Ahmed Musa caged as Akwa United down Kano Pillars in Uyo
Akwa United FC secured their first victory of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, edging Kano Pillars 2-0 in a tense encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
The hosts ended their five-match winless streak, which included three consecutive losses after opening the season with back-to-back draws.
Kano Pillars, buoyed by the inclusion of Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa in their starting XI, aimed to maintain their momentum following a promising start to the campaign. Musa, a club legend, was named in the lineup to inspire the visitors, but the day belonged to Akwa United, who produced a disciplined performance to claim all three points.
The Promise Keepers dominated possession from the onset and created several chances, but the breakthrough came just before the interval. Defender Endurance Edebediri rose highest to connect with a perfectly delivered corner, heading the ball into the net on the stroke of half-time to send the home fans into jubilation.
Despite both teams battling hard in the second half, neither side managed to add to the tally until Friday Apollos off from the bench doubled the scoreline for Akwa United for his second goal of the season after scoring vs Rivers United.
Kano Pillars increased their attacking efforts, but Akwa United’s defence, marshalled by Edebediri, stood firm to secure the advantage and maximum points.
The result marks a much-needed morale boost for Akwa United, who had been under pressure to get their season on track.
Meanwhile, Kano Pillars will be disappointed with the outcome, especially with the high expectations following Musa’s inclusion.
The win lifts Akwa United out of the relegation zone, offering hope for a revival as they aim to build on this hard-fought result.
