Katsina United produced a spirited late comeback to earn a 2-2 draw against Plateau United in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 10 encounter at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina on Sunday.
The hosts looked set for a disappointing afternoon after conceding twice, but two late goals ensured they rescued a point in front of their home supporters. The result also preserved Katsina United’s unbeaten home record this season, while Plateau United were left frustrated after coming close to securing their first away victory of the campaign.
Plateau United started the contest with confidence and took the lead in the 30th minute through an own goal. Victor Dawa delivered a corner kick into the danger area, but the ball was deflected into the net, giving the visitors the advantage.
The goal put pressure on Katsina United, who tried to respond before the break. However, Plateau United remained organised at the back and protected their lead until half-time.
Katsina United returned for the second half determined to get back into the game. The home side pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Plateau United continued to frustrate their efforts with disciplined defending.
The visitors eventually strengthened their advantage in the 82nd minute through Jibril Ibrahim. The forward finished off a move created by Nenrot Silas to make it 2-0 and put Plateau United in a strong position to claim all three points.
With only a few minutes remaining, the visitors appeared to have done enough to secure the victory. However, Katsina United refused to surrender and increased their attacking pressure in the closing stages.
Their persistence paid off in the 84th minute when substitute Yusha’u Armiya’u reduced the deficit to 2-1. His goal gave the home side renewed belief and set up a tense finish as they searched for a second goal.
Katsina United continued to push forward, taking advantage of the momentum created by Armiya’u’s strike. Their efforts were rewarded in stoppage time when another substitute, Umar Rabiu, found the net from close range to level the score at 2-2.
The late equaliser sparked celebrations among the home supporters and completed an impressive recovery from two goals down. For Plateau United, however, the result was a painful setback after controlling much of the contest and holding a two-goal advantage deep into the second half.
The draw means Katsina United avoided their first home defeat of the season, demonstrating their determination to fight until the final whistle. The comeback could also provide a confidence boost as they continue their campaign in the NPFL.
For Plateau United, the dropped points will be disappointing, particularly after they appeared to have secured a valuable away win. Ogunbote’s side will need to address their late defensive lapses after allowing Katsina United to score twice in the final minutes.
The result left Plateau United on 15 points from 10 matches, while Katsina United moved to 13 points after the same number of games. Both sides will now turn their attention to their upcoming league fixtures as the competition continues.
