A 42nd minute header by Umar Mustapha was all Kano Pillars needed to condemn Abia Warriors of Umuahia to a 1-0 defeat at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, in the matchday 24 fixture of the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League.
It was Pillars’ first win over Umu Chineke in five meetings, having lost to the Warriors in the last four games between both sides.
READ ALSO: NPFL: Kwara United Jubilate As Wasiu Jimoh Strikes Down Bayelsa United In Ilorin
Abia Warriors Technical Adviser, Imama Amapakabo, made only one change to the side that thrashed Sunshine Stars 3-0 in Umuahia in the last home fixture with Hussaini Abdullahi taking the place of Emmanuel Ogbuagu at the heart of defence, the latter missing out for accumulated yellow cards.
The game started on a cautious note, with both sides being weary of each other. There was nothing to separate the two until the goal that came in the 42nd minute.
A rare chance presented itself to the home side off a counter attack, and the unmarked Umar Mustapha headed home Zulkifilu Mohammed delivery in what turned out to be the match winner.
The second period was cagey as both sides cancelled out each other. However, the visitors came close to leveling the scores when Anthony Ijoma met substitute, Nur Mohammed’s cross, but his header went wide.
Despite a fight back from the Warriors, Sai Masiguda held on to see off the game.
Up next for Abia Warriors is a mid-week fixture against reigning Champions and Oriental Brothers, Enugu Rangers on Wednesday, 29th February 2025.
