Kano Pillars forward Ahmed Musa has made clear he is under no illusions about how tough Sunday's final-day clash against Plateau United will be, describing it as a match where both sides have everything to fight for.
The game takes place at the New Jos Stadium, with Kano Pillars knowing that a point will be enough to secure their NPFL status for next season. Lose, and the Sai Masu Gida could face the drop.
Musa, who has been influential for Pillars this season — including a late winner against Rivers United in April and a goal in the 2-0 home victory over Enyimba — acknowledged the unique emotional weight this fixture carries for him personally.
"Jos is my home, the game is going to be very difficult because both teams need a point to stay in the league," he told Inside Plateau Sports.
The striker also made no secret of where his heart lies when it comes to the outcome. "By God's grace both teams will remain in the league as both Kano and Plateau is my home so let see how the game goes at the end of the duration," he said.
One added factor is that the match will be played behind closed doors, without supporters present. Musa called on fans to do their part from a distance. "It is sad that the game will be played without fans so I urge the fans to pray for us so as for both teams to remain in the league," he said.
For Pillars supporters, the message is straightforward — a draw keeps the club up. After a season of mixed away form, including recent defeats on the road to Ikorodu City and Kun Khalifat, the focus now is entirely on getting the result that matters most.