Barau Football Club recorded a stunning 4–1 victory over Rivers United in a rescheduled Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday Five encounter.
The match was played on Friday, December 19, 2025, at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata, and marked Barau FC’s final home fixture of the first stanza of the NPFL season.
Ahmed Hamisu Gwale, the Director of Media and publicity of the Club in a statement sent to GLOBAL TRACKER said Rivers United took an early lead in the 4th minute, but Barau FC responded through midfielder Usman Maidubji, who equalised from the penalty spot in the 25th minute to score his second goal of the season.
READ ALSO: Barau FC Coaches, Officials Decry Deduction of Two Months’ Salary, Seek Explanation from Management
The Kano-based side came from a goal down to outclass the former NPFL champions in a thrilling display, as Jimmy Ambrose completed the comeback just before halftime, scoring in the 45th minute to give Barau FC a 2–1 lead going into the break.
Former Rivers United player Kabir Abdullahi, who came on as a substitute, delivered a memorable performance by scoring twice in the 64th and 72nd minutes. The two goals were his first of the season and sealed a comprehensive victory for the hosts.
The result represents Barau FC’s biggest win in Nigeria’s top flight and also handed Rivers United their heaviest defeat of the season.
Following the victory, Barau FC moved up to 16th position on the NPFL table with 20 points from 17 matches, successfully escaping the relegation zone.
Barau FC midfielder Muhammad Umar was voted SWAN Man of the Match following his outstanding performance, which contributed significantly to the team’s victory.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Barau Football Club Technical Adviser, Ladan Bosso, commended the resilience and performance of his players and also praised the club’s management for their support.
Bosso noted that the club would continue its preparations for the remaining first-round matches, adding that the team remains focused on pushing for continental qualification.
The Maliya Boys now face two away fixtures, travelling to face Nasarawa United in Matchday 18 before concluding the first round against Niger Tornadoes in Minna.
Barau FC will next turn their attention to a trip to Lafia, where they will face Nasarawa United at the Lafia City Stadium on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.