Super Eagles star Lawal nets in Viktoria Plzen’s 3-0 win but leaves pitch injured

Salim Fago Lawal returned to the scoresheet as FC Viktoria Plzeň secured a comfortable 3-0 win over FC Hradec Králové in the Czech First League on Sunday, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Super Eagles forward had gone four matches without scoring in all competitions, but he ended that run in style with the opening goal of the match.

The 23-year-old broke the deadlock in the 44th minute. After a quick counterattack, Lawal collected the ball outside the penalty area and struck a powerful right-footed shot that flew into the net.

His well-taken finish gave Plzeň the lead just before half-time and helped the visitors take control of the game.

Plzeň manager Martin Hyský praised the Nigerian forward for the clever movement that led to the goal.

“We had speed up front against Hradec, we wanted to threaten in runs and passes behind the defense,” Hyský said at the post-match.

“This resulted in the situation with the first goal – Lawal timed the run perfectly and took advantage of Zadražil running out. He scored an important goal. It came from good defense. For me, today’s reaction is important, that Plzeň won.”

Lawal: Injury concern after Plzen extend lead

Plzeň continued their strong display soon after the break. Cheick Souaré doubled the lead in the 48th minute with a well-placed header.

Later, Tomáš Ladra sealed the victory in the 66th minute with a calm finish from inside the penalty area to make it 3–0.

Lawal, however, could not complete the match. The Nigerian was substituted in the 64th minute after picking up a knock during the game.

Manager Hyský later spoke about the condition of Lawal and another player who also came off injured.

“I don’t have the latest information on the condition of Dwehe and Lawal, but we will do everything to ensure they are fine for the next match,” Hyský said.

“As for the other absences, we are working on getting them back as quickly as possible. There is a possibility that some will make it to Bohemka, then we have a longer international break ahead of us. After that, I believe that everyone will be fine.”

Lawal’s strike was his second league goal since joining Plzeň in the winter transfer window from NK Istra 1961.

The Nigerian forward was signed as a direct replacement for compatriot Rafiu Durosinmi who left to join Serie A side Pisa.

Before moving to Plzeň, Lawal had already started gaining international recognition. He made his senior debut for the Nigeria national football team during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

With Plzeň aiming to finish the season strongly in the Czech First League, Lawal’s goals and attacking energy could be very important in the final weeks of the campaign.