In a rescheduled NPFL Matchday 17 encounter at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba, on Wednesday, former league champions Enyimba FC revived their league title dreams with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Nasarawa United.
This marks the Aba giants’ first league win in six matches, signaling a potential resurgence under new head coach Stanley Eguma.
Goals from Joseph Atule and substitute, Brown Ideye were enough to see off the Solid Miners in front of the home crowd, as Eguma’s tactical nous and faith in his squad began to bear fruit.
The match saw Eguma retain much of the lineup that triumphed over Black Bulls FC in continental action on Sunday, with only Kalu Nweke stepping in for Fatai Abdullahi. The People’s Elephant started brightly, controlling possession and testing Nasarawa’s resolve.
The breakthrough came in the dying moments of the first half when rejuvenated winger Joseph Atule latched onto a deft pass from Akani Elijah to calmly slot home into the bottom corner, sending the Aba faithful into raptures.
Nasarawa United, however, clawed their way back into the game early in the second half, capitalizing on defensive lapses to allow league top scorer, Anas Yusuf to equalize.
But the visitors’ joy was short-lived as Brown Ideye, introduced off the bench, struck decisively in the 60th minute to restore Enyimba’s lead with a well-taken effort.
Speaking after the match, Coach Eguma, whose appointment has brought a fresh wave of optimism, struck a measured tone, acknowledging the progress made while emphasizing the need for continued improvement.
“Since we began, we have been rebuilding, so it’s not yet uhuru; it’s not yet time for celebration,” Eguma told journalists. “I think a lot has to be done in the team. I thank the management for giving me the opportunity to rebuild.”
Eguma lauded his players’ efforts and assured fans that the team’s rebuilding process is on track. “I’m happy the players are giving me maximum cooperation. I can assure you they are doing well, though some are yet to meet up. Injuries have also troubled the team, but we’ll work hard to get the injured players back and harness the squad to create what we can call a perfect team.”
Addressing the possibility of reinforcements during the transfer window, Eguma said, “When we say we are rebuilding, it doesn’t mean we throw away our players, but it’s about orientation, new tactics, and a new philosophy. However, with the window open, we may use it to fill some loopholes in the team.”
The experienced tactician also expressed optimism about Enyimba’s title aspirations despite their mid-table struggles. “The league is open. We have more than 19 games to play, so why can’t we be optimistic? The fans should trust the process. We’ve come to do the job and won’t let them down. They are hardworking and supportive, and we’ll work hard to leave a good legacy.”
Enyimba’s back-to-back victories in league and continental action have reignited hopes for a successful campaign. With Coach Eguma steering the ship, the People’s Elephant appear to be rediscovering the winning mentality that has defined their illustrious history.
Next up for the People’s Elephant is a continental game against Al Masry of Egypt in the CAF Confederations Cup group D match day 5 encounter at the Godswill Akpabio Int’l Stadium, Uyo on Sunday.
Source/Enyimba Media
