Good morning, True Blues!
The League may have started a week ago but our hallowed grounds will entertain its very first home match of the new NPFL season. It’s been months since we last congregated here at the Elephant Park, and so much has changed, but here we are again. Nine long months of league football lie ahead, and boring weekends are officially over.
Our first guests? None other than the Ikon Allah Boys. An opponent we know quite well and Niger Tornadoes have shown a knack for survival in this league, even while being nomads, playing home games away from Minna. Somehow, they’ve managed to hold their own season after season, unlike others who’ve stumbled once displaced.
For us, the season began with mixed emotions. That opening match brought moments where we were inches away from both winning and losing, but in the end, it was a point on the road. We don’t want a repeat of last season’s rollercoaster, where too many games left us clutching our hearts. This year calls for something different. We’re hungry for victories, for dominance, for a strong statement and what better place to start than at home?
There’s also plenty to look forward to in terms of personnel. Joseph Atule’s early injury in Kano was a scare, but seeing him back will surely warm hearts. His energy and creativity were among last season’s highlights. Sadly, Mujeeb Odufeso won’t be available after his red card, but this gives space for others especially the new signings we’ve yet to see fully unleashed. Aba deserves a first look at them in action, and it would be disappointing if we had to wait any longer.
On their part, Tornadoes started well with a hard-fought 1–0 win against Nasarawa United in Ilorin. That result will give them somewhat confidence, and they’ll remember their last trip to Aba fondly. But let’s be honest—a determined Enyimba side playing in front of its people for the first time this season should hold quite firmly against the strongest of winds.
Tornadoes could term this a grudge match. They were beaten in the reverse fixture last season despite nicking a point here in Aba. Now, new signings Ismaila Sarki—who once wore our colours—and Terdo Shimangade—who suffered defeat to us on matchday one last season with Heartland (now relegated)—are already talking fire and brimstone.
As for us, the fans, our role is simple: fill the stands, bring the noise, and become the 12th man. Aba must once again be that fortress where opponents fear to visit. The players need us, and we need them, it is a partnership that has made us Nigeria’s most successful club.
So let’s do it: at 4 pm (GMT+1). If you’re in Aba, the stadium is the only place to be. If you’re outside, catch it live on NPFL-Live. Nothing tops the energy of being at Elephant Park, cheering loudly in blue!
The season starts here. Let’s make it a party.
‘EnyimbaEnyi
