Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George beaten in Kano State
Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George and his Rivers United suffered major setback in the NPFL after a heartbreaking defeat on the road against Kano Pillars.
Former Super Eagles coach Finidi George and his Rivers United side faced a major blow in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) title chase after a 2-0 defeat away to Kano Pillars in a crucial Week 35 fixture.
Rivers United needed at least a draw at the Sani Abacha Stadium to keep their slim hopes alive in the title race against league leaders Remo Stars.
However, Kano Pillars, inspired by Nigeria international and AFCON 2013 winner Ahmed Musa and Rabiu Ali, turned the game around in the second half.
After a goalless first half, Ahmed Musa broke the deadlock in the 63rd minute, capitalising on an assist from Zulkifilu Muhammad. Rabiu Ali then sealed the victory by converting a penalty, marking his 12th goal of the season.
The defeat leaves Rivers United seven points behind Remo Stars, who can clinch their first-ever NPFL title with a win against Niger Tornadoes in their next match.
With only three games remaining, Finidi George’s side now faces an uphill battle to hold on to their championship aspirations.
Despite the setback, Finidi could remain optimistic about his team’s resolve, but the loss at Kano Pillars has undoubtedly dented Rivers United’s momentum in the closing stages of the season.