Two Kano State football clubs, Kano Pillars FC and Barau FC, were eliminated from the 2025 President Federation Cup this week during the Round of 64. Â
On Tuesday, Kano Pillars lost 1-0 to Enugu Rangers International at Bwari Township Stadium. Chiedozie Okorie’s 65th-minute goal secured the win for Rangers in a tightly contested match between two of Nigeria’s historically successful clubs.
Barau FC, making their tournament debut after promotion from the Nigerian National League (NNL), fell 2-1 to former Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions Rivers United on Wednesday at Abuja’s Area 3 Pitch.
Rivers United took an early lead with goals from Chijioke Mbaoma (12th minute) and Philip Odubia (26th minute). Barau’s George Enyia reduced the deficit in the 36th minute, but the team could not equalize. The match marked the first-ever meeting between the two clubs.
Kano Pillars, last crowned champions in 2019 after a penalty shootout victory over Niger Tornadoes, have faced repeated challenges in reclaiming the title.
Barau’s exit highlights struggles for Kano State clubs in national competitions, raising questions about their readiness for higher-level tournaments.
The President Federation Cup Round of 32 fixtures, scheduled for next month, include matches such as Heartland FC vs. Rangers International, Enyimba FC vs. Elkanemi Warriors, and Rivers United vs. Beyond Limits. Other pairings feature Lobi Stars against Solution FC and Bendel Insurance versus Adamawa United.
With both Kano clubs eliminated early, discussions now center on the declining competitiveness of the state’s teams in Nigerian football.
Kano Pillars’ prolonged trophy drought and Barau’s inability to advance despite a determined effort against top-tier opposition underscore broader concerns about development and preparation.