Head coach of Kano Pillars, Babaganaru Mohammed, has praised his players’ resilience and unwavering belief following their dramatic 2–1 victory over league leaders Rivers United in a Matchday 35 clash of the Nigeria Premier Football League.
The encounter at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano lived up to expectations, with former Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa proving decisive—registering an assist before netting a late winner to seal all three points for the hosts.
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Speaking after the game, Babaganaru admitted the clash was far from easy, given the quality and ambition of the visitors.
“Alhamdulillah for the maximum three points. But to be sincere, it was a very difficult match.
They are the league leaders, very ambitious, and came out strongly because they want to win the league,” he said.
The coach reserved special praise for his players’ mentality, highlighting their refusal to give up even after conceding a late equaliser.
“I want to impress my players for showing very good character—a never-give-up attitude. After we scored, they equalised, but we kept pushing. The boys still believed, and that made the difference.”
Babaganaru also pointed to the unpredictable nature of football, noting how persistence can turn games around in crucial moments.
“Sometimes you may not play well for 85 minutes, but in the last five minutes you get a positive result. That’s what happened today.”
He further revealed that he resisted calls from fans to substitute Ahmed Musa, and decision that ultimately proved decisive.
“Some people were calling for Musa to be taken off, but I trusted my judgment. At the end of the day, he made the assist and scored the winning goal. You don’t always follow the crowd—you believe in what you’re doing.”
Looking ahead, Babaganaru emphasized the importance of maintaining focus as the season nears its conclusion, while also calling for patience and continued support from fans.
“Every match is important, and we approach each one with a positive mindset. The message to our fans is to keep believing in us and be patient. Support us till the final whistle.”
The result boosts Kano Pillars’ survival hopes, while Rivers United remain firmly in the title race despite the setback.
