Barau FC have taken the lead in the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after a 2-0 win against Abia Warriors at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano. The match, which was part of Matchday 5, saw Barau FC maintain their unbeaten start to the season. Goals from Joseph Atule and substitute Ibrahim Ayoola secured the victory. This win underlines Barau FC's impressive early-season form and strengthens their position among the leading contenders.
The match began with Barau FC taking control, as Atule opened the scoring in the 21st minute, giving the hosts a deserved advantage before halftime. The goal provided the platform for Barau FC to manage the game with greater confidence, as Abia Warriors struggled to find a response. Abia Warriors had arrived in Kano following a 2-0 away victory over Sporting Lagos, but they were unable to reproduce that performance.
Barau FC maintained their advantage into halftime and returned from the break determined to put the contest beyond the visitors. Coach Eugene Agagbe introduced Ibrahim Ayoola at the beginning of the second half, and the substitute made an immediate impact. Ayoola doubled Barau FC's advantage in the 61st minute, giving the hosts a two-goal cushion and leaving Abia Warriors with a difficult task.
The victory extended Barau FC's unbeaten run to five matches, following two wins and two draws in their opening four league games. Before this encounter, the Kano side had recorded home victories and away draws, including a goalless draw against Ikorodu City on Matchday 4. This consistency has now been rewarded with the leadership of the NPFL table.
Barau FC's rise to the summit represents a significant early-season statement for a side that has shown resilience both at home and on the road. Their next match will be against Sporting Lagos at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on September 26, in Matchday 6. This encounter will provide another test of their unbeaten record, particularly against a Sporting Lagos side that secured a notable 3-2 victory over Enyimba.
Barau FC's head coach, Eugene Agagbe, commended his players for their commitment and determination in securing the three points. He stressed the need for his team to remain focused and approach the campaign one match at a time, while targeting another positive result in their forthcoming fixture in Lagos. Maintaining their current momentum will now be the priority as the season gathers pace.
With five matches played without defeat, Barau FC have established themselves as one of the early pace-setters in the NPFL. Their ability to sustain that form away from Kano will provide another measure of their progress. The challenge begins in Lagos on September 26, with Barau FC seeking to protect their unbeaten record and retain their place at the top of the table.
Key points
- Barau FC climbed to the NPFL summit with a 2-0 victory over Abia Warriors.
- The win extended Barau FC's unbeaten run to five matches.
- Barau FC's next match is against Sporting Lagos on September 26.
