Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa secured his first title with Kano Pillars as the former Nigerian champions edged Barau FC 3-2 to claim the 2025 Kano State President Federation Cup, Footynaija.com reports.
While Musa’s influence at Pillars dominated the pre-match buildup, it was Hadi Olanrewaju who stole the show with a stunning hat-trick to seal victory for his side.
The young striker wasted no time, scoring a few seconds after kick-off at the Sani Abacha Stadium.
First goal of Hadi Olarewaju’s hat-trick against Barau FC.#SaiMasuGida pic.twitter.com/ydFb4b893S
— Kano Pillars FC (@pillarsfc) February 24, 2025
However, Barau FC responded quickly, equalizing in the 13th minute. Olanrewaju restored Pillars’ lead with a composed finish after being set up by Musa, but Barau FC struck again in the 35th minute to send the teams level into half-time.
With the game finely poised, Pillars were awarded a penalty in the 70th minute. Olanrewaju stepped up confidently to complete his hat-trick, securing the win and delivering Kano Pillars their first trophy of the season.
For Musa, now in his third spell with Pillars, this triumph marks a successful return to domestic football.
The former Leicester City and CSKA Moscow winger will now set his sights on leading Maisu Gida to their first national Federation Cup title since 2015, with Kano Pillars set to represent the state in the competition later this year.