Alex Jerry shines as Kwara United salvage dramatic draw against Kano Pillars

Alex Jerry emerged as Kwara United’s hero, scoring two second-half goals to rescue a point for Harmony Boys in a thrilling 2-2 draw against Kano Pillars in their first match of the 2026/27 EuroMatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season on Sunday at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl at the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.

Kwara United found themselves two goals behind at half-time after Shola Abdulraheem opened the scoring for Kano Pillars in the 13th minute before veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali doubled the visitors’ lead with a powerful strike in the 30th minute.

With the Harmony Boys on the verge of losing at home, coach Ashifat Sulyman introduced Alex Jerry in place of Sani Mohammed at the start of the second half, a decision that would prove decisive.

Jerry wasted no time in making his presence felt, closing the gap for Kwara United and giving the home team renewed confidence.

His goal sparked a strong response from the hosts, who began to dominate possession and put pressure on Kano Pillars as they looked for an equaliser.

Jerry continued to be the center of Kwara United’s attacking threat, and his persistence was finally rewarded in injury time when he found the back of the net again to complete a spectacular double and secure a 2-2 draw.

The substitute’s remarkable performance in the second half earned him the Cyteck Man of the Match award, sponsored by Engr. Olaide Ahmed, after single-handedly inspiring Kwara United’s comeback.

Speaking after the match, Kwara United coach Ashifat Sulyman admitted that his team was punished for not taking advantage of their opportunities, while praising the team’s response in the second half.

“We didn’t take advantage of our opportunities and this came back to haunt us. Kano Pillars took advantage of the opportunities that came their way. We will make up for it in our next games,” Sulyman said.

Despite dropping two points at home, Kwara United will take confidence from their fighting spirit and Jerry’s impressive performance as they prepare for their next assignment.

The Harmony Boys will travel to Jos next weekend to take on Plateau United in the second round of the NPFL.