2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 24 Preview: Rangers, Pillars Renew Fierce Rivalry at the Cathedral

Posted : 01 February 2026

One of the Nigeria Premier Football League’s most intense rivalries takes centre stage on Matchday 24 as Rangers International FC host Kano Pillars FC at the iconic Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu—famously known as the Cathedral.

While this fixture has historically been about pride and supremacy between two of Nigeria’s most decorated clubs, this season’s meeting carries very different motivations for both sides.

Rangers International have quietly rebuilt momentum after a shaky run earlier in the campaign and now find themselves comfortably in the NPFL’s top five. The Flying Antelopes are beginning to rediscover their rhythm, and a home clash against Pillars presents an opportunity to consolidate their position among the league’s frontrunners.

For Kano Pillars, however, the trip to Enugu is about something far more urgent: survival.

The Sai Masu Gida arrive at the Cathedral sitting 18th on the table with 25 points from 23 matches, deeply entrenched in the relegation battle. Their recent 1–0 victory over Katsina United at the Sani Abacha Stadium has injected renewed belief into the squad, but the task ahead in Enugu remains daunting.

Adding leadership and inspiration to Pillars’ fight is Ahmed Musa, who continues to play a dual role as both manager and key player. Musa’s decisive goal in the midweek victory further reinforced his influence in the team’s push to climb out of danger.

Speaking ahead of the clash, the Pillars talisman emphasised the team’s determination to fight until the end of the season.

“We have to keep fighting, and in every game we will go all out to get the points. At the end of the season, we will see where we are. By the grace of Allah, we will be out of this situation.”

He also acknowledged the importance of the club’s passionate supporters in their survival quest.

“The power behind Kano Pillars is the fans, and we are going to do our best to win and get out of relegation. The best gift we can give them is to keep winning.”

Historically, encounters between Rangers and Pillars are rarely short on drama, physical battles, and tactical discipline. With Rangers seeking to maintain their upward trajectory and Pillars desperate for points, Sunday’s contest promises to be fiercely contested.

For Rangers, it is a chance to assert dominance at home.
For Pillars, it is a must-win mission on hostile ground.

At the Cathedral, where history and pressure collide, only one side may leave satisfied.

2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 24 Preview: Rangers, Pillars Renew Fierce Rivalry at the Cathedral

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