2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 10: Rabiu Ali/Ahmed Musa strike to sink Plateau United FC

Posted : 04 November 2024

It was a dramatic finish at the Muhammad Dikko Stadium as Rabiu Ali and Ahmed Musa scored late in the game to secure all three points for Kano Pillars FC against visiting Plateau United in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 10 clash, held on Sunday, November 3rd.

The Pyramid City side entered the match with a strong resolve to bounce back after a narrow 1-0 loss to Nasarawa United in Lafia.

Watch NPFL Matches LIVE: https://www.africasport.net/livetv/nigeria

The home fans filled the stadium, showing their unyielding support for the hosts, who were eager to redeem themselves and climb into a respectable position in the NPFL standings.

Despite Pillars' initial determination, it was Plateau United who took the lead in the 66th minute through Gafar Saka.

Saka’s well-placed strike silenced the home crowd momentarily, leaving the Kano darlings trailing as the clock ticked down. However, Sai Masu Gida responded by ramping up the pressure, with Rabiu Ali coming close twice but still unable to find the equalizer.

In the 76th minute, the stadium erupted in joy as Rabiu Ali, the NPFL legend, showcased his brilliance once again.

The veteran midfielder curled in a sublime free kick to notch his fifth goal of the season and his second free-kick goal of this campaign, further extending his record as the NPFL’s all-time leading goal scorer.

This equalizer reinvigorated the team and set the stage for a thrilling finale.

The decisive moment came in the second minute of added time. Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, with his trademark burst of speed, sprinted down the left wing, leaving Plateau United's defenders in his wake. With finesse and precision, Musa outwitted the goalkeeper and slotted the ball into the net, sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory for the four-time Nigerian champions.

After the match, Technical Adviser Usman Sheriff Abdallah lauded his players for their resilience and praised their "never-say-die" attitude.

He described the victory as a morale booster, especially after challenging games against Kwara United and Nasarawa United, from which the team managed to collect only one point out of a possible six.

"This victory shows the fighting spirit of our team," Abdallah said, emphasizing the importance of building on this momentum.

Looking ahead, Abdallah shifted his focus to the upcoming Matchday 11 encounter against Bendel Insurance.

He noted that the team is committed to delivering strong performances and assured fans that they are striving for consistency in their away matches.

Abdallah also extended heartfelt appreciation to the loyal fans who traveled from Kano to support the team, promising that brighter days are ahead once they return to their home base.

He commended the Kano State Government for its efforts in renovating the Sani Abacha Stadium, expressing optimism that the ongoing work will be completed soon, enabling Kano Pillars FC to resume matches on their home turf.

Sai Masu Gida now prepares for a challenging trip to southern Nigeria, where they will face Bendel Insurance in Benin. The squad remains determined to build on this hard-fought victory and continue climbing the NPFL standings.

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 10: Rabiu Ali/Ahmed Musa strike to sink Plateau United FC

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics