Abdulraheem Shola marked his Kano Pillars debut with a goal, but the midfielder struggled to show his delight after scoring against former side Kwara United.
Shola opened the scoring in the 11th minute of Pillars’ first 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League match in Ilorin.
His past with Kwara United made the occasion particularly emotional despite his new allegiance. Shola said celebrating felt uncomfortable because the fixture also represented the professional side of football.
Quick facts
- Shola scored on his Kano Pillars debut.
- His goal came in the 11th minute in Ilorin.
- Kwara United and Kano Pillars finished level at 2-2.
- The match was the opening fixture of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League campaign.
“Celebrating was not easy for me,” Shola said. He added that, as a former United player now representing Pillars, the situation ultimately had to be treated as part of the game and his profession.
Kano Pillars extended their lead later in the contest, but Kwara United responded strongly to recover a 2-2 draw.
Shola was disappointed that Pillars failed to secure all three points after moving two goals clear. However, he chose to underline the importance of collecting a point away from home so early in the season.
“The campaign has only just started, so we are satisfied with the point,” he said.
The match provided an unusual introduction to Shola’s new chapter: his first appearance for Pillars came against familiar opposition, he scored against his former club and his team returned home with an away draw.
He will now focus on earning a regular place in the Kano Pillars midfield as the season develops.
