Wikki Tourists of Bauchi have revealed that fatigue played a major role in their 1-1 draw against Nasarawa United in Sunday’s 2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 24 fixture at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi, Completesports.com reports.
Victor Chimezie put the Solid Miners ahead in the 29th minute, but the Giant Elephants responded swiftly as Jonathan Mairiga restored parity six minutes later, scoring in the 35th minute. It was Mairiga’s fifth goal of the season.
Wikki Tourists Held After Strong First-Half Response
Buoyed by the equaliser, Wikki Tourists pushed for a winning goal and were handed a golden opportunity when they were awarded a penalty in the second half.
Also Read: NPFL: Maikaba Relieved As Wikki Tourists End Winless Run With 2-0 Kano Pillars Victory
However, new signing Ibrahim Shuaibu failed to convert from the spot, allowing Nasarawa United to hold on resolutely until the final whistle.
Wikki Suffer Fatigue After Umuahia Trip – Saleh
Head coach Abdul Maikaba was unavailable for the post-match press conference, with his assistant, Bashir Saleh, speaking on behalf of the technical crew.
Saleh attributed the team’s subdued performance to fatigue, following their long journey back from Umuahia after the previous NPFL fixture against Abia Warriors.
He nevertheless praised the players for their resilience, commitment and fighting spirit despite the demanding schedule.
Wikki Tourists To Intensify Penalty Training Ahead Of Matchday 25
Saleh assured that the coaching staff would address the team’s shortcomings, particularly from the penalty spot, ahead of their upcoming matches.
Also Read: NPFL: Wikki Tourists Stun Enyimba In Aba, Rivers United Pip Wolves In South South Derby
“All the same, we, the technical crew, will intensify work in the area of penalty kicks in our preparations for our upcoming games,” Saleh promised.
He also appealed to the club’s supporters to remain patient and continue backing the team.
“We appreciate our fans and want them to continue supporting the team. We need their backing,” he pleaded.
Wikki Tourists will host Katsina United in their NPFL Matchday 25 fixture in Bauchi on Saturday, 7 February 2026.
By Sab Osuji
