Nasarawa United captain King Osanga has expressed disappointment following the club’s exit from the President Federation Cup after a penalty shootout defeat to Ikorodu City in the semi-finals.

The encounter, played at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Wednesday, ended 1-1 in regulation time before Ikorodu City secured a 4-2 victory on penalties.

Ikorodu City took the lead in the 11th minute through Ayoola Ibrahim, but Bright Amadi equalised for Nasarawa United four minutes before halftime to level the contest.

Speaking after the match, Osanga admitted the result was painful for the team, which had hoped to lift the trophy for its supporters.

“This truly hurts, no doubt. We wanted to bring a trophy home for our great supporters and fans, but look at the journey,” Osanga told the club’s media team.

Despite the disappointment, the captain highlighted the team’s progress during the competition and expressed optimism about the future.

“We have grown, we have competed with the best, and we have built something here,” he said.

Osanga added that the players must now move on from the setback and focus on preparations for the next campaign.

“Everyone is hurt, but we have to put the pain behind us and rebuild ahead of next season,” he said.