Enyimba FC responded to their setback against Remo Stars with a hard-fought 3–1 victory over Kwara United at the Enyimba International Stadium on Sunday, producing a dominant second-half display to secure maximum points. Chidera Michael was the standout performer, scoring twice to underline a resilient and clinical outing from the People’s Elephant.
There were notable changes in Enyimba’s starting XI, with Dede Dare handed a rare start in goal ahead of Kelvin Ogunga, while Paschal Eze returned to the backline in place of Mohammed Hussaini. Henry Ndedi and Bassey John also came back into the side as the technical crew sought balance and renewed energy.
Enyimba began on the front foot, pressing early and probing for openings. The first clear chance arrived in the 13th minute when Edidiong’s accurate cross found Chidera Michael, but the forward’s effort drifted narrowly wide. Kwara United absorbed the pressure and remained compact as both sides tested each other in a lively opening.
The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when Agu Samuel struck from outside the box. His powerful effort was poorly handled by Kwara goalkeeper Nurudeen, who could only parry the ball into his own net, giving Enyimba a deserved lead. The hosts controlled possession thereafter but failed to extend their advantage.
Kwara United responded eight minutes later, punishing a moment of defensive indecision. A failure to clear the danger allowed Toyeeb Gidado to slot home the equalizer, ensuring the teams went into the break level at 1–1 despite Enyimba’s territorial dominance.
The second half marked a clear shift in momentum. Enyimba returned with greater intensity, pressing higher and forcing errors. An early injury to Dede Dare saw Ogunga introduced, while attacking substitutions injected pace and urgency into the hosts’ play.
Chidera Michael restored Enyimba’s lead in the 57th minute, showing composure and intelligence to finish after driving through the Kwara defense. Three minutes later, he struck again, unleashing a fierce effort that the goalkeeper failed to deal with, completing his brace and putting daylight between the sides.
With a two-goal cushion, Enyimba managed the game effectively. Kwara pushed forward in search of a response, but the hosts remained solid. Enyimba nearly added a fourth late on when Bassey John’s clever pass released Nwaorisa, whose curling effort crashed against the woodwork.
The final whistle confirmed a deserved 3–1 victory, lifting Enyimba to eighth place on the NPFL log and restoring confidence ahead of their next assignment—an away trip to Maiduguri to face El-Kanemi Warriors.
Full Time: Enyimba FC 3–1 Kwara United
Goals: Agu Samuel (22’), Chidera Michael (57’, 60’)
