Gusau/Ahlan Cup Showdown: Kano Pillars, Plateau United Set For Fierce Final
Yahaya Kana Onzonu, Lafia
The stage is set for the grand finale of the 2025 Gusau/Ahlan Preseason Cup as Kano Pillars lock horns with Plateau United this Friday at the Lafia City Stadium.
Kano Pillars topped Group C but fell 2–1 to Plateau United in the group stage, with goals from Samuel Kalu and Albert Hillary sealing victory for the Jos side. Ahmed Musa’s 90th-minute strike came too late for Pillars.
Since that setback, Pillars have been on a roll, winning three straight matches and netting nine goals. Similarly, Plateau United, coached by Adesola Adegun remain unbeaten in the tournament with three draws and two wins, including a statement 2–0 victory over Nasarawa United, courtesy of goals from Joshua Dabo and Maren Kefas.
In the semifinals, Pillars brushed aside Abdul Maikaba’s Wikki Tourists 2–0, while Plateau United maintained their composure against Lafia-based Nasarawa United to secure their place in the final.
This clash offers Pillars the perfect chance to avenge their earlier defeat, with the duo of Ahmed Musa and Aliyu Umar responsible for seven of their nine goals, expected to lead the charge. Plateau United will bank on the firepower of Albert Hillary, Samuel Kalu, and Gift Osadebe as they chase their first-ever Gusau/Ahlan Cup title.
The final, set to be streamed live via a link to be made available by the organisers, is expected to draw fans from all over the country. NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau will lead the list of dignitaries to the showpiece.
Nasarawa State governor Engr Abdullahi Sule and members of the State Executive Council are also expected at the final.