NPFL:Late Heroics Seal Crucial Victory For Barau FC Against Plateau United

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By Sedara Philip

Barau FC delivered a spirited performance on Monday night, staging a dramatic comeback to defeat Plateau United in their Matchday 28 clash of the Nigeria Premier Football League at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata.

The visitors struck early, as Vincent Temitope found the back of the net in just the 4th minute to stun the home crowd. Plateau United maintained early pressure, but Barau FC gradually grew into the contest.

The equaliser arrived in the 38th minute through Henry Ezeonye, who reacted quickest after Sunday Antony’s well-struck free kick rebounded off the woodwork. Ezeonye calmly slotted into an empty net to register his first NPFL goal for the Maliya Boys, bringing his season tally to four goals and one assist.

The decisive moment came in the second half when Stanley Oganbor, returning from injury, was introduced as a substitute. The forward made an instant impact, netting the winning goal to mark his comeback in style and claim his third goal of the campaign.

Both teams had chances to alter the scoreline, with Sugau Aliyu and Sunday Antony going close from set pieces. However, their free kicks narrowly missed the target as the game remained fiercely contested until the final whistle.

Oganbor’s match-winning performance earned him the SWAN Man of the Match award, capping a memorable night for the forward.

The victory lifts Barau FC to 10th position on the NPFL table with 37 points from 28 matches, strengthening their ambition of securing a continental qualification spot.

Speaking after the match, Barau FC Technical Adviser Eugene Agagbe praised his players’ determination and resilience.

“First of all, we thank Almighty God for the victory. Our players did very well and deserved commendation,” he said, describing the encounter as a tough but rewarding battle.

Attention now shifts to a highly anticipated Kano derby as Barau FC prepare to face Kano Pillars on Sunday, 8 March 2026, in a Matchday 29 fixture at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

Coach Agagbe expressed confidence ahead of the derby and called on supporters to turn out in large numbers to cheer both Kano-based NPFL sides in what promises to be an electrifying contest.