Ahmed Musa Inpires Kano Pillars to Final as Wikki Tourists Crash Out of Gusau Ahlan Preseason Tournament

By Nasiru Ibrahim

Kano Pillars have booked their place in the final of the Gusau Ahlan Preseason Tournament after a spirited 2–0 victory over Wikki Tourists in a balanced and high-intensity clash at the Lafia Township Stadium.

Jude Okerie opened the scoring in the 19th minute, finishing clinically to give Pillars the early advantage. From there, it was a tight, evenly contested battle, with both sides pressing high and creating moments of danger.

Wikki, determined to keep their tournament hopes alive, made early second-half substitutions, introducing Nickson Ironsi, Kabiru Mohammed, and Naziru Auwalu for Sadiq Abdullahi, John Taiwo, and Saifullahi Yusuf. Later, Ahmed Lamido and Imamu Bala joined the fray, replacing Mamuda Aliyu and Abdullahi Usman.

Despite their attacking intent, Wikki could not find a breakthrough against a disciplined Pillars backline. The decisive moment came deep into stoppage time when Kano Pillars were awarded a penalty. Super Eagles captain and club General Manager Ahmed Musa stepped up and coolly converted in the 90+2 minute to seal the win.

While the loss means Wikki Tourists bow out of the tournament, the team can take positives from their campaign. They used the preseason to prepare for next season, identify grey areas, and fine-tune tactics ahead of the new campaign.

The victory sends Kano Pillars into the final, where they will aim to cap off their strong showing with the preseason trophy.