NPFL: Barau FC Player Suffers Throat Cut as Katsina United Match Ends 1-1
Tension erupted on Saturday during a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match between Katsina United and Barau Football Club when Barau FC player, Nana Abraham, was attacked and left with a deep cut on his neck after some enraged fans invaded the pitch.
The incident occurred shortly after Barau’s Orji Kalu scored in the 69th minute to level the game at 1-1, a goal that appeared to anger some Katsina United supporters inside the stadium.
Barau FC confirmed the attack through a post on their official X handle, stating:
“70’ The match is temporarily halted following an attack on Barau FC player, Nana Abraham. Katsina United | 1-1 | Barau FC.”
Just moments earlier, the club had celebrated the equaliser with another update that read:
“69’ Goal Orji Kalu level the scores. Katsina United | 1-1 | Barau FC.”
Images from the scene showed Nana Abraham bleeding from a neck wound as officials and teammates rushed to control the situation on the pitch. The match was briefly halted as security operatives intervened to restore order and protect the players.
Despite the tension, the game resumed and ended 1-1 after normal time.
As of the time of this report, neither Katsina United nor the NPFL management had released an official statement regarding the incident.
The attack has again raised concerns about fan violence and inadequate security at Nigerian football venues, with many calling for immediate disciplinary action and stronger measures to safeguard players and officials in future matches.
