Plateau United may have finished runners-up after a penalty shootout defeat to Kano Pillars, but their preseason showcased defensive steel, squad depth, and glimpses of progress under new head coach Oluwasola Adegun.
Across the tournament, Adegun rotated heavily, starting a different XI in every match. This not only highlighted the quality within the squad but also allowed him to assess depth in key positions. While goals were sometimes hard to come by, the Peace Boys displayed improved cohesion and defensive organization a promising sign heading into the new campaign.
The Peace Boys opened with a cagey 0-0 draw against Cynosure FC, a lower-league side renowned for defensive stubbornness. Though sharp in possession, United couldn’t find a breakthrough.
Their standout group performance came in the 2-1 victory over Kano Pillars, with goals from Samuel Kalu and Albert Hilary. Plateau dominated midfield battles, pressed high, and gave fans a glimpse of their attacking potential.
The final group match, a 0-0 draw with One Discovery FC, was less about the result and more about rotation, as Adegun tested his depth with a completely different lineup.
The quarterfinal against FC Basira regional rivals still in Nigeria’s second division was tense and physical. Both sides cancelled each other out in a goalless draw, but Plateau held their nerve in the shootout, winning 5-4 on penalties. It was a moment that underlined the squad’s composure and mental strength.
Against Nasarawa United, the Peace Boys endured a poor first half, looking second-best in intensity and duels. But Adegun’s halftime adjustments turned the tide.
United came alive after the break, pressing higher and attacking with purpose. Goals from Maren Kefas and Joshua Dabo sealed a 2-0 win, sending Plateau to the final. The comeback reflected resilience, tactical flexibility, and growing character.
The final was another battle with familiar foes, Kano Pillars. A red card tested Plateau’s discipline, yet they stayed organized to keep the game goalless.
Ultimately, penalties proved cruel. United missed their opening kick, and Pillars took advantage to lift the trophy. Despite the heartbreak, Adegun’s men walked away with heads held high proof that this is a work in progress with plenty of positives.
Across six games, Plateau conceded just one goal in regulation time. The backline anchored by Wisdom Ndon, Joshua Dabo, Amietimi Enewarikpemi, Tarabina Biweribo, Mustapha Abdullahi, Harrison Ebah, Jonathan Davou, and Abdulmutalif Sanusi looked settled, while goalkeepers Amah John and Domnan Panse pulled off crucial saves.
This defensive record reflects Adegun’s ability to build a disciplined, compact unit in just a short period.
If there’s one concern, it’s in attack. While Kalu, Hilary, Kefas, and Dabo contributed key goals, United struggled to consistently turn dominance into clear-cut chances. Goalless draws against Cynosure, One Discovery, and Pillars in the final highlight the need for more chemistry and clinical finishing up front.
The preseason gave Adegun valuable insight into his squad its depth, resilience, and defensive organization. Though still a team in progress, the Peace Boys showed maturity and signs that they can compete with the best.
Attention now shifts to August 24, when Plateau United travel to Bauchi to face newly promoted Wikki Tourists, coached by none other than former Plateau boss Abdul Maikaba.
Can Adegun’s men turn their preseason foundations into a strong NPFL campaign? The season will be long and demanding, but one thing is clear: Plateau United have laid the groundwork. Whether they rise to the challenge or falter under pressure remains to be seen.
