Michael Odetunde
Substitute Alex Jerry scored twice in the second half as Kwara United fought back from a two-goal deficit to secure a 2-2 draw against Kano Pillars in the 2026/27 Euromatch-NPFL season opener on Sunday.
The thrilling encounter was played at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl of the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
Kano Pillars started brightly, with former Kwara United captain Shola Abdulraheem opening the scoring in the 12th minute with a composed finish.
Kwara United had an immediate opportunity to level the score but failed to convert their chance.
The visitors doubled their advantage in the 30th minute when veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali produced a sublime finish to silence the home crowd.
However, Kwara United returned from the break with renewed determination, and Alex Jerry pulled one back in the 46th minute, heading home from a resultant corner kick.
The goal lifted the Harmony Boys, who subsequently gained momentum and pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
Substitutions made by Kwara United Technical Adviser Ashifat Suleiman injected fresh energy into the home side as they continued to press Kano Pillars.
With time running out, Kwara United refused to give up, and their persistence finally paid off when Jerry scored his second goal of the game in the dying moments to send the stadium into wild celebration and rescue a point for the hosts. 
The result means Kwara United’s struggles to win their opening home league fixture continue.
The Harmony Boys lost 2-1 to Niger Tornadoes in the 2024/25 season opener, drew 1-1 with Ikorodu City in the 2025/26 campaign, and have now drawn 2-2 with Kano Pillars in the 2026/27 season opener.
Speaking after the game, Kwara United Technical Adviser Ashifat Suleiman admitted that the result was not the ideal start for his team but expressed confidence that the squad would improve as the season progresses.
“It is not a good start for the team, but we will get it right with time. Most of the players are playing in the NPFL for the first time, and that affected the team.”
Ashifat also assured the fans that Kwara United would produce better performances as the season progresses.
Kano Pillars coach Daniel Ogunmodede said he was not surprised by Kwara United’s fightback, insisting that his side deserved to win but acknowledging that the hosts also deserved their comeback.
“Luckily, I wasn’t expecting less from the home team. I don’t think we are lucky. Did we deserve to win the game? The answer is yes. Do they deserve to come back? I also say yes.
“They never gave up. They fought and got a good point.”
Kwara United will travel to face Plateau United next weekend, while Kano Pillars will host Niger Tornadoes in their respective Matchday Two fixtures.
