Ogunmodede: Kano Pillars win ends five-game wait for victory

Kano Pillars technical adviser Daniel Ogunmodede says winning has remained his motivation throughout his career after his side ended a five-match winless run with a 1-0 victory over Katsina United in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Sai Masu Gida scored the decisive goal in Sunday’s derby at the Sani Abacha Stadium, securing all three points for Kano Pillars and giving the home supporters a much-needed reason to celebrate.

The result ended a difficult spell for the club, which had gone five matches without a win. It also provided an immediate boost for the players and supporters, who had seen their team struggle for form.

Ogunmodede praised his players for standing firm under pressure and producing a result in a demanding local fixture.

“I must congratulate the boys for putting up a brilliant fight. We had not tasted a win in the last five games, and they delivered in the derby,” he said after the match.

He also acknowledged the pressure the team faced, particularly during the opening stages of the contest.

“Congratulations to the team for breaking the jinx and winning for the coach and the fans. They were under a lot of pressure, especially at the start of the game,” Ogunmodede added.

The Kano Pillars coach was pleased with the way his team combined attacking quality with defensive discipline to protect their narrow lead.

“That was a very good goal. We attacked well and defended well to get the maximum points with a clean sheet,” he said.

The victory was particularly significant because it came against Katsina United in a derby, with Kano Pillars needing a positive result to halt their poor run and rebuild confidence.

Ogunmodede said the responsibility to deliver victories was central to his role and that his desire to win had remained unchanged for 30 years.

“It is part of my job to win. I like winning because that is what I am paid for. For three decades now, winning has always been my motive,” he stated.