2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 9 Review: El-Kanemi Warriors Outclass Wikki Tourists

Posted : 20 October 2025

El-Kanemi Warriors earned a hard-fought 2–1 home victory over Wikki Tourists in Maiduguri, with early goals from Emmanuel Jonas and Samaila Bello.

It was a spirited encounter in Maiduguri as Wikki Tourists FC fell 2–1 to El-Kanemi Warriors in an intense 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 9 clash.

Despite dominating much of the game, the Bauchi side were undone by two early goals that set the tone for the hosts.

El-Kanemi Warriors took the lead as early as the 9th minute through Emmanuel Jonas, who capitalized on a loose ball inside the box to put his team ahead.

The Warriors doubled their advantage in the 36th minute when Samaila Bello fired home from close range after a quick counter-attack.

The Tourists, however, refused to give up. Their persistent pressure paid off just before halftime when Abdullahi Usman (Pepe) struck in the 45th minute from an assist by Jonathan Mairiga, reducing the deficit and reigniting hopes of a comeback.

The second half saw Wikki Tourists dominate possession, stringing passes beautifully and creating several scoring chances, but the equalizer proved elusive. El-Kanemi held firm defensively to secure all three points.

Speaking after the match, Coach Abdu Maikaba of Wikki Tourists expressed disappointment over the result, noting that his players gave their all but luck was not on their side.

“We played very well and deserved more from this game. I commend my players for their fighting spirit and determination. It’s unfortunate we couldn’t get at least a point,” said Maikaba.

The experienced tactician also praised the overall standard of officiating in the ongoing NPFL season, acknowledging, however, that a few matches had exceptions. He commended the NPFL board for its swift response in addressing officiating concerns.

Team captain Mohammed Guda attributed the loss to ill luck but remained optimistic about the team’s resurgence.

“We gave everything, but football can be unpredictable. We just need to stay focused and keep working hard. I appeal to our fans to remain calm, keep supporting and praying for us — better results will come, Insha Allah,” Guda assured.

With the result, Wikki Tourists will now turn their attention to Matchday 10, where they host Shooting Stars (3SC) in Bauchi — a crucial fixture as they aim to return to winning ways in front of their home supporters.

2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 9 Review: El-Kanemi Warriors Outclass Wikki Tourists

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