Kano Pillars break jinx to win 2019 Aiteo Cup
Kano Pillars FC yesterday emerged winners of the 2019 Aiteo Cup after defeating Niger Tornadoes 4-3 on penalties at the Ahmadu Bello stadium in Kaduna.
The two northern clubs had played out a barren draw in regulation time before the penalty kicks that ensued.
In his search for goals, the coach of Pillars, Ibrahim Musa deployed the duo of Nyima Nwangua and David Odenigbo in the attack while the team’s inspirational midfielder Rabiu Ali controlled the midfield.
On his part, Niger Tornadoes gaffer, Abubakar Bala unleashed Ahmadu Liman and Isamiala Sarki on Kano Pillars defence.
Although both sides approached the match cautiously, the remaining minutes of the first 45 minutes saw Tornadoes making some incursions into
Pillars defence.
However, Pillars stood firm to ensure the first half ended goalless.
When the second half resumed, talismanic captain almost gave Pillars the lead with a well taken free-kick but his effort missed the target narrowly.
As the approached match the end, there was more urgency in the play of Pillars who continued to probe Tornadoes defence but the ‘Ikon Allah boys’ goalkeeper and captain, Mustapha Aliko refused to be caught napping.
The former junior international was at his best as he made brilliant saves to keep his team in the contest.
Although Tornadoes also mounted their own pressure on the defence of Pillars in the concluding minutes of the match, there was nothing to show for their efforts.
At the end of 90 minutes, the two clubs weren’t separated but Pillars won 4-3 in the resultant penalty kicks to be crowned champions for the first time in 66 years.
It will be recalled that both teams headed into yesterday’s match as losing finalists in 2017 and 2018.
While Tornadoes lost 3-2 on penalties to Akwa United in 2017, Kano Pillars were beaten 4-2 on penalties by Enugu Rangers in 2018.
With the win, Kano Pillars will receive the sum of N25 million as prize money while Niger Tornadoes will be rewarded with N10m.
Meanwhile, the highly entertaining final was almost marred by pitch invasion which happened immediately after the referee blew the final whistle.