Happy Sunday, Enyimba family!
At last, we have something to truly celebrate—a well-earned victory! And not just against any team, but against Rivers United, led by a former Super Eagles legend and coach.
The last time Rivers United visited Aba, Finidi George’s boys tore them apart 4-1, back when they were struggling and we were chasing the continent. Fast forward a season, and now we’re both struggling, but while they still dream of continental football, we’re just trying to steady the ship.
As expected, Eguma rang in some changes. Godwin Umeh made his debut, while Mujeeeb Odufeso and Issah Mohammed had their first home appearances. Ani Ozoemena kept his place in goal, with Imo Obot and Obichere Wisdom flanking Pascal Eze and Chisom Okechukwu in defense. Fatai Abdullahi and Joseph Atule were in midfield, while Ihemekwele led the attack.
The game started at a cautious pace, both teams trying to feel each other out. But once our boys realized that Rivers United were settling in too comfortably, they turned up the heat. From midfield to attack, we took control, rattling their goalkeeper, Osagie Onisodumeya, who looked shaky with his clearances. We couldn’t capitalize early, but we kept pressing.
Then came the breakthrough! About 20 minutes into the first half, we had a free kick on the left edge of their box—the effort was blocked by the wall. But when we got another from the other side some 20 minutes later, Imo Obot stepped up and curled a beauty beyond Osagie, sending the Enyimba faithful into celebration mode!
Unfortunately, Obot’s night ended early, thanks to a dangerous kick from Nnaji Emmanuel that took him out of the match. It looked serious, and he could be out for a while. We genuinely wish him a speedy recovery—we’ll need him back soon.
In the second half, Finidi George made some changes, bringing on Timothy Zechariah for the Osimhen-esque Chibuike Charles. Zechariah was a real handful for Chisom Okechukwu, while David Benjamin also made an impact but met his match in Obichere Wisdom, who calmly shut him down.
With Rivers United growing into the game, Eguma reacted perfectly, throwing on Nnachi Chidiebere, Akanni, and Awazie. That was all we needed to restore control.
To be fair, Rivers United never truly threatened. Their one real shot on target was routine work for Ozoemena, while at the other end, Osagie pulled off a stunning save to deny us a second. But in the end, 1-0 was enough—three sweet points in the bag!
As you read this, the team is already on the road to Katsina for our midweek clash. Eguma’s post-match comments suggest a motivated camp, and in the NPFL, anything can happen—so we can only hope for the best.
Maybe tomorrow, we’ll dive into the drama behind the 30-minute delay that almost overshadowed the win. For now, let’s just enjoy the victory.
Safe travels to the team!
Enyimba Enyi!
