Latest News
Lawal back from injury as Viktoria Plzen slip to opening-day defeat against Slovan Liberec
Salim Fago Lawal made his first competitive appearance since March but could not prevent Viktoria Plzen from beginning their league campaign with a 3-1 home defeat by Slovan Liberec.
The Super Eagles forward, who had been sidelined by a serious injury since mid-March, returned to action as Plzen opened their new season in disappointing fashion in front of their own supporters.
Lawal’s comeback comes after he suffered a season-ending setback in Viktoria Plzen’s 2-0 victory over Bohemians on 15 March 2026, an injury that halted his momentum and ruled him out of the remainder of that campaign.
The Nigerian’s availability again is seen as a significant boost for Viktoria Plzen, who are hopeful the striker can quickly rediscover form and add much-needed firepower as the season progresses.
Liberec take control despite Plzen fightback
On the pitch, however, the evening belonged to Slovan Liberec. The visitors went in front midway through the first half when Ladra inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net in the 27th minute, handing Liberec the lead.
Plzen responded early in the second half. Krcik levelled the contest from the penalty spot in the 51st minute, briefly shifting the momentum and raising hopes of a turnaround for the home side.
But Liberec regained the initiative in the closing stages. Nigerian forward Soliu Afolabi struck in the 76th minute to put the visitors back in front, capitalising on Plzen’s failure to build on their equaliser.
Dulay then confirmed the result in stoppage time, adding a third goal in the 90th minute to secure a 3-1 victory and leave the home crowd frustrated on the opening weekend.
Important milestone for Nigerian forward
While the result was a setback for Viktoria Plzen, Lawal’s return to competitive football represents a key milestone in his rehabilitation.
The 20-year-old forward will now aim to build on these first minutes back on the pitch, re-establish himself within the squad and push for more regular opportunities under the coaching staff as Viktoria Plzen look to improve over the course of the season.