Kano Pillars' impressive start to the season came to a halt as Remo Stars secured a 2-0 victory at the Muhammad Dikko Stadium in Katsina, Pillars' adopted home ground.
After an emphatic 3-0 win against Ikorodu City in their opening game and a solid point on the road at Bayelsa United, the Sai Masu Gida were favorites to clinch a victory in front of their loyal traveling fans.
However, Remo Stars had other plans, as they took advantage of a defensive lapse in the 25th minute when Ismaila Sodiq beat the offside trap to slot home the opener.
Moments later, captain Rabiu Ali came close to equalizing from a free-kick at the edge of the box, but his effort was blocked by the resilient Remo Stars defense.
Rabiu had another opportunity from a set piece, but his attempt sailed off target, leaving the home side trailing at the break.
Seeking to spark a comeback, technical adviser Usman Abdallah introduced Abdulmajid Aminu in place of Mustapha Salisu, who was making his first appearance of the season.
However, things took a turn for the worse in the 59th minute when Kwame Mawuena doubled Remo Stars' lead with a composed finish, effectively putting the game out of reach for the home team.
In the 69th minute, Abdallah made further changes, bringing on Mustapha Umar and Nelson Abiam for Auwalu Ali Malam and Mubarak Karmami in a bid to add fresh legs to the attack.
Despite piling on the pressure, Kano Pillars could not find a way past Remo Stars' Beninese international goalkeeper, Kayode Obassa, whose stellar performance kept the Sai Masu Gida at bay.
After the match, Usman Abdallah expressed his disappointment in the defeat, acknowledging that Remo Stars' early preparation for the season, due to their involvement in the CAF Champions League, gave them a competitive edge.
"It's a painful defeat for us, especially at home. Remo Stars have been well-prepared because of their continental commitments, while we are still building up.
"I am confident we will bounce back and aim for maximum points in our upcoming games," Abdallah said.
The Sai Masu Gida will now turn their attention to their next fixture, an away trip to southeastern Nigeria, where they will face Abia Warriors.
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