Abuja, March 21, 2025 – Kano Pillars and Barau FC, Kano State’s two representatives in the 2025 President Federation Cup, have suffered early exits after losing their Round of 64 matches.
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Pillars Fall to Rangers
Kano Pillars, a four-time Federation Cup winner, were eliminated on Tuesday after a 1-0 defeat to Enugu Rangers International at the Bwari Township Stadium.
A 65th-minute goal from Chiedozie Okorie proved decisive, as Rangers secured passage to the next round in a hard-fought battle between two of Nigeria’s most successful clubs.
Barau FC’s Brave Fight Ends in Defeat
Meanwhile, Barau FC bowed out after a 2-1 loss to Rivers United at the Area 3 Pitch, Abuja, on Wednesday.
Goals from Chijioke Mbaoma (12’) and Philip Odubia (26’) gave Rivers United a comfortable lead. George Enyia pulled one back for Barau FC in the 36th minute, but the NNL newcomers couldn’t find an equalizer against their NPFL opponents.
Despite the loss, Barau FC showed great promise in their Federation Cup debut, giving a strong performance against one of Nigeria’s top sides.
Concerns Over Kano Clubs’ National Competitiveness
Kano Pillars last won the Federation Cup in 2019, but their recent struggles highlight their declining form in national competitions.
For Barau FC, their early elimination signals the challenges faced by emerging clubs from the state in competing at the highest levels.
Round of 32 Fixtures
The next round of the President Federation Cup is set for next month, with exciting matchups 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, focus now shifts to how other clubs will fare as the competition progresses.