Solid Miners, Ikon Allah clash in derby

Nasarawa United host Niger Tornadoes in Lafia on Sunday, September 27, in a northern derby that coach Mbwas Mangut hopes can arrest his side’s disappointing start to the season.

Mangut has made no secret of his frustration at Nasarawa United’s league position, with the Solid Miners collecting just four points from five matches, a return he has called a concern.

He has stressed that his side intend to move past that phase and stabilise going forward, and Sunday’s fixture, with kick-off at 4pm, carries extra weight as a potential turning point.

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Only one point separates the two sides going into the derby. Niger Tornadoes, who sit 13th, were held goalless by Warri Wolves in their last outing and have lost both of their away matches so far this season.

Nasarawa United, one place below in 16th, lost 2-1 away at Kwara United last time out but can point to a win over Bendel Insurance and a home draw with Rivers United this term.

Both technical crews have spent the week working on defensive organisation and clinical finishing, aware that victory in a fixture of this magnitude can provide a psychological lift capable of shifting momentum for the rest of the campaign.

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