Exclusive: Kano Pillars' Tambe Downplays Title Talk, Emphasizes Musa and Shehu's 'Incredible' Impact

Kano Pillars star Charles Tambe has refused to be drawn into early title predictions despite Sai Masu Gida's strong Nigeria Professional Football League campaign.

Late goals from Rabiu Ali and Mustapha Umar saw the four-time Nigerian champions fight back from a two-goal deficit to secure a 2-2 draw at Lobi Stars on Saturday, closing the gap to leaders Remo Stars to just six points.

Usman Abdallah’s team is currently unbeaten in their last four matches, and their impressive recent form has solidified their position as one of the leading contenders for the 2024-25 title.

However, the impressive Cameroonian goalkeeper is keen to manage expectations, insisting that it's still too early to make such predictions.

"It's encouraging to remain unbeaten in our last four league matches, but we’re not letting the results make us complacent," Tambe told SportsBoom.com.

"We’re proud of our performances both at home and away, but I believe it’s still too early to talk about winning the league. With more than 23 matches left to play, our current position doesn’t provide a clear picture of how things will turn out.

"Our focus is on improving our performance with each game and working hard to close the gap with the team ahead of us."

MENTAL CHALLENGES OF SUSTAINING CONSISTENCY

Tambe embraces the pressure of representing a prestigious club like Pillars, fully aware of the expectations that come with the role.

Regardless, the 30-year-old is determined to help the team perform at their best across all competitions, ensuring they maintain their competitive edge.

He continued: "Putting on the Kano Pillars jersey is a challenge in itself because they are one of the biggest teams in Nigeria's history. It demands nothing less than 100% effort every time you’re called to play—anything less is simply unacceptable.

"Aside from that, the other major challenges we face in sustaining our momentum are the long travel distances and ensuring the physical fitness of all our players.

"Often, we spend four to five hours traveling for an away game and then make the same lengthy trip back after the match. Within a few days, we’re expected to play again. 

"Add to that the occasional injuries, which can be a hurdle. But trust me, as long as there are no fitness issues, we’re ready to perform."

PILLARS WARY OF RIVERS UNITED AND REMO STARS

When asked about the teams that could challenge Sai Masu Gida in their pursuit of the NPFL title, Tambe named Rivers United and Remo Stars.

The goalkeeper’s choice is understandable, given that both teams occupy the top two positions and boast a deep pool of talent. 

"Our main rivals in the race for our fifth league title are the two teams at the top: Remo Stars and Rivers United, " the former Shooting Stars goalkeeper added.

"You can’t deny that they are two strong teams, given the quality of their squads and their results so far.  Our plan is to slow them down by securing maximum points when we face them, while also hoping they drop crucial points along the way."

TAMBE HAILS THE IMPACT OF MUSA AND SHEHU

At the beginning of the 2024-25 season, Super Eagles captain and his international teammate Shehu Abdullahi joined Kano Pillars, adding to the growing number of Nigerian internationals making their return to the domestic league from Europe.

For context, former Leicester City forward Musa has been a key player in Sai Masu Gida’s attack, scoring five goals in the four matches he has played so far.

Tambe spoke highly of the influence Musa and Shehu have had on Kano Pillars so far: "Honestly, they’ve been incredibly influential, bringing a wealth of experience both on and off the pitch.

"Their presence has also instilled fear in our opponents. Even during training, they consistently inspire and support the younger players.

"I believe that with their valuable contributions and our ability to maintain our momentum, we can aim for securing a continental ticket to represent Nigeria."

KANO PILLARS FANS: A DRIVING FORCE

Kano Pillars fans are known for their passionate and unwavering support, making them one of the most dedicated fanbases in Nigerian football.

They play a key role in creating a fortress-like atmosphere at their home ground, the Sani Abacha Stadium. Off the pitch, they are a driving force in fostering a strong sense of community and pride around the club.

"Football in Kano is like a tradition and you will be amazed to see the large turnout of fans during our training sessions inside Sani Abacha stadium," hinted Tambe.

"On matchdays, the stadium is always packed to capacity. For example, in our game against Heartland, which marked our return home after a long time, the fans came out in thousands to support us. Of course, we’re disappointed that the match ended in a draw.

"They are our extra players, and I want to take this opportunity to thank them for their unwavering support through both the good and the tough times. 

"With them by our side, we’re confident of a successful season. It’s no exaggeration to say they are the best football fans in Africa."

With Kano Pillars' upcoming match against Enyimba postponed due to the Aba Elephants' involvement in a CAF continental fixture, they now have extra time to prepare for their December 1st clash against Rivers United.

Finidi George's team sits at the top of the NPFL table with 25 points from 13 matches. They secured a 1-0 win over Abia Warriors on Sunday evening, ending a four-game winless run.