By Jeremiah Ola
After a goalless draw in their opening game against Cynosure FC, Plateau United bounced back with a strong 2-1 win over Kano Pillars in their second group game at the Gusau Ahlan Pre-season Cup 2025 in Lafia.
The first half was evenly contested, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances. Plateau’s early threat came from Maren, who tested Pillars’ goalkeeper Galadima with a decent effort. He later went down injured following a foul by Idris. Gift and Tongshinen also impressed with their ball movement in midfield, but it wasn’t enough to break the deadlock before the break.
Coach Shola made a bold move during halftime, bringing on Kalu, Kazeem, and Dayo in place of Maren, Tongshinen, and Gideon. The changes made an immediate impact.
In the 57th minute, Kazeem sent a long ball forward to Albert Hillary, who skipped past his marker and squared it for Kalu to tap in. Plateau United had their breakthrough.
A worrying moment came when Timi picked up a shoulder injury and was forced off in the 64th minute. Tarabina replaced him, and Mancha also came on for Abdulmutalif in a double substitution.
Just 11 minutes later, Plateau doubled their lead. Tarabina launched one of his trademark long throws into the box, Davou flicked it on, and Albert Hillary brought it down with his chest before finishing with class.
The captain Albert Hilary was later substituted in the 78th minute, handing the armband to Kalu as he made way for Jonathan. Kano Pillars pulled one back deep into stoppage time through Musa, but it wasn’t enough to stop Plateau United from sealing their first win of the competition.
With four points from two games, Coach Shola’s side will be aiming to carry this momentum into their next outing against One Discovery FC
