2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 28 Review: El-Kanemi Warriors FC Overpower Abia Warriors FC in Maiduguri

Posted : 02 March 2026

The fortress in Maiduguri stood tall once again as El-Kanemi Warriors FC delivered a commanding 2–0 victory over Abia Warriors FC in a Match Day 28 clash of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League season.

It was a night of emotion, intensity, and quality football at the El-Kanemi Warriors Sports Complex.

Emotional Start, Electric Finish

Before kickoff, the home side paid heartfelt tribute to their late chairman, Malam Ibrahim Mainu Mustapha, with a solemn minute of silence — a gesture that visibly united players and supporters alike.

The 4:00 pm kickoff initially saw a sparse crowd, largely influenced by Ramadan fasting. But as the game progressed, the stands gradually filled, transforming the arena into a cauldron of noise and belief.

El-Kanemi began brightly, asserting early control while Abia Warriors cautiously settled into rhythm.

The breakthrough arrived in the 31st minute when Daddy Abdulrahman kept his composure from the penalty spot, sending goalkeeper Isiaku Ali the wrong way for his eighth goal of the season.

The goal tilted momentum firmly in favor of the hosts, who protected their 1–0 advantage until halftime after four minutes of added time.

The second half saw Abia Warriors push aggressively for an equalizer, reminding everyone why they are considered one of the league’s continental contenders. However, El-Kanemi’s discipline and structure proved unbreakable.

The midfield duo of Zayad Musa and ThankGod dictated the tempo superbly, cutting passing lanes and frustrating the visitors at every turn. Behind them, a compact defensive unit ensured goalkeeper Isiaku Ali was largely untested from clear-cut opportunities.

Just when the visitors were throwing numbers forward, El-Kanemi delivered the final blow.

In the 88th minute, Bashir Musa Mai Aljanna connected sweetly with a volley from the far post. With the Abia goalkeeper caught off his line, the ball soared beautifully into the net — a strike many supporters instantly hailed as one of the finest goals witnessed this season.

Three minutes of stoppage time later, the referee’s final whistle confirmed a famous 2–0 triumph.

Head coach Kabiru Dogo could hardly hide his satisfaction after the game.

“I want to thank Allah for this victory. It is not easy to play during Ramadan, especially against a high-profile continental team like Abia Warriors.

“I commend my boys for a job well done and also thank our fans for their unalloyed support throughout the match.”

Considering that ten members of his starting eleven were fasting, the performance spoke volumes about the team’s resilience and mentality.

The victory lifts El-Kanemi Warriors to sixth position on the log with 41 points, tightening their grip on the race for continental qualification.

Up next, they face a stern test away to Rivers United FC in a rescheduled fixture before traveling to confront Wikki Tourists FC. They will then return home to face Katsina United FC.

If this performance is anything to go by, Maiduguri may yet witness something special before the season draws to a close.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 28 Review: El-Kanemi Warriors FC Overpower Abia Warriors FC in Maiduguri

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