Nasarawa United edge out Katsina United on penalties to reach Gusau/AHLAN semi-finals

Nasarawa United defeated hosts Katsina United 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to reach the semi-finals of the fifth Gusau/AHLAN Preseason Tournament.

The quarter-final was decided at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina on Sunday, with Nasarawa United converting four of their five penalties to eliminate the home side and continue their preparations for the new season.

The Solid Miners made the stronger start and took the lead in the fourth minute when right-back Abubakar Abdullahi found the net.

Katsina United were unable to respond before half-time, allowing Nasarawa United to take their advantage into the break. The hosts improved after the restart, however, and their pressure eventually produced an equaliser in the 71st minute through Abba Musa.

Neither team could score again during normal time, leaving the tie to be settled by a penalty shootout.

Nasarawa United showed greater composure from the spot, scoring four penalties to win 4-3 and send Katsina United out of the competition. The result also maintained Nasarawa United’s encouraging form during their pre-season schedule.

Ameh earns man of the match award

Nasarawa United goalkeeper Ameh Godwin was central to the victory.

He made several important saves during the match and then played his part in the decisive shootout, helping the Solid Miners secure their place in the final four.

His contribution was recognised by the tournament organisers, who named him Man of the Match.

The win gives Nasarawa United further confidence as they continue their preparations ahead of the new season. They will now face Kwara United in the semi-finals on Tuesday, 18 August, with kick-off scheduled for 16:00.

Kwara United reached the last four by defeating Niger Tornadoes in their quarter-final match.

Nasarawa United will hope to build on their victory against the hosts when they take on Kwara United, with a place in the final at stake and the opportunity to move closer to winning the Gusau/AHLAN Preseason Tournament.

Nasarawa United line-up

Ameh Godwin; Abubakar Abdullahi, Sam Pam, Victor John, Chidera Nduka (Buchi Amadi, 64′), Harrison Ebah, Oche Bawa (Austine Onyemaechi, 62′), Ugochukwu Leonard (Sabo Gambo, 45′), Ada Umar (Alao Danbani, 62′), Mohammed Umar (Abba Usman, 62′), Aluku Sunday.

Yellow cards

Sabo Gambo 56′

Abubakar Abdullahi 89′