Some lists will have you scratching your head, pacing, arguing with your conscience—just to get it right. That was me these past few days. The trigger? An article I stumbled upon by one of my bosses, a dyed-in-the-wool Enyimba fan, titled “My Enyimba XI of All Time.” And with that, the challenge was on.
Now, let’s be honest—there’s no such thing as a perfect XI. People will always bring up stats, eye tests, emotional picks, recency bias, and all the usual ingredients. But guess what? I was given free rein to cook mine. And after several hours in the football kitchen, here’s what I’ve prepared. I hope it’s tasty enough. Let me know how I fared.
Formation: 4-3-3
🧤 Goalkeeper — Vincent Enyeama
No debate here. After arriving from Ibom Stars, he grabbed the number one shirt and kept Dele Aiyenugba on the bench for years. Commanding, confident, and simply legendary. Our Numero Uno.
🛡️ Right Back — Yusuf Mohammed
A balanced defender who also contributed going forward. Calm, composed, and rarely put a foot wrong. Wore the No. 7 shirt—a rare but iconic sight for a full-back.
🛡️ Left Back — Ajibade Omolade
This one took me a while! But Ajibade made the left-back role look effortless. A true galloper with defensive discipline. Think Roberto Carlos vibes—minus the free kicks. Quietly effective.
🛡️ Centre Back — Chinedu Udoji (Late)
The General. “Mr. Enyimba” himself. Brave, relentless, always gave his all—even outside the pitch. Udoji was a leader, a fighter, and forever a legend in Aba.
🛡️ Centre Back — Obinna Nwaneri
Orjinta tried to push for this slot, but “Skippo” holds it down. Back-to-back continental titles as captain. Smart, gritty, aerially strong, and cool-headed. A perfect partner to Udoji—the destroyer and the sweeper.
⚙️ Defensive Midfield — Musa Aliyu
I considered Kingsley Elvis and Chidozie Johnson, but Musa got the nod. Quiet but effective. Wins the ball, keeps it simple, and lets others shine. A true midfield water carrier.
🎯 Central Midfield — Onyekachi Okonkwo
This was tough. David Tyavkase served us well, but “Tiko” edges it. Onyekachi’s passing range and technique made him a standout. He was so good Orlando Pirates begged for him. A joy to watch.
🧠 Attacking Midfield — Muri Ogunbiyi
Muri stole the hearts of fans across Nigeria. Whether in Aba or away, he made defenders suffer. That performance in Benin vs Insurance under Okey Emordi? Masterclass. Just magical.
⚡️ Left Wing — Uche Kalu
Solomon Abwo? Ekene Awazie? Tempting, but Uche gets it. Came through the ranks, versatile, intelligent, and a handful for any defense. Still baffles me how his FA Cup goal in Lagos was ruled out.
🔥 Centre Forward — Mfon Udoh
No-brainer. 23 league goals in one season—a record yet to be broken. A lethal finisher with ice in his veins. The man was goals.
⚡️ Right Wing — Steven Nworgu
Yes, I know—Nwanna, Anumunu, Otorogu… but Steven Nworgu takes it. Dominated the continent with ease. CAF Champions League top scorer. Sold for a record fee to Sudan. His legacy is secure.
📝 So there you have it. My Enyimba XI. – Uche Nwokocha.
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Ebuka Ilechukwu wieghed in with his –
🦅 My Enyimba All-Time XI (4–3–3 Formation)
🧤 Goalkeeper
Vincent Enyeama
🛡️ Defense
RB: Markson Ojobo
LB: Ugwu Uwadiegwu
CB: Obinna Nwaneri
CB: Chinedu Udoji (Late)
⚙️ Midfield
DM: Musa Aliyu
CM: Onyekachi Okonkwo
AM: Austin Oladapo
⚡ Attack
LWF: Muri Ogunbiyi
RWF: Joetex Frimpong
CF: Mfon Udoh
🪑 Bench (Strong enough to start):
Dele Aiyenugba, Yusuf Mohammed, Ajibade Omolade, Uga Opara, Rasheed Olabiyi, Ndidi Anumunu, Emeka Nwanna, Michael Ochei (RIP)
