NPFL sanctions force silent showdown between Barau and Pillars

The city of Kano will witness its first-ever Nigeria Premier Football League derby on Sunday when Barau FC lock horns with city rivals Kano Pillars at the Sani Abacha Stadium, though the clash will unfold behind closed doors due to disciplinary sanctions, Sport360NG reports.

Both sides enter the encounter in search of a much-needed lift after disappointing starts to the season. Barau sit bottom of the NPFL table with just one win, while Pillars occupy 17th place on eight points, desperate to rediscover form and stability.

The highly anticipated fixture, however, will be played without the roar of fans. The NPFL directed Pillars to serve a home ban in Katsina after crowd violence marred their last home match against Shooting Stars. In addition to a ₦9.5m fine, the club was docked three points and three goals.

Since Barau share the Sani Abacha Stadium with Pillars, the league has ruled that the derby be staged in Kano but behind closed doors for security reasons.

A statement signed by NPFL Chief Operating Officer, Davidson Owumi, confirmed that only referees, state football officials, accredited journalists, and security personnel will be granted access to the venue.

“No spectators, supporters, or unauthorised individuals shall be admitted into the stadium under any circumstances,” the statement read.

Despite the restrictions, emotions are running high ahead of kickoff. Barau captain Salim Ali exuded confidence, insisting that his team are focused on securing all three points to spark their revival.

“By God’s will, we will defeat Pillars here at home,” Ali said after Saturday’s training session. “Our previous losses are behind us, we are concentrating on the future. Insha Allah, we’ll win this one and begin our climb out of the relegation zone.”

He urged supporters to remain patient and hopeful despite recent struggles.

“Football is full of surprises. Even teams at the bottom can rise again. We just ask our fans to stay calm and believe in us. Very soon, we’ll give them reasons to smile,” he added.

Barau’s buildup to the derby had been clouded by rumours suggesting the dismissal of Technical Adviser Ladan Bosso. The club, however, swiftly refuted the reports.

In a statement signed by club president Shawal Barau Jibrin, the management reaffirmed Bosso’s position, adding that Ibrahim Tata remains the chief coach.

On the other side, Pillars have been boosted by the return of midfielder Auwalu Ali Malam, who resumed light training this week after recovering from an injury sustained on matchday two.

Defender Mustapha Jibrin, scorer of the club’s opener in their previous outing, said the team is eager to use the derby as a springboard to better performances.

“This is a great opportunity and a blessing from Allah,” Jibrin told the club media. “Last week’s game was tough, but we’ll keep giving 100 per cent in every match. Our goal is to keep improving and winning for the fans.”

With both teams struggling for consistency, Sunday’s silent derby could prove decisive. For Barau, victory may ignite their survival bid, while Pillars hope to ease pressure on Evans Ogenyi’s technical crew and steady their campaign.