Mangut Hails Nasarawa United President Federation Cup Win Over Rivers United

Nasarawa United technical adviser Mbwas Mangut has praised his side after their hard-fought win over Rivers United in the President’s Federation Cup.

In Awka on Saturday, Nasarawa United defeated Rivers United 5-3 on penalties in a tense Round of 16 clash that swung dramatically after the Solid Miners surrendered a two-goal advantage in normal time.

Nasarawa had led 2-0 before Rivers United staged a comeback to force extra time, but Mangut’s side held their nerve in the shootout to book a place in the quarter-finals.

“This win books our place in the quarter-finals of the competition. We were battered, tested, but unbroken,” Mangut told Nasarawa United’s media.

“Letting a 2-0 lead slip out of your grasp in such a dying moment is the most dangerous scoreline in football.

“A lot of teams won’t survive that, but I thank God and praise my wards for the character shown from the spot.

“Honestly what you need to go deep in this competition that doesn’t offer you a second chance to make amends.”

In a separate development, Rangers International have confirmed that head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu will remain in charge for the 2026/27 domestic and continental seasons.

The Enugu-based club’s general manager, Barrister Amobi Ezeaku, said it would be unreasonable to part ways with the tactician after his recent success, including another NPFL title.

“I assure you all that Ilechukwu remains our coach and will continue with Rangers International,” Ezeaku told reporters.

“Ilechukwu has proved once again why he is among the best coaches we have ever seen in the history of the NPFL. Winning two titles in three years is not an easy achievement.

“So why would you want someone like that to leave after what he achieved with the team this season?”

Naija News reports that Rangers, who clinched the 2025/26 NPFL title on the final day with 68 points, finishing one point ahead of Rivers United, will also represent Nigeria in the 2026/27 CAF Champions League alongside Rivers United.

Ezeaku added that clarity over his own future at the club would be provided within the next three weeks as planning continues for another competitive season.