2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 27: Dadong’s resurgence inspires Kano Pillars’ emphatic derby win

Posted : 23 February 2026

There is renewed belief in the camp of Kano Pillars FC after a commanding 3-0 triumph over El-Kanemi Warriors in the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League Match Day 27 fixture.

Under the floodlights at the iconic Sani Abacha Stadium, Sai Masu Gida delivered one of their most complete performances of the season — a result that not only settled the northern derby but also pushed them out of the relegation zone with 32 points from 27 matches.

Fast start sets the tone

The Landlords wasted no time asserting dominance. Captain Rabiu Ali opened the scoring in the 13th minute, rifling a fierce strike into the roof of the net after reacting quickest to a poorly cleared corner. It was his seventh goal of the campaign — yet another reminder of his enduring influence.

The early breakthrough injected confidence into the home side, who pressed with purpose and controlled the tempo against a stunned El-Kanemi side.

Dadong’s redemption story continues

If there is a defining storyline in Kano’s recent revival, it is the resurgence of Luis Dadong.

Two minutes before halftime, Dadong rose highest to power home a header from Izuchukwu Christian’s precise delivery, doubling Pillars’ advantage and sending the home supporters into celebration mode.

The forward, who was released mid-season by Wikki Tourists, has rediscovered his sharpness since arriving in Kano in January. Match Days 25, 26, and now 27 have all seen him find the net — three goals in three consecutive appearances, home and away.

For a side battling relegation pressure just weeks ago, Dadong’s timely scoring run has proven transformational. He is peaking exactly when Pillars need him most.

Okorie seals the statement

Seven minutes after the restart, Chidozie Okorie put the contest beyond doubt with a clinical finish in the 52nd minute. The third goal reflected Pillars’ renewed attacking confidence and composure in front of goal.

From that point on, the hosts managed proceedings professionally, limiting El-Kanemi’s attacking threats while maintaining their structure and intensity.

A turning point in the season

Beyond the scoreline, this was a performance filled with intent, belief, and unity.

Three straight impactful displays from Dadong, leadership from Rabiu Ali, and collective discipline across the pitch suggest that Kano Pillars may have turned a crucial corner in their campaign.

For El-Kanemi Warriors, however, the defeat exposes defensive frailties and a lack of cutting edge in key moments.

As the relegation battle tightens, Match Day 27 may well be remembered as the night Sai Masu Gida reclaimed their fighting spirit — and possibly, their season.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 27: Dadong’s resurgence inspires Kano Pillars’ emphatic derby win

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