Lobi Stars head coach Mika Lonnström commended his team for their strong performance in a 1-0 win against Plateau United in the North Central derby at the Lafia City Stadium. Waheed Adebayo’s decisive goal just before halftime secured the victory and handed Lobi Stars bragging rights in the local rivalry.
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Lonnström lauded his team’s defensive organisation and overall play, stating, "The team played good football with strong defending. The first half was fantastic, and the three points are very important for us." The win lifted Lobi Stars to 15th place in the league standings with 19 points from 17 games.
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Their next challenge will be an away fixture against Bendel Insurance on Matchday 18.
Editorial
Lobi Stars’ victory in the North Central derby is a testament to their resilience and tactical discipline under Mika Lonnström. Securing such a critical win against a rival like Plateau United boosts the team’s morale and provides much needed momentum as they battle to climb the league standings.
This result highlights the importance of preparation and defensive strength, especially in closely contested matches. The role of Waheed Adebayo’s well timed goal cannot be understated, as decisive moments like these often define a team’s season.
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We hope Lobi Stars build on this success as they fixtures, ensuring consistency in defence and attack. Their journey underscores the unpredictability and competitiveness of the Nigerian Professional Football League NPFL.
Did You Know?
The North Central derby is one of the fiercest rivalries in Nigerian football, [drawing](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/football-training-and-coaching/) significant local attention.
Waheed Adebayo’s match winning goal marked his second of the season.
Mika Lonnström, a Finnish coach, brings international [experience](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/international-nigerian-footballers/crystal-palace-target-emanuel-emegha-amid-chelsea-interest/) to Lobi Stars, having managed teams in multiple countries.
Lobi Stars’ current position in the [NPFL standings](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/football-law-and-ethics/) reflects their struggle for form earlier in the season.
Plateau United are former NPFL champions, having won the league title in 2017.