Kano Pillars may have stumbled on opening day against Abia Warriors but Evans Ogenyi insists his side showed enough firepower and fighting spirit to mark them out as contenders in the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League season.
In a tension-soaked clash at the Umuahia Township Stadium, Paul Samson’s 35th-minute strike separated Abia Warriors and the Pride of Kano.
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The goal came after a defensive mix-up, but from then on, Pillars dominated possession, pressed relentlessly, and forced the hosts to defend deep. Their persistence appeared to have paid off in stoppage time when they bundled home a dramatic equaliser, only for the referee’s flag to cut short the celebrations with a controversial offside call.
It ended 1-0 to the hosts, but Ogenyi remained upbeat after the final whistle.
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Ogenyi: “The team is gelling well”
Speaking to journalists after the game, the Technical Adviser praised his players’ mentality despite the disappointment:
“The team is gelling well, and you must bear in mind that there is no perfect team anywhere in the world. We’ve seen both positives and negatives from today’s game, and we will go back, prepare, and approach the next match with even greater determination.”
For Ogenyi, who only returned to the dugout with Sai Masu Gida this season, the performance showed encouraging signs of his football identity taking shape.
“My philosophy has always been about seriousness, resilience, and tactical discipline. I saw glimpses of that today, and with time, it will only get stronger.”
A Call to the Media: “Be more Analytical”
Beyond the pitch, Ogenyi used his post-match presser to challenge Nigerian football journalists to raise the bar in their coverage:
“I want you all to be more analytical in your reportage of the game. That’s how we can collectively contribute to the development of football in this country.”
His appeal underscored his belief that football growth in Nigeria requires not just strong coaching and playing standards, but also sharper, more constructive media analysis that mirrors global practice.
READ ALSO: NPFL: How we overcame Shooting Stars in Ibadan-Bayelsa United Coach Monday Odigie
Next Stop: Fortress Kano
Kano Pillars, four-time NPFL champions, now shift focus to their next assignment; a fiery home clash against Wikki Tourists at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata. Backed by their passionate fans, Ogenyi’s men will be eager to bounce back and prove that their opening day defeat in Umuahia was only a temporary setback.
For Sai Masu Gida, the mission is clear: reclaim their aura, compete for the title, and restore their status as one of the NPFL’s great institutions.
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