2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 9 Review: Kwara United End Winless Run with Lone-Goal Victory Over Katsina United

Posted : 20 October 2025

Kwara United finally returned to winning ways as Ibrahim Yahaya’s late long-range strike secured a 1–0 victory over Katsina United in their NPFL Matchday 9.

After a run of successive defeats, Kwara United Football Club on Sunday earned their first win of the season with a narrow 1–0 victory over visiting Katsina United FC in the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 9 fixture played at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.

Ibrahim Yahaya was the hero of the day, firing a long-range screamer in the 82nd minute to break the deadlock and secure maximum points for the Harmony Boys.

The encounter was tense from the start, with both sides creating scoring opportunities in the first half. Johnmark Aule’s powerful strike and Bright Babatunde’s header were denied by the Katsina United goalkeeper, while Kwara United’s shot-stopper, Nurudeen Badmus, made crucial saves to keep the visitors at bay.

After the restart, Kwara United came out stronger, dominating possession in search of a breakthrough. Tactical substitutions saw Isaa Gata and Ini Emmanuel replace Junior Aimufua and Gidado Toheeb, adding more attacking threat — a move that eventually paved the way for Yahaya’s decisive goal.

Later in the game, Akanni Akeem replaced Philip Ozor, while Seun Ogunribide came on for Kabir Mohammed, as Coach Ashifat Suleiman’s side sought to protect their narrow lead.

Katsina United pushed hard for an equalizer in the closing stages, but Kwara United’s defensive line stood resolute to seal all three points.

Speaking after the match, Coach Ashifat Suleiman described the encounter as “tough but rewarding,” crediting his players’ resilience and winning mentality.

“It was a difficult match, but the boys showed great determination. This victory means a lot to us, and we’ll keep pushing. Our target this season is to fight for the league title. We won the FA Cup last season — this year, our focus is the league,” Suleiman said.

Ibrahim Yahaya was deservedly named the Cyteck Man of the Match for his outstanding performance and decisive goal.

With this result, Kwara United now have 12 points from nine matches, sitting 10th on the NPFL log. The Harmony Boys will next face Rangers International on Sunday in Enugu, as they aim to build on their new momentum.

2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 9 Review: Kwara United End Winless Run with Lone-Goal Victory Over Katsina United

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