Mangut Praises Plateau United’s Resilience After Relegation Escape

Head coach of Plateau United, Mbwas Mangut, has commended his team’s resilience and determination after they successfully navigated the threat of relegation in the 2024/2025 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season. The Tin City side currently sits 10th in the standings with 51 points and just one match remaining, ensuring their top-flight status is secured regardless of the outcome of their final game against Enyimba International.

Reflecting on the season, Mangut admitted it was a challenging campaign, marked by a slow start as players struggled to adapt to his footballing philosophy. “It wasn’t a pleasant start to the season for us, but I thank God we were able to pull through,” he stated. Despite setbacks, including a three-point deduction after an incident with Rangers and a home loss to Niger Tornadoes, Mangut credited his players for their bravery and commitment.

He noted that their fightback from difficult situations demonstrated true grit and unity. “The players showed a lot of commitment. They fought bravely, even when we were counted out. They demonstrated resilience, determination, and a strong will to succeed,” Mangut added.

As Plateau United prepares to face Enyimba, the coach remains proud of his team’s spirit and ability to overcome adversity.

Editorial

The story of Plateau United’s survival in the 2024/2025 NPFL season is a testament to grit, resilience, and strategic leadership. When the season began, the team found itself struggling not just against opponents but against the weight of expectations and the challenge of adapting to a new coaching philosophy under Mbwas Mangut. What makes this journey remarkable is not just their escape from relegation, but the manner in which it was achieved with discipline, teamwork, and an unyielding belief in their own abilities.

Mangut’s leadership played a crucial role in this turnaround. His acknowledgment of the team’s early struggles shows humility, while his ability to inspire confidence during tough moments speaks to his effectiveness as a leader. Plateau United’s three-point deduction and a critical home loss to Niger Tornadoes could have shattered their morale. Instead, it seemed to fuel their determination to fight back.

For fans of Nigerian football, this is a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement the NPFL brings. For Plateau United, it’s a stepping stone proof that with the right mentality and commitment, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome. As Mangut and his men prepare for their final match against Enyimba, they do so with heads held high, knowing that they have not only survived but grown stronger.

Did You Know?

1. Plateau United were NPFL champions in the 2017 season, marking one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.
2. The team is based in Jos, Plateau State, and plays its home matches at the New Jos Stadium, which has a capacity of 44,000.
3. Their three-point deduction this season was the result of a disciplinary action following incidents during a home match against Rangers, adding to the team’s struggle for survival.
4. Mbwas Mangut served as an assistant coach at Rangers before taking up the head coach role at Plateau United, bringing valuable experience to his new role.
5. Plateau United’s escape from relegation this season marked the third consecutive year they have remained in the NPFL’s top tier, solidifying their place as one of the league’s resilient teams.