Kun Khalifat FC stun Kano Pillars in crucial relegation battle at Dan Anyiam Stadium

Posted : 05 May 2026

Kun Khalifat FC took a significant step toward Nigeria Premier Football League survival with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Kano Pillars. The matchday 36 encounter took place at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri on Sunday, May 3. Before the game, head coach Obinna Uzoho had boldly vowed to "sink" the four-time league champions. His team delivered on that promise by utilizing their home advantage to secure all three points.

The victory moved Kun Khalifat to 17th position on the league table with 43 points from 36 matches. While they remain in the relegation zone, they are now level on points with 18th-placed Remo Stars. Kano Pillars dropped to 14th place following the defeat, remaining on 45 points. The result has intensified the battle at the bottom of the standings with only two rounds of matches left to play.

Uzoho had expressed deep respect for the history of "Sai Masu Gida" but insisted his younger squad possessed superior hunger. He described the Owerri stadium as a fortress and emphasized tactical discipline over past reputations. The coach’s strategy focused on quick transitions and defensive organization to frustrate the experienced visitors. This approach allowed the hosts to extend their unbeaten run to four consecutive league games.

Kano Pillars, led by veteran manager Mohammed Babaganaru, struggled to match the intensity of the home side throughout the afternoon. Despite their legacy and deeper squad depth, the "Old Dogs" of the NPFL could not overcome the desperation of a team fighting for its life. The loss leaves Pillars precariously close to the danger zone, as only two points now separate them from Kun Khalifat.

The atmosphere in Owerri was electric as fans witnessed their team challenge one of the biggest names in Nigerian football. Uzoho credited the victory to the mental strength of his players and their commitment to his grassroots-focused philosophy. He maintained that the squad has everything to lose, which makes them a dangerous opponent for anyone in the final weeks.

Kun Khalifat will now look to carry this momentum into their final two fixtures of the 2025/2026 season. The relegation race remains tight, with multiple teams separated by just one or two points. If the "Harmony Boys" can maintain their current form, they may complete an unlikely escape from the drop. For now, the victory over Pillars serves as a major statement of intent.

Kun Khalifat FC stun Kano Pillars in crucial relegation battle at Dan Anyiam Stadium

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