El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri’s captain, Zayyad Musa has recounted what he referred to as a feeling of ‘home away from home’ for his team in Katsina during their President Federation Cup semi-finals victory over Wikki Tourists of Bauchi.
Sports247 reports that the three-time Nigerian FA Cup winners romped to a 3-1 spanking of Wikki Tourist, who are also past holders of the trophy, and Musa has now admitted that huge support from Katsina fans helped his side scale the hurdle.
“We played as if we were in Maiduguri. The atmosphere was so electric, and the only sound you could hear was ‘El-Kanemi Warriors, El-Kanemi Warriors.’ We are truly delighted with what the people of Katsina did for us,” Musa asserted.
His message is contained in a press release from the Borno State government-owned club’s media unit, which noted that fellow-indigenes of their founder, Abdulmumini Aminu, trooped out to support The Warriors en mass.
The Maiduguri-based team’s media department added that cheers gained by their team from a large number of spectators in the stadium was a ‘remarkable gesture’ and ‘clear indication that Katsina is truly a home of hospitality.’
The message added in part, “We sincerely thank the good people of Katsina State for their overwhelming support during the semi-final match. What added glamour to the match was the incredible support from the people of Katsina State.
“On behalf of everyone at El-Kanemi Warriors FC and the entire people of Borno State, we would like to specifically express our gratitude to Colonel Abdulmumin Aminu (retired), the founder of our club, and the management and supporters of Katsina United FC.
“(We also thank) other well-meaning indigenes of Katsina State who showed love, care and solidarity. Your support, encouragement and sportsmanship will always be remembered and appreciated by the people of Borno State. Thank you, Katsina State, one love.”
Sports247 reports further that El-Kanemi, who last won the trophy in 2024, will now aim to defeat Ikorodu City of Lagos during this year’s final and book a ticket to represent Nigeria next season in the CAF Confederation Cup.
The Maiduguri-based team defeated Abia Warriors 2-0 at Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos on June 29, 2024 to secure their third title, as Nasiru Salihu scored a brace to win the match and end a 32-year title drought for the club.
Their other conquests of Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious football competition came in 1991, when they won their first title by beating Kano Pillars 3-2 and they retained the title in 1992 by defeating Stationery Stores of Lagos 1-0.
