Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa gave fans in Kaduna something to cheer about as he returned home for the holiday break, bringing star power to the local pitch and reminding everyone why he remains one of Nigeria’s most beloved footballers.
According to a NewsVista reporter, the 32-year-old forward, currently playing for Kano Pillars, partnered with Valencia star Sadiq Umar in an exhibition match at Barnawa, Kaduna — a game that quickly turned into a football carnival. Musa, wearing Team Blue’s colours, operated from his signature left wing, dazzling the crowd with speed, sharp footwork, and goals.
He didn’t just show up — he delivered. Musa netted a brilliant hat-trick, including a free-kick that sent spectators into a frenzy. All three goals came off assists from Sadiq Umar, forming a lethal partnership that overwhelmed the opposing Team Orange.
The energy in the air was electric. Fans filled every inch of the pitch perimeter, some climbing onto nearby rooftops just to catch a glimpse of their hometown hero in action. After the final whistle, Musa — often referred to as “The Governor” by fans in Northern Nigeria — was mobbed by excited supporters. Security officers had their hands full keeping the crowd at bay, though Musa still managed to exchange a few words with one of the grassroots coaches before leaving the scene.
Sadiq Umar, less animated but just as effective on the pitch, quietly exited the venue under personal security, having played his part in a match that will surely be remembered for a long time in Kaduna’s football community.
Musa’s presence goes far beyond just goals. He recently featured in the high-profile #PlayForPurpose charity match organized by William Troost-Ekong, where he assisted Kelechi Iheanacho in one of the game’s most celebrated goals. His recent return to the Super Eagles squad during the Unity Cup in London, after being dropped for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, shows his determination to remain an influential figure in Nigerian football.
As the 2024/25 NPFL season wrapped up, Musa recorded eight goals and two assists, according to Transfermarkt, proving he’s still got plenty left in the tank. His fans hope this momentum can translate into national success, especially as Nigeria prepares for its next World Cup qualifier against Rwanda.
Reflecting on the stakes, Musa previously warned that missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup would be catastrophic for the country’s footballing future — a sentiment that carries more weight given his decade-long commitment to the national team and his standing as Nigeria’s top scorer in World Cup history.
But for now, the Super Eagles captain is making the most of his time off — bringing joy to local fans, supporting grassroots football, and quietly reminding everyone why he’s still one of the game’s finest ambassadors.
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