2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 37: North Central derby with Plateau United ends in defeat for Lobi Stars

Posted : 12 May 2025

Despite confirmation of their relegation from the NPFL weeks ago, Lobi Stars FC of Makurdi arrived in Jos with pride to protect—an intent that was clearly demonstrated during the game.

The Peace Boys knew they had to finish strong following their President Federation Cup quarterfinal heartbreak and a slight setback in Owerri on Match Day 36.

The match turned out to be action-packed throughout the first half.

Plateau United began on the front foot, creating several offensive movements.

First, Vincent Temitope’s ferocious run into the opposition area in the 5th minute was denied by a fingertip save from goalkeeper Emmanuel Daniel after a delightful chip.

Minutes later, Temitope appeared to be tripped in the opposition’s penalty area, but the referee deemed it not enough to award a penalty—until the 22nd minute, when Kalu Samuel was tripped, prompting a penalty call.

Vincent Temitope stepped up to convert, extending his goal tally to nine in all competitions for the Peace Boys and putting the score at 1–0.

Plateau United continued their attacking pressure on Lobi Stars, who remained solid in defense and midfield, with fate seemingly on their side.

Lobi Stars' Japhet Kundushima threatened several times, but goalkeeper John Amah’s sharp reflexes kept the lead intact.

Kalu Samuel repeatedly delivered dangerous balls into the area and showed individual brilliance that nearly resulted in another goal. His efforts paid off in the 37th minute when his cross was met with a close-range tap-in by the immensely talented Albert Hilary, who had been plagued by injuries throughout the campaign.

Just four minutes before halftime, Lobi Stars’ Japhet Kundushima capitalized on a loose ball from Harrison Ebah’s rebound to score and reduce the deficit to 2–1 heading into the break.

The second half was more subdued, though it still had flashes of brilliance—particularly from substitute Suleimon Mojereola, whose delightful link-up play nearly handed Yusuf Abdullahi a chance to score. Breaking free against Emmanuel Daniel, Abdullahi curled his shot narrowly wide in the 77th minute.

Three minutes before the end of regulation time, Adamu Abubakar combined well in a tight space to break free, but his goal-bound attempt missed the target yet again. The score remained 2–1, securing a win for Plateau United, who moved into 10th place in the NPFL25 standings ahead of the final round of games scheduled for Sunday, May 25th, across the country.

Lobi Stars’ coach, Tony Bolus, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, emphasizing that despite their relegation, the effort proved they are not a bad side. He also voiced confidence in returning to the NPFL at the first opportunity.

Plateau United’s Technical Adviser, Mbwas Mangut, was pleased with his team’s remarkable display but voiced concern over their failure to convert clear-cut chances.

Mangut remained optimistic about next season, attributing the team’s struggles this season to both internal and external challenges, which began on Match Day 11 when Rangers International of Enugu visited.

Match Day 37 recorded nine home wins, with the only away victory coming from Niger Tornadoes over Sunshine Stars of Akure.

Next up for the Peace Boys is a trip east to face Enyimba International of Aba in the season finale on Match Day 38.

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 37: North Central derby with Plateau United ends in defeat for Lobi Stars

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