Sikiru Alimi makes a strong return to NPFL with a brilliant goal

Sikiru Alimi made his comeback to the Nigeria Premier Football League with an impressive goal for Kano Pillars. They played to a 1-1 draw against Kun Khalifat FC in Owerri on Friday. Alimi came off the bench to score in the 74th minute, giving Pillars hope for their first away win this season.

Kano Pillars coach Daniel Ogunmodede had chosen to start Alimi, Rabiu Ali and Ahmed Musa on the bench for the match in Owerri. Ubong Friday and Yahaya Ibrahim led the attack, but Pillars had a tough time making their early control count. Yahaya had a good chance midway through the first half but his shot was saved by Kun Khalifat goalkeeper Esomchi Ekwujuru.

The second half started slowly with few chances until Ogunmodede brought on Alimi and Musa for Friday and Justus Ohanu in the 57th minute. This change had a big impact as Alimi took just 17 minutes to make his presence felt.

He received a pass from the right and moved toward the center, looking for Musa. The ball deflected off a Kun Khalifat defender and fell perfectly for him. He took his chance and fired a shot from the edge of the box past Ekwujuru.

But Pillars' dream of their first away victory was cut short when Kun Khalifat won a late penalty. Ebuka Okoro converted the penalty, earning a point for the home side.

Despite the draw, Pillars closed the gap to league leaders Enugu Rangers, who will face Kwara United on Sunday. Alimi's return was memorable after spending time abroad.

His last league action was in the 2024/25 season, where he helped Remo Stars win the title before moving to JS Saoura in Algeria. The 30-year-old now has 62 goals and 13 assists in 199 NPFL matches, according to Transfermarkt.