Kano Pillars came from a comfortable position to see out a 3-2 victory against Niger Tornadoes in their Matchday 2 EuroMatch NPFL fixture at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday, picking up three valuable points in front of the home crowd.
Pillars made a strong start to the match, with Ubong Friday and Fabian Nworie both scoring in the first half to put the team 2-0 ahead at the break. Nworie then added a third just nine minutes after half-time to seemingly put the game beyond Tornadoes' reach.
But the visitors refused to roll over. Godfrey Joseph and Wasiu Jimoh pulled goals back for Niger Tornadoes to set up a tense finish, and they pushed hard for an equaliser in the closing minutes. Pillars, to their credit, kept their shape and defended the lead to the final whistle.
It is a result that will please the supporters, even if the manner of the finish was nervy. The team showed character to hold on, and that resilience will matter as the season progresses.
Elsewhere on Matchday 2, Plateau United got their first win of the season, beating Kwara United 1-0 at the New Jos Stadium. Alex Aghahowa scored the only goal in the 29th minute. Nasarawa United also won by a single goal, with Sam Pam's 55th-minute strike enough to defeat Bendel Insurance in Lafia. Kun Khalifat FC and Barau FC shared the points after a goalless draw at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri.
Full Matchday 2 Results: Kano Pillars 3-2 Niger Tornadoes Plateau United 1-0 Kwara United Nasarawa United 1-0 Bendel Insurance Kun Khalifat 0-0 Barau FC