Good morning, Enyimba Faithful!
We resume our posts on Best of the Just Concluded League Season.
On April 6, 2025, I witnessed one of the most electrifying matches of the season: Enyimba vs. Abia Warriors.
As a die-hard Enyimba fan, I’ve seen my share of intense battles, but this derby was something else entirely. The atmosphere in the packed Enyimba International Stadium was electric, with even the deputy governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, in the stands, underscoring the match’s significance. They called it a fiery derby, but nothing prepared us for the drama, missed chances, and heart-stopping finish that left us breathless.
From the opening whistle, the intensity was palpable. Abia Warriors arrived brimming with confidence, chasing dreams of continental football, while Enyimba, still finding our rhythm this season, were determined to defend our home turf. The early moments brought some nerves—Christian Nnaji’s tame shot handed the ball to Warriors’ keeper Uzoigwe, and an injury to Ani Ozoemena forced an early substitution. We held our breath, hoping it wouldn’t disrupt our momentum. Thankfully, our boys stayed focused.
Abia Warriors struck first when Antoine De Souza headed in a pinpoint cross from Megwo. The stadium fell silent, and I could already imagine the WhatsApp group admins crafting their taunts. But Enyimba don’t back down. Kalu Nweke answered with a stunning 25-yard curler that leveled the score, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The stadium roared back to life, and hope surged through the stands. Atule nearly put us ahead, but a comical misstep—let’s just say he mistook the ball for a yam (lol)—kept the score tied. Still, he’d redeem himself later.
The second half was pure adrenaline. We squandered chances—Awazie’s miss was one we’ll be talking about for weeks—but substitutions of Elijah and Mujeeb injected fresh energy. Then came the moment we’d all been waiting for: Atule, our flying winger, kept his cool and slotted the ball past Uzoigwe for a 2-1 lead. The stadium erupted in pure joy! From there, it was about grit and nerve. Abia Warriors pushed hard, but our defense stood tall, and when the final whistle blew, the bragging rights were ours.
Walking out of the stadium, I felt an overwhelming sense of pride. This season hasn’t been easy, but moments like these remind us why we bleed for Enyimba. We’re fighters, and this derby proved it. Abia Warriors left with their tails between their legs, while we solidified our place at the top of the bragging rights table.
Win or lose, supporting Enyimba is an unforgettable ride—heart-stopping, passionate, and worth every second.
We return tomorrow
‘EnyimbaEnyi
