Kano State’s two football representatives, Kano Pillars FC and Barau FC, have suffered early elimination from the 2025 President Federation Cup after falling in the Round of 64.
Kano Pillars’ journey ended on Tuesday after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Enugu Rangers International at the Bwari Township Stadium. Chiedozie Okorie’s 65th-minute goal sealed the victory for the Enugu-based side in a highly competitive match between two of Nigeria’s most accomplished clubs.
Meanwhile, Barau FC also exited the competition after a 2-1 loss to Rivers United at the Area 3 Pitch in Abuja on Wednesday. Chijioke Mbaoma put Rivers United ahead in the 12th minute, with Philip Odubia doubling the lead in the 26th minute. Barau FC’s George Enyia pulled one back in the 36th minute, but his side failed to find an equalizer.
The match marked the first-ever competitive meeting between Barau FC and Rivers United, with the Nigerian National League (NNL) side putting up a commendable fight against their NPFL opponents.
Kano Pillars, a four-time Federation Cup winner, last lifted the trophy in 2019 after defeating Niger Tornadoes on penalties. However, the Sai Masu Gida have struggled to replicate that success in recent years.
Barau FC, on the other hand, made their debut in the competition this year following their promotion and strong performance in the NNL season. Despite their exit, they have shown promise for the future.
The early elimination of both Kano clubs raises concerns about the preparedness of teams from the state in national and continental competitions.
Round of 32 Fixtures
The next round of the President Federation Cup will take place next month, with exciting fixtures including:
Heartland FC vs Rangers Int’l
Warri Wolves vs Shooting Stars
Enyimba FC vs El-Kanemi Warriors
Bayelsa United vs FC Basira
Lobi Stars vs Solution FC
Sunshine Stars vs Plateau United
Beyond Limits vs Rivers United
Danburan FC vs Inter Lagos
Kwara United vs Gombe United
Ikorodu City vs Crown FC
Wikki Tourists vs Rovers FC
Osun United vs E World FC
Nasarawa United vs Ijele FC/Lautau United
Bendel Insurance vs Adamawa United
Katsina United vs Yobe Desert Stars/Abakaliki F
With Kano’s two teams out of contention, attention now shifts to how other clubs will fare as the competition progresses.
