Enyimba FC’s shot-stopper, Zali Abdullahi, has issued a stern warning to all Federation Cup challengers, declaring that the nine-time NPFL champions will approach every game like a final in their quest to reclaim the prestigious trophy.
As the People’s Elephant gear up for their round of 64 showdown against Elshama FC of Gombe at the Lafia City Stadium on Wednesday morning, Zali, who serves as deputy to first-choice keeper Ani Ozoemena, made it clear that Enyimba will not take their lower-division opponents lightly.
“Yeah, concerning the Federation Cup, we won’t take any game for granted. We will treat every game like the league and as a final,” the former Doma United FC goalkeeper emphasized in a chat with Enyimba Media.
Zali, who is familiar with the playing style of teams from Gombe, believes Elshama FC will be highly motivated against Enyimba but insists the People’s Elephant are more than ready to stamp their authority.
“I have been in Gombe for three years, I know how they play, and we will treat them very seriously. It won’t be that easy because we know they will try to be at their best hearing the name Enyimba.”
With a burning desire to bring home the Federation Cup for the Abia State Governor, club management, and the fans, Zali is confident that this year’s campaign will not end in heartbreak.
“We will play them like we are playing in the final, and we promise the People’s Elephant this year won’t be like the other year. Enyimba will be in the final of this year’s Federation Cup, and we will emerge champions!” he vowed.
The clash between NPFL giants Enyimba and NLO underdogs Elshama marks the first-ever meeting between both sides in all competitions. With a ticket to the round of 32 at stake, all eyes will be on the Lafia City Stadium to see if Enyimba will march on or if Elshama can pull off a historic upset.
Kickoff is set for 8 AM, and the battle lines are drawn—Enyimba’s road to glory starts now!
