Ahmed Musa, the captain of the Super Eagles, made a resounding impact upon his return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) by scoring a brace for Kano Pillars in their 2-0 victory over Sunshine Stars at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina. Despite his outstanding performance, which included a key early goal just four minutes into the match, Musa faced a setback by missing a penalty later in the game. This match was crucial for both Musa and his team, as they had been struggling without a win in their previous three attempts, bringing additional pressure on coach Usman Abdallah and the squad. With this victory, Pillars managed to break their losing streak, having previously secured their only win of the season during the opening match against Ikorodu City.
Musa’s journey in the NPFL has been notable, as this match marked his third debut for Kano Pillars, a club where he has had significant success in the past. The striker’s first goal came shortly after receiving a crucial pass from teammate Mustapha Umar, who had skillfully maneuvered down the right flank. Just six minutes into the second half, Musa struck again, doubling Pillars’ lead and undoubtedly boosting the team’s morale after a challenging start to the season. His performance justified the confidence displayed by coach Abdallah in placing him in the starting lineup, and the fans’ excitement resonated in the stands as they witnessed Musa’s return to form.
Despite Musa’s impressive showing, he unfortunately missed a penalty opportunity in the 70th minute, which hit the post, denying him a potential hat-trick. Nevertheless, his brace was instrumental in securing a vital win for the team. This match marked a significant moment in Musa’s career as it consolidated his status as a key player for Pillars, who have now garnered a total of seven points in the league table with two wins, a draw, and two losses. Their current position at seventh place, however, highlights the ongoing challenges the team faces in their quest for consistent performance throughout the season.
Musa’s affiliation with Kano Pillars is far from fleeting, as he returns to the club for a third time, having first joined them from 2009 to 2010 and again from 2019 to 2021. During his earlier tenure at Pillars, he achieved remarkable success, including becoming the top scorer in his debut season with 18 goals before moving on to international opportunities in Europe. His experience and skill set make him a valuable asset for the team, especially as they navigate the competitive landscape of the NPFL. Additionally, Musa’s recent signing alongside Nigeria midfielder Shehu Abdullahi on short-term contracts signals Pillars’ intent to bolster their squad for the 2024/25 season.
Abdullahi, while named on the bench, eagerly awaits his moment to shine again with Kano Pillars, a club where he previously won three NPFL titles between 2012 and 2014. The chemistry between Musa and Abdullahi is likely to enhance the team’s attacking options as the season progresses. Pillars’ win against Sunshine Stars also marked the latter’s second defeat of the season, leaving them stranded at the same seven-point mark as Pillars—only separated by goal difference. The competitive nature of the NPFL makes it crucial for teams to secure victories and climb the league table as they vie for title contention and higher placings.
With Ahmad Musa back in the spotlight, the focus will be on how he can further influence Pillars’ performance in the upcoming matches. His experience, leadership, and goal-scoring ability will be key factors in determining the club’s future success. As the league continues, both Musa and the club have high hopes for a turnaround in their fortunes this season, aiming to regain their status among the top teams in Nigerian football. The excitement surrounding Musa’s resurgence could lead to increased fan support and engagement, which often plays a vital role in a team’s morale and performance. Moving forward, Kano Pillars’ strategy will likely revolve around leveraging Musa’s talents while simultaneously addressing the areas that have hindered their overall performance thus far.
