Uzoho: Kun Khalifat ready to sink Kano Pillars in relegation fight

Relegation pressure in the Nigeria Premier Football League is reaching boiling point, and all roads lead to the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri today, where Kun Khalifat FC face a defining test against seasoned campaigners Kano Pillars.

With survival hanging in the balance, head coach Obinna Uzoho has set an uncompromising tone ahead of the clash, insisting his side are ready to take down the four-time champions despite the gulf in experience and pedigree.

Kun Khalifat enter the fixture in 18th place with 40 points, firmly in the relegation zone, while Kano Pillars sit 12th with 45 points under the guidance of Mohammed Babaganaru. The gap may appear slim, but the stakes are sharply different, with both teams fighting to avoid being dragged into the season’s final reckoning.

Uzoho, however, dismissed any suggestion that history or league position will shape the outcome.

Speaking to the club’s media channel, he framed the encounter as a battle of mentality over reputation. “We are up against the ‘Old Dogs’ of the NPFL. Sai Masu Gida is a team with deep history we respect that. But we do not fear them,” he said.

He also stressed the psychological edge he believes his squad now carry into the fixture.

“They might have the name, the trophies, the legacy. But we have the hunger a much stronger hunger. We are more technically disciplined and tactically ready for Kano Pillars. This is our home, our fortress, and we are gunning for all three points.”

Recent form offers some support for his confidence. Kun Khalifat are unbeaten in their last three league matches, a run that has revived their survival hopes and injected belief into a previously struggling campaign. Their improved defensive structure and sharper counterattacking play have proven difficult for opponents to break down.