BY ALABI KEHINDE PIUS
Plateau United secured a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Rangers International of Enugu on Wednesday in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 23 clash in Jos.
The encounter lived up to expectations as both sides delivered an entertaining contest, but it was the hosts — nicknamed the Peace Boys — who showed greater urgency early on.
Their bright start paid off in the 17th minute when forward Vincent produced a delightful chip to beat Rangers goalkeeper Lucky Jimoh and hand Plateau the lead.
Rangers responded positively and settled into the game, drawing level in the 30th minute. Captain Chidebere Nwobodo capitalised on a defensive lapse after a well-taken corner kick was not properly cleared, calmly finishing to restore parity for the Flying Antelopes.
However, the home side regained the advantage ten minutes later when the referee awarded a penalty after adjudging that the ball had struck the hand of Rangers defender, Kenneth Igbokwe. Vincent again stepped up and converted coolly from the spot, sending Plateau United into the break with a 2–1 lead.
The second half saw both teams create chances, but neither side could find the net again. Plateau United ultimately held on to claim maximum points, a result that strengthens their push to climb away from the danger zone.
Reacting after the match, Rangers chief coach Ekenedilichukwu Eke described the result as part of football’s unpredictable nature.
“Football is a game where you win, draw, or lose. Today, we lost, and we have to go back and plan ahead for the next game,” he said.
Eke declined to dwell on specific incidents but maintained confidence in his team’s ability to bounce back.
“Our target now is the next game and getting to where we want to be. Today we lost, tomorrow we win. We are going to win,” he added.
He also urged supporters to remain optimistic, praising his players’ effort despite the defeat.
“I want to encourage all our fans to stay positive about Rangers. It’s a good team, and they played well.”
Plateau United manager Gbenga Ogunbote, on his part, said rebuilding the players’ confidence had been key following a difficult spell.
“When players trust you and have confidence in what you’re doing, they will always want to give more. I made them understand that they must add value to their careers and not destroy what they have already built,” he said.
Looking ahead, Ogunbote stressed that his side is focused on finishing the season strongly and securing a respectable position on the NPFL table.
Rangers defeat means the team have lost their first game since the resumption of the second stanza of the 2025/2026 NPFL season.