Muhammed Rabiu Zulkifilu announced himself in emphatic fashion as the first hat-trick scorer of the 2026/27 EuroMatch NPFL season, inspiring newly promoted Ranchers Bees to a commanding 4-0 victory over Abia Warriors in Katsina.
Sports247 reports that the Kaduna-based side produced a scintillating attacking display to secure their first victory of the new NPFL campaign, with Zulkifilu taking centre stage by finding the net three times in an impressive individual performance.
Zulkifilu opened his account in the 41st minute, giving Ranchers Bees the breakthrough they needed before striking again just before half-time.
The forward completed his hat-trick in the 52nd minute, sealing a memorable afternoon and making history as the first player to score three goals in a single game during the 2026/27 NPFL campaign.
His goals provided the foundation for what became a comprehensive victory for the newly promoted outfit, who showed little sign of being overwhelmed by the demands of top-flight football.
Jamilu Yusuf also got his name on the scoresheet, adding Ranchers Bees’ fourth goal as the home side completed a convincing 4-0 triumph.
The result represents a major boost for Ranchers Bees, who were looking to record their first win since earning promotion to the NPFL. Their performance will provide plenty of encouragement as they continue their first season among Nigeria’s top-flight clubs.
For Zulkifilu, however, the afternoon belonged to him. Three goals in one match not only secured the maximum points for Ranchers Bees but also placed his name at the top of the early-season scoring headlines.
The result leaves Abia Warriors still searching for their first victory of the 2026/27 NPFL season. The Umuahia-based side began their campaign with a draw against Kun Khalifat and were unable to build on that opening result at home.
Ranchers Bees, meanwhile, will hope the emphatic victory serves as a springboard for a successful debut season in the NPFL.
With Zulkifilu already finding his scoring boots, the Kaduna club will be hoping their attacking momentum continues as the season progresses.
Four goals, three from Zulkifilu and a statement victory — Ranchers Bees have made their intentions clear.
