2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 8: Kano Pillars held by Kwara United FC

Posted : 21 October 2024

Kano Pillars dropped two crucial points at home after being held to a 1-1 draw by Kwara United in a tightly contested Matchday 8 fixture of the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

The match took place on Sunday, 20th October 2024, at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, Katsina.

The Sai Masu Gida, fresh from a thrilling 4-3 victory against Rangers in their previous game, struggled to find their rhythm as Kwara United controlled much of the first half with their fast-paced and aggressive play.

With Technical Adviser Usman Abdallah absent due to suspension following his dismissal during the midweek clash against Rangers, Chief Coach Ahmed Garba ‘Yaro Yaro’ took charge of the team for this fixture.

Kwara United’s early dominance nearly resulted in a breakthrough, as they came close to scoring twice within the first 30 minutes.

The Harmony Boys rattled the post with a thunderous long-range strike in the 34th minute, smashing against the crossbar.

Sai Masu Gida had their first significant chance in the 27th minute when captain Ahmed Musa delivered a precise pass to Zulkifilu Mohammed inside the box, but Zulkifilu's effort sailed wide, frustrating the home fans.

As the half drew to a close, Sai Masu Gida had a promising opportunity through Rabiu Ali’s well-placed free-kick, but Kwara United’s goalkeeper made an excellent save to keep the score level at halftime.

The second half kicked off with Kano Pillars making two substitutions, as Shehu Abdullahi and Sudais Ali Baba were replaced by Yusuf Bala Maigoro and Mustapha Umar in a bid to inject fresh energy into the squad.

Despite the tactical changes, Kwara United struck first in the 50th minute when Samaila Gata capitalized on a defensive mix-up between Pillars’ center-backs Rasheed Alasan and Habibu Yakubu, slotting the ball past the goalkeeper.

However, Sai Masu Gida fought back and found an equalizer in the 57th minute. Ahmed Musa once again played a pivotal role, delivering a pinpoint cross that Zulkifilu Mohammed expertly headed into the back of the net to make it 1-1.

Rabiu Ali had two chances to secure a winner for the home side but was unable to convert. His first effort narrowly missed the target, while his second shot was saved and pushed out for a corner by the Kwara United goalkeeper.

Despite late pressure from the hosts, the game ended 1-1, with both teams sharing the points.

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 8: Kano Pillars held by Kwara United FC

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