table with two points from three games while their next opponents, Ikorodu City, are rock bottom on 20th position with just one point.
Both Nasarawa United and Ikorodu City have never met at any level of club football in the past.
Saturday’s meeting signposts the maiden competitive clash between the two recently promoted clubs who avoided each other throughout the 2023/24 Nigeria National League (NNL) season.
The match will be live on Startimes, Beta Sports Channel 244 from 3pm.