Plateau United head coach Gbenga Ogunbote has warned his players against complacency following their emphatic 4-0 victory over Kano Pillars in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). The result ended Pillars’ seven-game unbeaten run and moved Plateau United to the top of the standings after eight matches.
Plateau United delivered an impressive performance at the New Jos Stadium on Sunday, October 11, 2026. The hosts scored twice in each half to record the biggest victory of Matchday Eight and strengthen their position in the early title race.
Speaking after the match, Ogunbote praised his players for their performance but insisted that the result should not distract them from the challenges ahead. He reminded the squad that the league is a long competition and that consistency will be essential throughout the season.
The Plateau United coach said the victory had boosted the players’ confidence and reinforced their belief that they could compete against any opponent in the division.
He explained that defeating a team of Kano Pillars’ quality was an important achievement, particularly because the visitors had gone seven matches without defeat.
Ogunbote also identified the derby atmosphere and Kano Pillars’ impressive unbeaten record as motivating factors for his players. He said ending that run was a positive development that could help the team approach upcoming fixtures with greater confidence.
Paul Samson opened the scoring for Plateau United before former Sunshine Stars striker Dayo Ojo doubled the hosts’ advantage in the first half. Samuel Ayanrinde and Silas Nenrot added two more goals after the break to complete the 4-0 victory.
The result represented a significant response from Plateau United, who took advantage of their home fixture to deliver a commanding performance against one of the league’s established sides.
Ogunbote also pointed to the importance of the victory ahead of upcoming challenges against strong opposition. Plateau United are expected to face demanding tests as the campaign progresses, including fixtures involving reigning champions Rivers United, Enugu Rangers and Shooting Stars.
The coach believes the confidence gained from the Kano Pillars result could help his team approach those encounters with greater belief. However, he maintained that the players must continue working hard rather than assuming that one impressive performance guarantees future success.
The victory lifted Plateau United to first place with 14 points from eight matches. Kano Pillars, meanwhile, dropped to 10th position with 11 points after suffering their first defeat in seven games.
With the NPFL season still in its early stages, Ogunbote's immediate priority will be to ensure Plateau United maintain their momentum while remaining disciplined and focused. The coach will hope his players can turn their latest performance into a consistent run of results as the competition develops.
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