Kwara United held to 1-1 draw by Kano Pillars in Ilorin as relegation struggles continue

Kwara United’s battle to move out of the relegation zone on the NPFL table hit a gridlock on Sunday as they were forced to a 1–1 draw in Matchday 26 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl of the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.

The Harmony Boys dominated proceedings in the first half, piling pressure on the visitors with an impressive attacking display. Junior Aimufua, Johnmark Aule, Gidado Toheeb, and Hannafi Babatunde consistently troubled the opposition defence.

Their early dominance paid off in the 7th minute when Johnmark Aule clinically finished a well-delivered pass from Junior Aimufua to give the home side a deserved lead.

Kwara United continued to push for more goals, creating several chances, but were unable to convert their opportunities to extend the advantage before the break.

In the second half, the visitors grew in confidence, particularly through set pieces, as the hosts allowed them brief moments of penetration into dangerous areas.

Coach Ashifat Suleiman made tactical substitutions in a bid to restore the intensity of the first-half performance. However, the visitors capitalised on a defensive lapse in the 80th minute, with Luiz Dadong finding the equaliser.

There was late drama in the 86th minute when Toheeb Gidado was brought down inside the penalty area. The home side appealed for a spot kick, but the centre referee instead awarded a free kick at the edge of the box.

Kwara United remain 18th on the league table with 28 points after 25 matches and will now shift focus to their outstanding fixture against Rivers United scheduled for Wednesday.

The result however left Kwara United fans and supporters alike frustrated as the team still remains in relegation zone. Kwara United has maintained its NPFL status for the past consecutive six football seasons following its acquisition of the defunct Delta Force FC in 2019.