Katsina United have qualified for the Naija Siper 8 finals in Lagos after securing a slim victory over Northwest rivals, Kano Pillars.
The Northwest derby was keenly contested by both sides but as both sides sized each other up in front of a decent crowd at the Eket Stadium in Akwa Ibom.
Kano Pillars captain, Rabiu Alli had the first real chance of the game in the 30th minute but the veteran failed to convert as he directed his shot at the Katsina United goalie.
The match remained goalless in the first half as neither side could find a breakthrough after 45 minutes of football.
The second half started just like the first half ended as both teams tried to find the breakthrough.
Katsina United thought they have taken the lead in the 66th minute after Samson Olasofo’s rebound found the back of the net but the goal was ruled out for offside.
With less than five minutes to the end of the match, Samson Olasofo was in the right spot in the box as he buried a low drive shot beyond Kano Pillars goalkeeper to give his side the lead late in the game.
Katsina United held on to their lead as they booked their spot into the finals of the competition in Lagos next month.
They have also become the second Nigeria National League side to qualify for the finals after Yobe Desert Stars.
