2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 27 Preview: Relegation Pressure Mounts as Pillars, El-Kanemi Clash in High-Stakes Northern Derby

Posted : 22 February 2026

The fight to beat the drop takes centre stage in the northern region this weekend as Kano Pillars host El-Kanemi Warriors in a crucial 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League Match Day 27 showdown.

With both sides desperate for points, the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata, is expected to witness a tense and fiercely contested derby.

Pillars Banking on Home Comfort

Sai Masu Gida head into the fixture in 18th position with 29 points, fully aware that every remaining game is now a battle for survival. Their recent form offers cautious optimism — two wins, one draw, and a single defeat in their last four outings.

Goalkeeper Destiny Abuchi believes the team is gathering momentum at the right time.

“The away point against Kwara United was important for us. Now we’re back home and focused on securing maximum points,” he stated.

The return of veteran forward Ahmed Musa adds a major boost. The experienced attacker, who has scored three league goals this season, rejoined training after missing recent matches for family reasons. His presence brings leadership, composure, and attacking spark to a side that has struggled for consistency.

El-Kanemi Boosted by Otuyiga’s Comeback

For the Maiduguri-based visitors, the derby also comes with positive news. First-choice goalkeeper Hakeem Otuyiga has officially returned to training after months out due to injury.

His recovery strengthens the Warriors’ defensive setup at a crucial period of the campaign. Otuyiga’s resilience and commitment during rehabilitation have been widely praised, and his return restores confidence at the back.

El-Kanemi will look to frustrate the hosts and capitalise on any nerves that come with Pillars’ precarious league position.

Derby Pride Meets Survival Urgency

Beyond the points at stake, this fixture carries the emotional weight of a northern rivalry. Both teams understand what victory would mean not just in the standings, but for morale and regional bragging rights.

With returning stars on both sides and relegation pressure intensifying, Match Day 27 promises drama, grit, and high tension in Kano.

All eyes now turn to Sunday’s showdown, a contest that could significantly shape the survival race in the closing stretch of the season.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 27 Preview: Relegation Pressure Mounts as Pillars, El-Kanemi Clash in High-Stakes Northern Derby

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