Richard Dean
Kano Pillars stunned defending champions Rangers International with a thrilling 4-3 victory in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Wednesday, a match filled with excitement and remarkable goals. The encounter was part of matchday seven and took place in Enugu, showcasing the unpredictable nature of soccer.
First Half: Kano Pillars Dominance
In a first half that left fans on the edge of their seats, Kano Pillars played with determination and skill. They took an early lead when Rabiu Ali netted a penalty in the 15th minute after a foul was committed on Ahmed Musa, who had a significant impact on the game throughout.
- 28th Minute: Zulkifilu Muhammed scored the second goal, thanks to another assist from Musa, displaying the forward’s playmaking ability.
- 37th Minute: Rabiu Ali struck again from the penalty spot, marking his fourth goal of the season, after yet another foul on Musa inside the box.
- Stoppage Time: Musa capped a brilliant half with a solo effort that left four Rangers defenders in his wake, sealing a commanding 4-0 lead for Pillars at halftime.
This performance marked a significant turnaround for Kano Pillars, especially after suffering a defeat to Akwa United just days prior.
Second Half: Rangers’ Remarkable Comeback
The second half saw a surprising shift in momentum. Rangers International, undeterred by their first-half deficit, mounted a spirited comeback.
- 46th Minute: Isaac Saviour began the revival, scoring the first of his two goals to bring Rangers within three.
- 59th Minute: Saviour struck again, reducing the lead to just 4-2.
- 90th Minute: Silas Nenrot added another for Rangers, making it a tense finish with the score at 4-3.
Despite the late surge from Rangers, the clock ran out before they could equalize, leaving Kano Pillars to celebrate their hard-fought victory.
Key Players Shine
Musa’s contribution to the game was undeniable. Not only did he score a fantastic goal, but his assists were pivotal in constructing Pillars’ early dominance. Rabiu Ali’s double penalty conversion highlighted his coolness under pressure, while Zulkifilu Muhammed showed skill and tenacity throughout the match.
Other League Updates
In additional matches on the same day, Lobi Stars faced El-Kanemi Warriors at the Lafia City Stadium. Lobi Stars initially led 2-0 with goals from Ossy Martins but later conceded two goals, leading to a draw 2-2.
This round of matches highlights the evolving dynamics of the league, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum from one match to the next, as teams vie for championship glory.
Conclusion
In a match filled with drama, Kano Pillars demonstrated resilience and tactical skill in their 4-3 triumph over Rangers. This win not only boosts Pillars’ standing in the NPFL but also sends a clear message to their rivals about their competitive spirit. With each match day, the excitement of the NPFL continues to grow, promising fans unforgettable moments throughout the season
