By Our Sports Reporter in Jos
SADIQ YUSUF was the toast of Jos as his late intervention ensured Plateau United snatched all three points in a gritty 1-0 victory over Kwara United.
In a clash that had “relegation six-pointer” written all over it, both sides looked destined to share the spoils until the 88th minute.
The match, characterized by heavy midfields and high stakes, saw Plateau United extend their impressive unbeaten run to six matches, while the “Harmony Boys” from Ilorin were left singing the blues.
For much of the afternoon, the visitors looked like they might escape with a hard-earned point.
Kwara United’s defensive line held firm against wave after wave of pressure, frustrating the home fans at the New Jos Stadium.
However, the deadlock was finally broken just two minutes from the 90. Super-sub Sadiq Yusuf, fresh off the bench, found space in a crowded box to fire home a clinical winner.
The goal sparked scenes of delirium in the stands, cementing Plateau’s reputation as the NPFL’s late-show specialists.
Dogfight at the Bottom
The result is a massive shot in the arm for Plateau United’s survival hopes.
Having recently shocked Remo Stars away from home, the Jos-based side is hitting form at the perfect time.
For Kwara United, it’s a bitter pill to swallow. Despite a spirited performance, they lacked the clinical edge to punish Plateau on the counter.
The defeat keeps them firmly entrenched in the drop zone battle, with manager Abdullazeez Mohammed left to rue “what might have been” as his side failed to build on their previous win against Warri Wolves.
Sadiq Yusuf (Plateau United): The ultimate impact sub. He only needed one chance to change the destiny of the match.
Harrison Ebah (Plateau United): A constant thorn in the side of the Kwara defense, providing the energy that eventually wore the visitors down.
Saheed Olaniyi (Kwara United): Worked tirelessly upfront but was often isolated as Kwara focused on their defensive shape.
The NPFL title and survival races are heating up, but for today, the Highlands belong to the United of Plateau.
