..Eguma Eyes Final After Hard-Fought Victory
It took the solitary goal from Christian Nnaji to have Enyimba Football Club in the round of 16 of the ongoing President Cup.
Christian Nnaji finally broke his goal drought in emphatic fashion, scoring the decisive goal as Enyimba knocked out defending champions Elkanemi Warriors in a pulsating Round of 32 encounter at the Bwari Stadium, Abuja.
The long-awaited goal came in the 27th minute, courtesy of Enyimba’s relentless high press that forced an error in Elkanemi’s backline.
Nnaji capitalized on the opportunity, firing home a clinical strike that ultimately sealed the Aba giants’ passage to the next round.
A visibly elated Nnaji expressed his delight in an exclusive chat with Enyimba Media, admitting that his unwavering hard work and persistence had finally paid off.
“Yeah, for me, I feel so happy after the long-awaited goal. I’m excited,” Nnaji said. “I just want the fans to keep believing in us, and we will keep making them happy because in a team, no matter the situation, the supporters are the pillar of every success.”
The forward, who had endured a frustrating spell in front of goal, admitted that the near misses had been troubling, but he never lost faith in his abilities.
“Well, I was a little bit disturbed when the misses kept coming, but I knew the goal would come because I have been working hard. In a match, chances will always come, and I just had to keep believing,” he added.
Meanwhile, Enyimba’s head coach, Stanley Eguma, was full of praise for his striker, lauding his perseverance and work ethic.
“Yeah, personally, I’m happy for Nnaji because he has worked so hard and hasn’t been lucky in front of goal,” Eguma remarked. “This goal will boost his confidence, and I believe it will inspire him to work harder and convert more chances in the coming games.”
The seasoned tactician also acknowledged the intensity of the clash, hailing Elkanemi Warriors for playing like true defending champions. However, he reiterated his team’s determination to take it one game at a time as they set their sights on the final.
“We will keep pushing after this hard-fought win over Elkanemi until we reach the final and, hopefully, win the trophy,” Eguma said with determination.
Looking ahead, Eguma also turned his attention to Enyimba’s upcoming Abia derby in the league, stating that the team will return home and prepare thoroughly for the crucial encounter.
With confidence soaring and momentum on their side, Enyimba will now face Abakaliki FC of Ebonyi State in the Round of 16 later this month, as their quest for cup glory continues.
Source/Enyimba Media
