NPFL: Mangut Mbwas praises Nasarawa United’s resilience after draw at Enyimba

By Dayo Awoniyi

Nasarawa United head coach, Mangut Mbwas, has hailed his players’ resilience and discipline after they battled to a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Enyimba International in Aba on Sunday.

The Matchday 3 clash of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) saw both sides create chances, but neither could find the breakthrough in a contest defined by tactical discipline and missed opportunities.

“It’s a game that both teams gave a good account of themselves,” Mbwas said afterwards.

“We both had our playing and scoring chances. We were lucky to have been able to absorb a very strong side. We created some chances but couldn’t take the opportunities.”

The Solid Miners went into the fixture on the back of a 1-0 home victory over Abia Warriors, and Mbwas admitted that his team approached the game with composure and focus despite the intimidating atmosphere at the Enyimba Stadium.

“Before we came here, I told my players to be more relaxed, noting that Enyimba should be more under pressure, not us, because they are home and looking for the maximum points. Our game plan worked out for us and, at the end of the day, we shared the spoils.”

While the league campaign is still in its early stages, the coach underlined the significance of collecting a point against a formidable side like Enyimba, two-time CAF Champions League winners.

“This result is massive for us, even though the league is just starting. Every point counts, and it’s even more important if it’s against a strong team like Enyimba. We keep improving in each game, and I am glad about that.”

Nasarawa United will now shift focus to their next fixture at home against Wikki Tourists FC, where Mbwas hopes his side can build on the momentum gained from back-to-back positive results.