Katsina United produced a remarkable late comeback to secure a dramatic 2-2 draw against Plateau United in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 10 encounter, scoring twice in the closing stages to deny the visitors a crucial away victory.
Plateau United appeared destined to claim maximum points after Victor Dawa opened the scoring in the 30th minute before Jibril Ibrahim doubled their advantage in the 82nd minute.
However, Katsina United refused to surrender, with Yusha’u Armiya’u reducing the deficit in the 84th minute before Umar Rabiu struck deep into second-half stoppage time to rescue a point for the hosts.
The visitors made the breakthrough on the half-hour mark when Dawa’s effort from a corner-kick situation took a deflection before finding the back of the net.
The goal gave Plateau United an important advantage as they looked to recover from their disappointing 3-2 home defeat to Sporting Lagos on Matchday 9.
Dawa had scored twice in that encounter but was unable to prevent his side from suffering defeat. Against Katsina United, the forward continued his impressive goalscoring form, putting the Jos-based club in a promising position.
Plateau United strengthened their grip on the encounter in the 82nd minute when Jibril Ibrahim scored to make it 2-0. With only eight minutes of regulation time remaining, the visitors appeared firmly in control and on course to secure three valuable away points.
However, Katsina United responded almost immediately. Yusha’u Armiya’u pulled a goal back in the 84th minute, giving the home supporters renewed hope of an unlikely comeback.
The goal shifted momentum towards Katsina United, who continued searching for an equaliser. Their persistence was rewarded in second-half stoppage time when Umar Rabiu found the net to complete a remarkable recovery.
The draw provided some relief for Katsina United following their narrow 1-0 defeat to Kano Pillars in the Northern derby on Matchday 9. Although the hosts were unable to secure maximum points, their late fightback demonstrated determination and resilience.
For Plateau United, the result represented another frustrating afternoon after surrendering a commanding two-goal advantage.
Having conceded twice in the closing minutes, the visitors will be left to reflect on another missed opportunity, while Katsina United can take encouragement from their fighting spirit as both teams prepare for Matchday 11.
