NPFL:El-Kanemi Warriors Edge Kano Pillars 2–1 in Electrifying NPFL Clash
3 min read
By Sedara Philip
El-Kanemi Warriors FC claimed a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Kano Pillars FC in a thrilling Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 7 encounter at the El-Kanemi Stadium in Maiduguri.
The highly anticipated fixture, which kicked off at 4:00 p.m., featured star names on both sides—Warriors’ captain Zayyad Musa leading from the front, while Super Eagles skipper Ahmed Musa inspired the visiting Sai Masu Gida.
The Warriors began the game on the front foot, dominating the opening exchanges and creating several scoring opportunities.
Their best chance of the first half came in the 9th minute when Abbas Usman combined brilliantly with Al’amin Umar, who squared the ball for Mas’ud Danjuma. His effort, however, was denied by a stunning save from Pillars’ goalkeeper Abuci.
In a bid to add more firepower, Coach Kabiru Suleiman Dogo made a tactical switch in the 38th minute, introducing Daddy Abdulrahman for Danjuma. Despite their sustained pressure, both teams went into the break goalless.
The second half saw Kano Pillars launching quick counter-attacks, but it was the “Babagana Umara Zulum Boys” who finally broke the deadlock in the 60th minute. A slick combination between Bilal Yakubu and Al’amin Umar set up substitute Daddy Abdulrahman, who finished brilliantly from a tight angle to send the home fans into wild celebration.
Kano Pillars responded in the 79th minute, grabbing an equalizer that briefly stunned the Maiduguri crowd. However, their joy was short-lived as Daddy Abdulrahman, a Kano-born midfielder, struck again just two minutes later—netting his second goal of the match to restore El-Kanemi’s lead.
The Warriors then showcased their trademark tiki-taka style, keeping possession and controlling the tempo until the referee’s final whistle confirmed a memorable 2–1 victory.
After the game, Ahmed Musa received an Award of Excellence from the El-Kanemi Warriors Supporters Club in recognition of his contributions to Nigerian football.
There were also heartwarming moments as Aminu Obi exchanged a Kano Pillars jersey with his fan Abba, while Captain Zayyad Musa received a branded El-Kanemi Warriors jersey from the same fan.
Coach Kabiru Dogo was similarly honored by the Supporters Club for his exemplary leadership and the team’s impressive progress this season.
Coach Kabiru Suleiman Dogo commended his players’ fighting spirit and lauded the unwavering support of the fans:
“I sincerely thank the government, management, players, and our passionate supporters for standing by us. You came out under the sun to cheer us, and your energy helped us achieve this victory. Our focus now shifts to Umuahia, where we’ll face Abia Warriors. In Sha Allah, we’ll return with good news.”
Captain Al’amin Umar also dedicated the win to the fans:
“You are the backbone of this club. Without you, there is no football. As our coach said, In Sha Allah, we’ll travel and return with something significant. Keep believing in us and continue your prayers.”
This victory marks another step forward for the Zulum Boys, who continue to soar with confidence in the 2025 NPFL season.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
