In-form Ahmed Musa salvaged a crucial point for Kano Pillars in their return to the Sani Abacha Stadium as they held Emmanuel Amuneke-led Heartland FC to an exciting 2-2 draw in their Matchday 12 encounter.
This marked Pillars’ first home game of the season, having played their earlier fixtures in Katsina after the NPFL board deemed their stadium unfit for league matches.
The first half was a tightly contested affair, but the game sprang to life in the second half. Heartland struck first, with Suraju Lawal scoring the opener, the first of his brace in the 51st minute, silencing the boisterous home supporters.
Pillars’ legendary captain Rabiu Ali brought the home side level in the 57th minute with a sublime free-kick, sending the over 25,000 fans into rapturous celebration. However, Heartland regained the lead just two minutes later, with Lawal completing his brace. Not to be outdone, Ahmed Musa once again came to Pillars’ rescue, scoring a brilliant equalizer in the 75th minute—his fifth goal of the season.
Kano Pillars threw everything forward in search of a winner, but Heartland’s defense held firm, ensuring they returned to Owerri with a hard-earned point. Musa’s exceptional performance throughout the match proved to be a constant menace for the Heartland backline.
Despite the thrilling encounter, Pillars will rue their missed opportunities, particularly their inability to capitalize on a series of late corner kicks. They now turn their focus to their next match, an away trip to Makurdi to face Lobi Stars, where they’ll aim to return to winning ways.
