Ahmed Musa’s late brilliance stun Rivers United and shake NPFL title race
Ahmed Musa delivered a decisive late impact as Rivers United saw their push for the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title suffer a painful setback.
The experienced forward was the difference-maker in a tightly contested match that swung late in dramatic fashion, leaving Rivers United frustrated after leading late on.
Ahmed Musa inspires Pillars as Rivers United lose control of NPFL title race
The encounter at the Sani Abacha Stadium started evenly, with both sides showing caution in the opening half.
Rivers United struggled to break through a disciplined Kano Pillars defence, while Ahmed Musa remained a constant threat on the counter.
After the break, Rivers United thought they had taken the lead through Samson Obi, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Moments like that proved costly in a match that demanded sharp finishing.
As the game progressed, the visitors continued to push but were punished late on. Kano Pillars capitalised on a set-piece situation, with Abdullahi Musa finishing off a well-worked move that began from an Ahmed Musa assist.
Musa delivers late twist as Rivers United collapse under pressure
The Port Harcourt outfit responded strongly and found an equaliser in the 89th minute when a powerful header from a corner restored hope for Finidi George’s side. At that point, they looked set to rescue a valuable away point in the NPFL title race.
However, the game turned again in stoppage time. Ahmed Musa rose highest to meet a cross from Fahad Usman, guiding a header beyond the goalkeeper to complete a dramatic finish and seal all three points for Kano Pillars.
The result adds to Rivers United’s growing away struggles, with the team now recording a long run of defeats on the road.
It also shifts momentum in the NPFL title race, as Enugu Rangers move ahead at the top of the table after their own victory over Enyimba.
For Kano Pillars, the win is a major boost in their fight for survival, while Rivers United are left to reflect on missed chances and late defensive lapses.
Musa once again proved his value in key moments, while Rivers United paid the price for not closing out the match. With only a three games left, the NPFL title race remains unpredictable.
