El Kanemi 1 Heatland 0: Mustapha’s strike sinks The Naze Millionaires

Mustapha’s first half goal helped El-Kanemi Warriors to overcome relegation-threatened Heartland in a rescheduled matchday 35 fixture, decided at the Elkanemi Sports Complex Maiduguri on Saturday.

The tension-soaked tie started with both teams showing early signs of going for the kill. El-Kanemi duo of Lukman Abdulkarim and Ibrahim Mustapha fired off target within the space of seven minutes, while the visitors through Macmarcel Obioha and Roland Koffi stepped up boldly with quick responses that almost drew the first blood.

Returnee striker Mustapha rose highest in the 10th minute of the game to nod home a cross from Lukman Abdulkarim. The goal was celebrated in huge style to mark the return of the forward, who failed to seal a transfer deal in Egypt.

The second half failed to produce anything special as both teams failed to score and at full time, it ended El Kanemi Warriors 1-o Heartland.

The win moves El-Kanemi to 10th spot on the league table, with 48 points from 33 matches. They will now proceed to Kano for a mid-week tie with Pillars. While Heartland are 18th on the log, 37 points from a possible 99. The Naze Millionaires host Niger Tornadoes on matchday 36.