Hysky hails Nigeria’s Salim Fago Lawal after Plzeň heroics

FC Viktoria Plzeň head coach Martin Hysky has joined the Salim Fago Lawal fan club, labelling the Nigerian striker a “dangerous” asset following his match-winning display on Saturday.

The Nigerian international was the catalyst for Plzeň’s hard-fought 2-1 victory away at SK Sigma Olomouc, opening his account for the Czech giants in clinical fashion. Lawal, who made the switch from Croatian side NK Istra during the January window, appears to have found his feet in record time.

Lawal wasted no time making his presence felt, ghosting into the box to fire the visitors ahead in the 17th minute. Beyond the goal, it was his tactical discipline in “non-football” conditions that left his manager purring.

“It’s very positive that he finished off the set piece and was in the right place. He reacted great,” Hysky told the club’s official website.

“It was a match of great intensity in conditions that were not exactly football-like. He helped a lot with his runs behind the defence and was vital in our pressing situations.”

Salim Fago Lawal Is More Than Just a Number Nine

While Lawal was recruited to lead the line, Hysky highlighted the 21-year-old’s ability to hold up play and bring others into the game—a trait often missing in modern young strikers.

“He behaved great even when his back was to the opponent’s goal. He kept some difficult balls and again gave a very good performance,” Hysky added.

The coach believes the Super Eagles prospect is only scratching the surface of his potential, noting that his versatility allows him to occupy multiple roles in the final third.

“We are happy to have him here because this is exactly the type of striker that will help us be dangerous. I am happy that he can handle the number nine position, but he is also capable of playing elsewhere. I believe he will get better and better.”

The January Masterstroke

Since arriving from Croatia, Lawal has rapidly evolved into a fan favorite at the Doosan Arena. His high work rate and innate ability to thrive under physical pressure have added a new dimension to Plzeň’s attack as they look to climb the table.

With a manager who clearly trusts his “gut feel,” Lawal is quickly becoming one of the most exciting African exports to watch in the Czech First League this season.