Kwara United secured a vital 2-0 victory over Kano Pillars in a pulsating Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 28 clash at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl, George Innih Stadium, on Sunday.

The Harmony Boys dominated from the outset, with midfielders Akanni Akeem and Shola AbdulRaheem dictating play, while defenders Ibrahim Yahaya and Segun Adekunle stifled Kano Pillars’ advances.

Their relentless pressure paid dividends in the 20th minute when AbdulRaheem was fouled inside the box, earning a penalty. Wasiu Alalade stepped up and converted the spot-kick with composure, sparking jubilation among home supporters.

Kano Pillars, led by Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, struggled to breach the resolute Kwara defence.

The second goal arrived in the second half through substitute Wasiu Jimoh, who fired a powerful close-range strike past the goalkeeper to double the lead.

The visitors had late opportunities but were thwarted by the heroics of goalkeeper Jimoh Gbadamosi and defender Nurudeen Badmus, who kept the clean sheet intact.

Head coach Tunde Sanni praised his side’s discipline, stating: “The players executed the game plan perfectly. This win reflects our standing on the league table—it’s thoroughly deserved.”

The match drew notable attendance from Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, APC chieftain Ambassador Yayaha Seriki, and Executive Chairman of the Kwara Sports Commission, Coach Bola Magaji, all of whom celebrated the triumph.

In a morale-boosting gesture, Ambassador Seriki announced a ₦5 million reward for the squad to acknowledge their efforts.

The victory lifts Kwara United to 10th place on the NPFL table with 39 points from 28 matches. Their next challenge is an away clash against Rangers in Enugu next weekend.

Speaking with sports journalists after the match, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed confidence in the team’s potential to secure a continental ticket.

“The fans’ support is overwhelming,” said an elated AbdulRazaq, who recently renamed the stadium after late Super Eagles legend Rashidi Yekini.

“It was a good game despite the fasting. We move forward to maintain top performance so that we can go continental. If you recall, we competed at the continental level a few years back,” he added.

Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa also praised the ongoing renovation of sports infrastructure at the George Innih Stadium, commending AbdulRazaq for his efforts.