Eko Hot Blog reports that Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL giants, Enyimba and Kano Pillars, are set to face off for the 24th time since 2010, in a high-profile 2023/24 match-day 28 game in Aba today (Wednesday).
With a total of 13 titles shared between them (nine for Enyimba and four for Pillars), matches between these two sides are always intense, fueled by their regional dominance and status as major forces in the NPFL.
In their 23 previous encounters, Enyimba emerged victorious in 10 matches, while Pillars secured 11 wins, including the first leg of this season. Additionally, two games ended in draws.
Coming into today’s encounter, both teams find themselves outside the continental qualification spots in the league standings (Enyimba in fourth place with 45 points and Pillars in sixth with 41 points).
The outcome of this match will significantly impact their aspirations, with only four points separating them.
“Pillars are known for high performance in the league, which usually earns us the first and second spots in the table. For this season the club is made up of young players willing to give their best to the team. We will do everything possible to reclaim our position in the league. We want to make sure we finish in the top three,” the 43-year-old said.
Pillars captain, Rabiu Ali, in an exclusive interview with PUNCH Sports Extra termed the fixture the biggest rivalry he has been involved in the NPFL and also stressed on their target of playing on the continent again, just after returning from the second tier.
“The biggest rivalry game I have played for Pillars was our match against Enyimba in 2006. The match was played at our home, Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, but was later taken to Lokoja because of pitch invasion from the home fans,” Ali told reporters.
On match-day 28 today, Lobi Stars, currently in second place, head to Lagos aiming to keep up their pursuit of the top spot against Sporting Lagos, who have won their last five home matches.
Kano Pillars players warming up before a match
Meanwhile, league leaders Enugu Rangers will host the rejuvenated Sunshine Stars at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.
At the bottom of the table, Akwa United will be determined to avoid relegation danger and stretch their unbeaten league run to four matches as they face struggling Doma United at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
In their last three matches, the Promise Keepers secured seven out of a possible nine points, notching wins against Bendel Insurance and Plateau United, along with a draw against Gombe United.
Bayelsa United and Heartland, both with one win each in their last five matches, find themselves locked in a battle at the bottom of the table, occupying the 18th and 19th positions respectively.
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