2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 28: Kano Pillars Seek Survival Boost Against Shooting Stars in Ibadan

Posted : 01 March 2026

The stage is set at the iconic Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan as Shooting Stars SC welcome northern heavyweights Kano Pillars FC in a high-stakes 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 28 showdown.

While history paints this fixture as a clash of giants, Sunday’s encounter carries deeper significance, particularly for the visitors battling to steer clear of relegation.

Shooting Stars: Protecting Pride at Home

The Oluyole Warriors, five-time Nigerian champions (1976, 1980, 1983, 1995, 1998), currently sit 9th on the NPFL table with 38 points. Their recent form has been mixed, with two wins and three defeats in their last five outings, but playing at Adamasingba often provides them with the spark they need.

Backed by their passionate Ibadan faithful, Shooting Stars will aim to reassert dominance and climb further up the standings as the season approaches its decisive phase.

Kano Pillars: Survival Instinct Kicks In

For Kano Pillars, this fixture could prove pivotal. The Sai Masu Gida are 16th on the log and remain within touching distance of the drop zone. However, a recent resurgence — three wins, one draw, and just one defeat in their last five matches — has reignited belief within the squad.

Under the watchful eye of technical adviser Mohammed Babaganaru, the team intensified preparations at the Sani Abacha Stadium, focusing on tactical drills and sharpness in front of goal. Their renewed fighting spirit was evident in their previous outing, where they delivered a composed performance against Katsina United, boosting morale in the camp.

Man to Watch: Luis Dadong

One of the standout figures in Pillars’ revival has been mid-season signing Luis Dadong. Since arriving from Wikki Tourists FC, the forward has injected much-needed firepower into the Kano attack.

His clinical finishing and relentless work rate have transformed Pillars’ offensive threat, making him a key figure as they look to upset their hosts in Ibadan.

What to Expect

A tactical battle between two experienced sides
Intensity fueled by history and league pressure
A desperate Pillars side seeking crucial points
Shooting Stars determined to make home advantage count

Though both clubs boast illustrious pasts — Shooting Stars with five league titles and Kano Pillars with four (2007–08, 2012, 2013, 2014) — Sunday’s contest is less about legacy and more about immediate ambition.

Will the Oluyole Warriors consolidate their top-half standing, or can Sai Masu Gida pull off a statement result on the road? All eyes turn to Ibadan for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in this enduring rivalry.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 28: Kano Pillars Seek Survival Boost Against Shooting Stars in Ibadan

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