2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 30: Umar's Free-Kick Brace Powers Barau FC Past Abia Warriors in Kano

Posted : 16 March 2026

Barau FC secured an important victory over Abia Warriors in their 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 30 encounter in Kano, with attacking midfielder Muhammad Umar delivering a decisive performance.

Umar scored both goals for Barau FC, converting two free kicks to guide his side to all three points and extend their positive run in the league.

His display earned him the Player of the Match award, marking the fourth time this season he has received the honour.

The feat highlights Umar's growing influence in the NPFL campaign, as consistently winning the award multiple times in a single season remains uncommon in the competition.

Both goals came from set pieces, underlining the midfielder's technical ability and composure in dead-ball situations.

His brace ultimately proved the difference in the match and ensured Barau FC maintained their winning momentum.

Despite attempts by Abia Warriors to reduce the deficit in the second half, the Barau FC defence remained resolute and maintained the two-goal lead until the final whistle.

Speaking in a post-match interview, Barau FC coach Eugene Agagbe commended his players for their impressive performance.

He attributed the victory to the determination and discipline displayed by the team.

"We thank God Almighty for the victory again today. Our objective is always to win, and we thank God for what He has done for us today," he said.

Agagbe particularly commended the team's strong start to the match, noting that the early goals were crucial to securing the win.

"I want to thank my players. They did very well in the first twenty minutes. We were two goals up, and they showed the character and determination to carry the day.

"I give thanks to my players for a good performance today," he said.

The coach said his initial objective after taking charge of the club was to move the team away from its previous position on the league table.

"You will remember that when I took over the team, my objective was to move the team away from the position we were in. By all standards, that position did not reflect where we belong.

"We have achieved that objective, and for anything else that comes our way, we give glory to God Almighty," he said.

Agagbe added that the team would continue to work hard to finish the season strongly and possibly secure a continental competition slot.

"We will continue to fight and work hard so that at the end of the season we finish comfortably on the table. If we eventually qualify for continental competition, we will praise God," he said.

Looking ahead, the coach said the team would focus on its next match against Wikki Tourists, describing the fixture as another tough encounter.

"Our next match is against Wikki Tourists in Bauchi. They are also doing well, but we will give them a good fight," he said.

Following the game, Umar was presented with the Player of the Match award by the Chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kano State Chapter, Zaharaddini Saleh, alongside a special guest.

The young midfielder's continued performances have drawn attention, with many observers noting his importance to Barau FC's progress this season.

Barau FC now occupies eighth position on the table with 40 points from 30 matches.

Muhammad Umar's stunning free-kick brace was the standout moment of Barau FC's Match Day 30 victory over Abia Warriors, cementing his status as one of the NPFL's most influential performers this season.

Coach Agagbe's side continues to climb the table, now sitting eighth with 40 points and a growing ambition of securing continental football.

With a tough test against Wikki Tourists next on the agenda, Barau FC will be looking to Umar and the collective to keep the momentum going.

2025/2026 NPFL Match Day 30: Umar's Free-Kick Brace Powers Barau FC Past Abia Warriors in Kano

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