Ahmed Musa’s Dazzling Display Earns Him Man of the Match as Kano Pillars Edge Akwa United
Nigeria’s Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, delivered a mesmerizing performance on Wednesday, earning him the Man of the Match award in Matchday 26 of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League season. His brilliance was instrumental in the Sai Masu Gida’s hard-fought 1-0 victory over Akwa United at the Sani Abacha Stadium.
Club legend, Rabiu Ali netted the decisive goal in the 84th minute, coolly converting a penalty after an Akwa United defender committed a foul inside the 18-yard box. The Pillars legend showcased his experience, sending Akwa United’s goalkeeper, Jean Efala, the wrong way to secure all three points for the home side.
Musa, Nigeria’s all-time leading FIFA World Cup goal scorer, played beyond expectations, dictating the tempo of the game with his skill, vision, and leadership. His overall impact was undeniable, earning him the Man of the Match award through a majority vote by members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State chapter, who covered the match.
The former Leicester City and CSKA Moscow star was a nightmare for the visitors, dazzling from the first whistle to the final moment. His influence in Kano Pillars FC’s campaign has been remarkable, despite rejoining the club weeks after the season had begun and missing six matches due to injury. Yet, Musa has still managed to score six goals and has been directly involved in more than half of the club’s total goals this season.
In his post-match interview, Musa reiterated his determination to lead the team to league glory, expressing confidence that Kano darlings will secure another victory in their upcoming clash against reigning champions Rangers International. He also praised the Sai Masu Gida faithful for their unwavering support, acknowledging that their presence in large numbers gives the team an extra edge.
According to the Media and Communications Directorate, Kano Pillars FC, the win extends Kano Pillars FC’s unbeaten run to four matches and they will be eager to stretch it to five when they host Rangers at the weekend.
The victory also sees the four-time NPFL champions climb to 6th place on the log with 39 points from 26 matches.
