From Abel Leonard, Lafia
As the 2022 Aiteo Federation Cup enters the round of sixteen stage, players and officials of Nasarawa United have expressed their readiness ahead of their clash against Insurance of Benin.
Speaking shortly after having a feel of the Enyimba FC Stadium in Aba, Abia State on Friday evening, club Chairman, Isaac Danladi, told the Club’s media that no stone would be left unturned in the clash, stressing that the Solid Miners were already motivated to win this year’s FA Cup after narrowly losing it to Bayelsa United last year.
“Let me, once again, congratulate everyone of us for the success we recorded in our last game against Sokoto United in Kaduna. In fact, it was a miraculous victory for us, and has opened the gateway for us to get to this year’s final.
“We will approach every game the way it comes, and tomorrow’s game isn’t an exception.
“Insurance have a blend of young, experienced and aggressive players, which means we must approach the game like a cup final.
“We won’t disrespect them because they would want to prove a point.”
He noted that Nasarawa United continue to enjoy the support of fans from across the country, especially back home in Nasarawa State, hence the need to satisfy their appetite.
“Everyone at home and across the length and breath of the society is behind us and we can’t afford to disappoint them.
“You all read what those on our official WhatsApp platform said when we defeated Sokoto United, especially the words of congratulations and encouragement from the Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Abdullahi Sule.
“Those words should further spur us to give our all in the remaining games, even though I know, by the grace of God, we won’t return home empty-handed.”
Barrister Danladi disclosed that all outstanding match-winning bonuses due to the team have been paid by the Government.
“To further boost your morale ahead of tomorrow’s game, I am glad to inform you that all your outstanding match-winning bonuses have been paid by the Government. “
Reacting on behalf of the players, former junior international, King Osanga, thanked the Chairman, Management and supporters of the Club for their solidarity,  assuring that they would give their all for success to be achieved.
“We thank you for your words of encouragement. We also thank all those who daily stand by us.
“No match is small. We will approach tomorrow’s match with all the vigour it requires.
“By the grace of God, it would be good news for us.”
Recall that On July 8th, 2021, goals from Chinedu Ohanachom,  Anas Yusuf(now with Wikki Tourists FC of Bauchi) and Adamu Hassan ensured Nasarawa United annihilated Insurance of Benin 3-1 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, to book a round of sixteen ticket in the same knockout FA Cup competition.
Tomorrow’s (Saturday ) match against Insurance of Benin comes up by 4pm, local time, at the Enyimba FC Stadium,  Aba Abia State.