Kano Pillars withstand Niger Tornadoes fightback as Plateau United secure first win

Kano Pillars survived a late Niger Tornadoes rally to claim a 3-2 victory in a five-goal EuroMatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) thriller at Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday.

The hosts made the stronger start and established a commanding lead before half-time. Ubong Friday opened the scoring for Kano Pillars, while Fabian Nworie added a second to put the home side 2-0 ahead at the interval.

Nworie then struck again nine minutes after the restart, completing his brace and moving Kano Pillars three goals clear. The hosts appeared to be in complete control, but Niger Tornadoes responded with two goals to set up a tense finish.

Godfrey Joseph pulled one goal back for the visitors before Wasiu Jimoh scored to reduce the deficit to 3-2. Niger Tornadoes continued to search for an equaliser during the closing stages, but Kano Pillars defended their advantage and held on for maximum points.

The result gave Kano Pillars a memorable victory in their matchday two encounter, although they were made to work hard after surrendering much of their three-goal cushion. Niger Tornadoes’ late pressure ensured the contest remained in doubt until the final stages, but the home team ultimately secured the points.

At New Jos Stadium, Plateau United recorded their first victory of the season by defeating Kwara United 1-0.

Alex Aghahowa scored the only goal of the match in the 29th minute. His finish was enough to hand the Peace Boys all three points in a closely contested home fixture.

Nasarawa United also earned a narrow home victory, beating Bendel Insurance 1-0 in Lafia.

Sam Pam provided the decisive moment in the 55th minute as the Solid Miners edged another tight contest. Bendel Insurance were unable to find a response, leaving Nasarawa United to take all three points.

The day’s other fixture ended without a goal, with Kun Khalifat FC and Barau FC playing out a 0-0 draw at Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.

The stalemate was the only match among the four fixtures not to produce a winner, while the other three games were decided by a single goal or, in Kano, by the narrowest possible margin after Niger Tornadoes’ comeback.

Full results:

- Kun Khalifat FC 0-0 Barau FC - Nasarawa United 1-0 Bendel Insurance - Plateau United 1-0 Kwara United - Kano Pillars 3-2 Niger Tornadoes