Skip to main content

Ahmed Musa Shines Bright as SWAN MVP in Pillars' Narrow Victory Over Akwa Utd

By Muzammil Dalha Yola 

In a stunning display of skill and leadership, Nigeria's Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa OON, was awarded the SWAN Man of the Match after his remarkable performance in Matchday 26 of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League season. Musa's brilliance played a pivotal role in Kano Pillars’ hard-fought 1-0 victory over Akwa United at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Wednesday.

The turning point of the match came late in the game when club legend Rabiu Ali netted the decisive goal in the 84th minute, converting a penalty with precision after an Akwa United defender committed a hand ball foul inside the 18-yard box. With poise and experience, Ali sent the opposing goalkeeper, Jean Efala, the wrong way, securing a crucial three points for the home side.

Musa, who holds the record as Nigeria's all-time leading FIFA World Cup goal scorer, showcased his exceptional talent throughout the match. His ability to dictate the tempo with his skillful ball control, vision, and commanding presence was instrumental in Kano Pillars' gameplay. The impact he made on the pitch earned him the Man of the Match honour, as voted by members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State chapter, in attendance and the award was presented by Special Adviser on Youth and Sports Development to the Kano State Governor Hon Sani Musa Danja.

Despite rejoining the club just weeks into the season and missing six matches due to injury, the former Leicester City and CSKA Moscow star has made an impressive comeback. Musa has already scored six goals and has been directly involved in over half of Kano Pillars' total goals this season, proving to be a formidable force for the team.

In his post-match interview, Musa expressed his unwavering determination to lead Kano Pillars to league glory. He conveyed confidence in the team's capabilities as they prepare for their next encounter against reigning champions, Rangers International. Musa also took a moment to acknowledge the passionate support of the Sai Masu Gida fans, stating that their presence gives the team an added edge on the field.

With this win, Kano Pillars FC has extended their unbeaten streak to four matches and is eager to continue the momentum when they host Rangers at the weekend. The victory propels the four-time NPFL champions to 6th place on the league table, accumulating 39 points from 26 matches, reigniting their hopes in the ongoing season.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Coach Abdu Maikaba in High Demand as NPFL Clubs Scramble for His Services

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola  Former coach of Kano Pillars FC, Enyimba FC, Akwa Utd, and Plateau Utd, Abdu Maikaba, is highly sought after by top Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) clubs. The experienced tactician, known for developing young talent from the grassroots, has become a hot commodity in the league. Bendel Insurance and Remo Stars have expressed strong interest in securing Maikaba's services, while Katsina United and Wikki Tourist FC are also in the running. The coach's impressive track record of producing talented players has made him a coveted asset for clubs looking to strengthen their squads. Maikaba's expertise in identifying and nurturing young talent has earned him a reputation as one of the most astute coaches in the NPFL. His ability to develop players from the grassroots level has made him a highly sought-after commodity in the league. As the new 2024/25 season approaches, the race to secure Maikaba's services is intensifying. Which club will ...

NUGA Council Fixes Date for Zone E Preliminaries

By Muzammil Dalha Yola  The Nigeria University Games Association (NUGA) Zone E has scheduled its preliminary games for February 18-24, 2024, at Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology Wudil. This decision was made during the Council's meeting at ADUSTECH Wudil, attended by representatives from various universities in the zone. According to Abdullahi Datti Abdullahi, Chairman of the LOC Media & Publicity Committee, the Council discussed events, modalities, rules, and regulations, as well as necessary facilities to be provided. Prof. Abdulkadir Muhammad Danbazau, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, expressed ADUSTECH's readiness to host the competition successfully. He also solicited support from Council members and appreciated their considerations during the meeting. The meeting saw the election of Prof. Mustapha Abubakar from Federal University Dutse (FUD) and Nura Muhammad of ADUSTECH Wudil as Chairman and Secretary of NUGA Council Zone E, respectively. ...

Coal City International Cup: Organizers Assure of Readiness as Top Clubs Confirm Participation

  By Muzammil Dalha Yola   The stage is set for the inaugural Coal City International Cup, a pre-season football tournament scheduled to hold from August 1st to 11th at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu. Organizers have confirmed that all arrangements are in place for a successful tournament, with all eight participating clubs reaffirming their commitment to the event. According to Ifeanyi Ogbu, Managing Director of Ski-Hi Entertainment, "We still have the eight teams that have confirmed participation. We have not changed or substituted any team." The tournament boasts an impressive lineup, featuring three league champions from their respective countries, including Rangers (Nigeria), Corinthians (Brazil), and Gor Mahia (Kenya). Other participating clubs include 9 times NPFL champions Enyimba (Nigeria), 4 times NPFL champions Kano Pillars (Nigeria), 2023/24 NPFL runners up Remo Stars (Nigeria), FC Coton (Benin Republic), and FC Kallon (Sierra Leone). The tournament promise...