Kano Pillars' weekend victory over Doma United has forced the Savannah Tigers into some soul-searching, with their head coach Deji Ayeni admitting the defeat was a wake-up call his side needed.
The Pillars ended Doma United's unbeaten run with a 2-0 win at the weekend, a result that has clearly rattled the Nasarawa-based side ahead of their midweek trip to face Plateau United on Wednesday. For Kano Pillars fans, the manner in which the result has shaken up a previously in-form opponent only adds to the satisfaction of the victory.
Ayeni, speaking to Completesports.com, did not shy away from the defeat but insisted his players must move on quickly. "If you watch very well, football is very dynamic; sometimes you lose matches and sometimes you win. But the action after a defeat is what matters most to us right now. The Kano Pillars match has come and gone, and we cannot reverse it. It serves as a wake-up call to remind us that there are no permanent champions, and it exposes areas we need to refine," he said.
The Doma United coach revealed his technical team has spent the days since the loss working on mental sharpness, tactical discipline, and a more aggressive approach in the final third as they prepare to host Plateau United. "We need to go back and prepare mentally, psychologically, emotionally, and physically to make sure we bounce back immediately. Our target is the three maximum points. The best form of attack is to defend, and the best form of defense is to attack. We are going to attack to get our goals while remaining cautious, keeping our defense compact and resolute," Ayeni said.
For Kano Pillars, the win over Doma United continues a solid start to the season that has also included a 3-2 home victory over Niger Tornadoes and a 2-2 draw away at Kwara United, giving the club plenty of belief heading into the coming weeks.
Attention for the Sai Masu Gida now turns to Matchday 5, where they travel to face Inter Lagos FC on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, looking to keep their positive momentum going on the road.