Kano Pillars have been knocked out of the Kano State President Federation Cup at the semi-final stage, losing to Nigeria National League side Bichi First FC in a penalty shootout.
The match itself could not be separated after 90 minutes, finishing goalless. Bichi First FC then held their nerve from the spot to win 4-2 on penalties and end Pillars' hopes of lifting the trophy.
It is a painful exit, and the manner of it will sting — going out to a lower-division side after failing to score in regulation time. Supporters will remember that the club also made an early exit from last year's edition of the competition, falling 1-0 to Rangers at the Bwari Township Stadium in Abuja in the round of 64.
Back-to-back cup disappointments are difficult to accept, and the fans deserve better. On the bright side, the league remains the main priority, and with a home win over Rivers United on Matchday 35 — Abdullahi Musa and Ahmed Musa both on the scoresheet in a 2-1 victory — there is still something to fight for in the NPFL.
Attention now turns to the away trip to Kun Khalifat FC on 3 May for Matchday 36. A positive result there would help the squad move on quickly from this cup disappointment.