Kwara United were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw against Kano Pillars in their opening fixture of the 2026/27 Euromatch Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season on Sunday at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.

The Harmony Boys found themselves two goals down in the first half before a spirited second-half comeback, inspired by substitute Alex Jerry, earned them a share of the points.

Kano Pillars took the lead in the 13th minute through Shola Abdulraheem, who capitalised on a defensive lapse by the home side.

Kwara United goalkeeper Ouattara Khalifa had punched the ball away, but the Harmony Boys failed to clear their lines, allowing Abdulraheem to react quickest and fire the ball into the net.

The hosts immediately went in search of an equaliser, with Joseph Gideon coming close shortly after the restart, only for his effort to go narrowly wide.

Against the run of play, Kano Pillars doubled their advantage in the 30th minute through veteran midfielder Rabiu Ali, whose thunderous effort rattled the net beyond the reach of Ouattara, sending the visiting supporters into celebration.

Kwara United went into the break two goals down.

The Harmony Boys returned for the second half with renewed determination, and their pressure soon paid off when Abdulsalam Abdulsalam made an impact by scoring to reduce the deficit.

The goal lifted the home side, who began to dictate the tempo as Coach Ashifat Sulyman made further tactical changes.

Kwara United continued to dominate proceedings and created several opportunities as the home fans, who turned out in large numbers, urged the team forward.

Their persistence eventually paid off deep into stoppage time when Jerry scored with a superb equaliser to rescue a point for the Harmony Boys.

His outstanding second-half performance earned him the Cyteck Man of the Match award.