Plateau United 1-0 Kano Pillars | Nigeria Premier League | May 24, 2026

Plateau United edged Kano Pillars 1-0 at the New Jos Stadium to maintain their grip on top spot in the Nigeria Premier League. The victory extended their unbeaten run at home to nine matches and sent a clear message to their rivals in the title race.

Match Overview

The game was a tense, tactical battle from the first whistle. Plateau United, playing on their expansive home pitch, looked to dominate possession, while Kano Pillars sat deep and looked to counter. The first half saw few clear chances, with both defences on top. The best opportunity fell to Plateau striker Ibrahim Sunusi, who forced a sharp save from the Pillars goalkeeper in the 38th minute.

The deadlock was broken shortly after the hour mark. A corner kick from midfielder Ezekiel Bala was flicked on at the near post by defender William Paul, and the ball fell to central defender Abubakar Sadiq, who volleyed home from close range. The stadium erupted, and Plateau United never looked back.

Kano Pillars pushed for an equaliser in the final 20 minutes, throwing bodies forward, but Plateau’s defence, marshalled by veteran goalkeeper Dele Ajiboye, stood firm. The home side even hit the post through a late counter-attack.

Key Moments

• 38' Save: Kano Pillars goalkeeper denies Sunusi with a fine reaction stop.
• 63' Goal Plateau: Abubakar Sadiq scores from a corner routine.
• 80' Chance: Kano Pillars’ striker heads wide from a promising cross.
• 89' Post: Plateau United hit the woodwork on the counter.

Standings Impact

Plateau United remain top of the Nigeria Premier League table with 54 points from 31 games, two points clear of second-placed Lobi Stars and three ahead of Enugu Rangers. Kano Pillars stay in 7th place on 42 points, still in contention for a top-half finish but now seven points off the top three.

Title Race Context

This win was exactly what Plateau United needed to keep the pressure on their rivals. With five matches remaining, their home form has been the cornerstone of their title challenge. The defensive solidity shown against a dangerous Kano Pillars side will encourage their fans. For Pillars, the defeat was a setback, but their season is far from over, and they will look to bounce back in their next fixture.