Plateau United suffered their first home defeat of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season after losing 3-2 to Sporting Lagos in an entertaining Matchday 9 encounter at the New Jos Stadium on Sunday.

The Peace Boys dominated large parts of the first half offensively, creating numerous chances, but defensive vulnerabilities and Sporting Lagos’ pace ultimately proved costly as the visitors snatched a late winner.

Sporting Lagos took the lead in the 10th minute after a long ball caught Plateau United’s high defensive line out of position. Goalkeeper Okiemute Odah came off his line but hesitated, allowing the Sporting Lagos attacker to round him and slot into an unguarded net.

Odah picked up an injury during the incident and was replaced by Amah John in the 14th minute.

Plateau United responded with sustained attacking pressure, repeatedly testing Sporting Lagos goalkeeper Clinton. Victor Dawa came close on several occasions, including efforts in the 22nd and 23rd minutes, as the hosts pushed for an equaliser.

Their pressure paid off in the 34th minute when Dawa finished confidently to bring Plateau United level. The forward struck again in first-half stoppage time, reacting quickest after a scramble inside the box from a corner to put the Peace Boys ahead at 2-1.

Plateau United went into the break with the advantage after an impressive attacking display that produced 11 shots on target in the first half. However, their aggressive high line continued to leave space behind the defence for Sporting Lagos to exploit.

The visitors capitalised on those weaknesses after the break, scoring twice to turn the game around and restore parity at 2-2 before the closing stages.

Plateau United’s task became more difficult in the 79th minute when Alex Agahowa received a second yellow card for a tackle on Hadi, leaving the hosts with 10 men.

Sporting Lagos took advantage late on, with a spectacular strike sealing a 3-2 victory and handing Plateau United their first home loss of the campaign.

The result will be a disappointment for Plateau United after their strong first-half performance, but the visitors’ direct balls over the defensive line and the pace of their attackers exposed problems the hosts could not resolve.

Plateau United will now turn their attention to an away fixture against Katsina United as they look to respond to the setback.