It’s the weekend!
Fridays are special. The mills slow down, the operators kick back, and even civil servants start counting down to sweet, sweet rest. But while we unwind, our darling Enyimba keep grinding.
So far this season, we’ve racked up 35 matches (yes, thirty-five!). With 11 more league games and a potential 6 in the President’s Federation Cup, we’re staring down the barrel of over 46 matches—beating last season’s 42. The hustle is real.
Now, with all that action, who’s been standing out? Today, let me hit you with my Top 5 Performers (so far) this season.
1. Ani Ozoemena
Our MVP. Our wall. Our lifesaver.
Ani Ozoemena has been nothing short of sensational. After seasons of quietly learning from the likes of Ojo Olorunleke and Bassa Djerri, the man stepped up when it mattered most. With 24 matches, 2,160 minutes, 8 wins, 10 draws, and 6 defeats, plus 9 clean sheets, Ani has been worth his weight in gold.
High point? The heroic saves during that brutal 2-0 loss in Ismailia. It could’ve been uglier, but Ani kept us respectable. If you’re wondering why he’s CHAN Eagles’ No. 1, wonder no more.
2. Ifeanyi Ihemekwele
Aba boy through and through.
Straight from Ijebu United, Ifeanyi was tasked with filling the boots of our back-to-back top scorers. No pressure, right? Yet, here he is, grinding out 8 goals and 1 assist in 33 matches. Might not look like Haaland numbers, but considering the leap from NNL to Enyimba and leading the line nearly every match? Massive respect.
3. Imo Obot
Injuries have been messing with his flow, but when fit, Imo delivers. With 1 goal, 1 assist, and just 3 defeats in 16 matches, plus 6 clean sheets when he’s on duty, this ex-Dakkada man has been balancing his defensive chores with those sneaky forward runs. One of our quiet heroes.
4. Joseph Atule
Remember the transfer tug-of-war with Rivers United? We won. It’s taken him over two seasons and three coaches, but Atule is finally reminding us why he was once the league’s hottest winger. With 5 goals and 2 assists in 26 matches, he’s our second-highest goal contributor. More of this, please.
5. Ekene Awazie
People ask why Ekene keeps making the starting XI. Simple: the man produces. 4 goals, 1 assist, and 24 matches later, Awazie is proving why every coach rates him. Sure, he can be frustrating to watch, but his attacking threat is real—and when it clicks, it clicks big.
Now, if you’re wondering why we’ve had some recent struggles, just remember that two of these five are out injured. It’s no coincidence. Time for the rest to step up.
Honorable Mentions
Daniel Daga, Clinton Jephtha (3 goals, 2 assists despite injuries and national duty) and the fresh face, Isah Mohammed.
Next stop: El Kanemi Warriors this weekend. Our position? Uncomfortable. Our goal? 3 big points only. T for thanks.
see you tomorrow,
EnyimbaEnyi