Kano Pillars forward Ahmed Musa is celebrating a successful return to the pitch, having made a notable impact in their thrilling 2-1 victory over Niger Tornadoes during a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match-day 18 at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Saturday.
After being sidelined for the previous two games due to a minor injury, Musa rejoined the starting lineup and scored a decisive stoppage-time goal, securing the victory for Usman Abdallah’s squad. This goal marked Musa’s sixth of the season, and the win elevated Kano Pillars to seventh place in the league standings.
“Pure joy, hard work, and passion captured in a single frame! What a game, what a win—the emotions in the picture say it all. SAI MASU GIDA,” Musa shared on his X page.
Since rejoining Kano Pillars at the beginning of the season, Musa has made a significant impact, contributing six goals and two assists in just 11 appearances. His previous match before Saturday was a tough 1-0 loss to Rivers United on December 1. Unfortunately, he also missed the Northwest derby against Katsina United and the team’s subsequent 2-0 defeat against 3SC in Ibadan.
Currently, Musa ranks as the club’s second-highest goal scorer, trailing only midfielder Rabiu Ali, who has netted eight goals. The team’s next challenge awaits as they travel to Maiduguri to compete against El-Kanemi Warriors.
Shooting Stars Coach Speaks On Win Over Rangers
Shooting Stars head coach, Gbenga Ogunbote shared insights on how his team managed to end Rangers’ impressive 10-game unbeaten streak in the Nigeria Premier Football League with a 1-0 victory at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu on Sunday. Former Flying Eagles captain Ikouwen Utin scored the decisive goal in the first half.
“We anticipated a tough game in Enugu,” Ogunbote remarked after the competitive match. “Ending a 10-game unbeaten run is a notable achievement. While we capitalized on some fatigue and other factors, it’s clear that our determination for points was significant.”
He added, “We had numerous chances that we didn’t convert, but our effort shone through, leading us to a well-deserved victory.”
Looking ahead, Shooting Stars will prepare to host Kwara United in their next league encounter this weekend.
Finidi George Unhappy With Rivers’ Defense
Rivers United technical adviser Finidi George has pinpointed the defence as a crucial area for improvement following their matchday 18 draw against Nasarawa United in Lafia on Sunday, where they conceded an early goal.
While Finidi acknowledged the value of securing a point, he expressed concerns over the team’s defensive lapses. “I’m satisfied with the point, but we need to address how we conceded. Maintaining focus throughout the game is vital,” he stated.
He noted that lapses in concentration had impacted their previous matches, including against Rangers and now in Lafia. Rivers United’s recent performance saw them drop to second place with 33 points, highlighting the need for continued improvement as the season progresses.
