End of an era: Former Al-Nassr star condemns club to first relegation in 27 years

End of an era: Former Al-Nassr star condemns club to first relegation in 27 years

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 14:39 - 14.04.2025

Super Eagles skipper Ahmed Musa celebrated his seventh goal of the season for boyhood club Kano Pillars in the Nigeria Football League, sealing the fate of Lobi Stars in the competition.

Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa delivered a decisive blow in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), scoring his seventh goal of the 2024/2025 season for Kano Pillars in a 2-0 victory that relegated Lobi Stars for the first time in 27 years.

The historic match, played at Sani Abacha Stadium, saw Musa break the deadlock in the 55th minute off a pinpoint assist from veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali. 

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His clinical finish sparked wild celebrations among Pillars fans and sealed the fate of Lobi Stars, who had been a mainstay in Nigeria’s top flight since 1998. 

A second goal from 12 yards late in the game to cement the result and Lobi’s fate.

Ahmed Musa and his Pillars teammates

Musa, 32, returned to his boyhood club Kano Pillars this season after a storied international career, including stints at Leicester City and Al-Nassr. 

His leadership and flair have revitalised Pillars, with seven goals and multiple assists in the campaign. 

Lobi Stars are down and out.

Lobi Stars, the NPFL’s inaugural champions in their 1998-99 debut season, faced a turbulent year marked by five managerial changes, playing across three different venues, and off-field challenges, including an incident where players were reportedly threatened and locked in their team bus after an away game. 

Their relegation ends an era of resilience, dropping them to the Nigeria National League for the first time since their top-flight ascent.

Ahmed Musa has 7 goals for Pillars.

The result stressed Musa’s enduring impact on Nigerian football. With 108 caps for the Super Eagles and a legacy as Nigeria’s top World Cup scorer, his return to the NPFL has drawn record crowds and inspired young talents. 

Kano Pillars, now in contention for a top-four finish, owe much to his experience and passion.

For Lobi Stars, the focus shifts to rebuilding while Musa’s heroics keep Pillars’ ambitions alive, proving the Super Eagles legend still has plenty to offer.