By Aderonke Ojo
Wikki Tourists FC continued their steady form in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a valuable away point following a goalless draw against Barau FC at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, on Sunday, November 2, 2025, in a keenly contested Matchday 11 encounter.
The fixture was played behind closed doors in compliance with a league directive following violent scenes during the Kano Pillars versus Shooting Stars game earlier in the campaign, where fans attacked match officials and players over controversial officiating. The Kano State Football Association was subsequently criticized for failing to provide adequate security during that incident, prompting the temporary restriction on spectators at the venue.
Despite the absence of fans, both sides displayed intensity and tactical discipline throughout the match. Wikki Tourists controlled much of the early proceedings, dictating possession and creating the better chances. Their best opportunity came in the 35th minute, when Abdullahi Usman forced a fine save from Barau’s goalkeeper Yusuf Mohammed, whose agility denied the visitors an opener.
Wikki suffered a setback when winger Sadeeq Kante sustained an injury that hampered his movement. Despite efforts from the medical team, he could not continue and was substituted in the 63rd minute for Naziru Auwalu.
Forward Jonathan Mairiga remained lively throughout the encounter, coming close to breaking the deadlock in the 78th minute, but Barau’s goalkeeper again proved decisive with a brilliant save to keep the score level.
At the other end, Wikki’s goalkeeper Godwill Utum stood firm, producing several key saves to ensure the Tourists left Kano with a clean sheet and a well-earned point.
The referee added 10 minutes of stoppage time due to injuries and delays, but neither side could find a late winner before the final whistle.
Speaking after the match, Coach Abdu Maikaba praised his players for their effort and composure.
“It was important we were able to grab a point here in Kano, which means a lot as far as the league is concerned. We’ll keep improving, strategize better, and ensure we perform even stronger in coming games,” Maikaba said.
He also maintained a calm tone regarding officiating.
“So far, so good. Referees are humans and mistakes can happen, but we hope to see better improvements in future matches.”
With this result, Wikki Tourists FC occupy 14th position on the NPFL log with 13 points from 11 matches, while Barau FC remain 18th with 9 points from 10 games.
Attention now turns to Wikki’s next home fixture at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi, where they will host Niger Tornadoes in a highly anticipated clash expected to draw strong local support.