Kano Pillars Wednesday proved that they are still a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian football as the former champions walloped Zamfara United 5-0 in the Aiteo Cup Round of 32 matches played at the Ahmadu Bello stadium Kaduna.
Pillars who were relegated at the end of the 2012/2022 NPFL season got off to a perfect start as Godspower Aniefiok put them ahead in the 20th minute and doubled the lead just before the end of the first half.
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In the 53rd minute, Rabiu Ali made it 3-0. Few minutes later, Pillars increased their tally to four before Ali scored his brace from a free-kick in the 70th minute to win the game at 5-0.
Elsewhere, there was a big upset in Enugu as NNL side, Green Berets (Nigerian Army team) knocked out defending champions, Bayelsa United, 5-4 on penalties after 0-0 in regulation time.
Six-time champions, Enugu Rangers also bowed out as relegated Heartland FC defeated them 8-7 on penalties after the regulation time ended 1-1.
Meanwhile, results from other centers saw Bendel Insurance defeating Ottasolo 4-3 on penalties while Niger Tornadoes caused another upset as they edged Enyimba 6-5 on penalties after 0-0 in regulation time.
Relegated Katsina United also redeemed their image with a 3-1 victory over Cynosure FC while Elkanemi Warriors defeated Fulfill FC 1-0.
In the same vein, DMD of Maiduguri moved to the next round after defeating Housing Corporation 4-2 on penalties while Nasarawa United battled to a 11-10 victory on penalties over Sokoto United.
A Samuel Amadi hattrick was all that Akwa United needed to end Remo Stars campaign while Kogi United won 5-4 on penalties after they were held 0-0 by Kanta United.
Sunshine Stars shone brightly over Calabar Rovers with an emphatic 5-1 victory while Kwara United lost 3-4 on penalties to Wikki Tourists in Abuja after the normal time ended 1-1.
Akure City Academy defeated Bendel insurance Feeders 2-1 just as Lobi Stars clinically defeated Doma 3-0 in Jos.
Round of 16 matches have been scheduled for Sunday, August 7.
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