Salim Fago Lawal Scores as Viktoria Plzeň End Winless Run with Victory Over Hradec Králové

Salim Fago Lawal was on target as FC Viktoria Plzeň secured an emphatic 3–0 victory over FC Hradec Králové in a Czech First League encounter.

The win marked a crucial turnaround for Viktoria Plzeň, ending a frustrating five-game winless run across all competitions.

Lawal, who was part of the Nigeria national football team squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, opened the scoring just one minute before halftime to set his side on their way to victory.

The goal was the 23-year-old striker’s second for the club since joining from Croatian side NK Istra 1961 in January.

Under the guidance of coach Martin Hyský, Viktoria Plzeň controlled the match and added two more goals to seal a comfortable win.

The result moves Plzeň up to third place on the league table with 45 points from 25 matches, strengthening their push near the top of the standings.

They will now turn their attention to their next league fixture against Bohemians 1905.

Opinion: Lawal Showing Early Promise in Europe

For Salim Fago Lawal, scoring again so soon after his arrival suggests he is adapting quickly to life in the Czech league.

Moving clubs mid-season can be challenging for many players, especially young strikers trying to prove themselves in a new environment. However, Lawal’s ability to find the net and contribute to an important victory shows the kind of potential that likely attracted Viktoria Plzeň in the first place.

If he continues to grow in confidence and maintain his scoring form, the Nigerian forward could become an important attacking option for the club—and possibly strengthen his case for more opportunities with the Super Eagles in the future. ⚽