Enyimba FC will be out for blood later today when they take on fierce rivals, Rivers United, in what is undoubtedly the headline fixture of NPFL Matchday 24.
The Enyimba International Stadium in Aba will be the battleground for this high-stakes South-East, South-South Derby, with the NPFL 9-time champions desperate to avenge their first-leg defeat and rescue their faltering campaign.
The stakes couldn’t be higher for the People’s Elephant, who are currently in mid-table—an unfamiliar and uncomfortable territory for a club of their stature.
With their quest for another stint at the continent hanging by a thread, Enyimba knows that anything short of victory could further dent their aspirations. Their opponents, Rivers United, have been far more consistent this season, sitting comfortably in third place and eyeing a potential push for the top spot.
Enyimba’s head coach, Stanley Eguma, cut a frustrated figure after their midweek loss to Bendel Insurance in Benin. But despite the setback, the experienced tactician remains defiant, assuring fans that his team will fight tooth and nail to claim maximum points against Rivers United.
“It was a tough result to take in Benin, but we must put that behind us. Against Rivers United, we will give our all for the three points. It’s a crucial game, and we have to rise to the occasion,” Eguma declared.
The added twist to this highly anticipated clash is the presence of Rivers United’s head coach, Finidi George, who led Enyimba to the NPFL title last two season before making a shocking switch to Port Harcourt. This subplot adds extra spice to an already fierce rivalry, with the Aba faithful eager to see their former gaffer leave empty-handed.
Enyimba’s struggles this season have largely been down to inconsistency, and their lack of firepower in front of goal has cost them crucial points. However, with pride and revenge on the line, they will be banking on home advantage, inclusion of new signings as well as return of ex-Super Eagles Striker, Brown Ideye to tilt the balance in their favour. Rivers United, on the other hand, will be confident of completing a double over their hosts after securing a 2-0 victory in the first-leg meeting in Port Harcourt.
A win for Enyimba would not only be a statement of intent but could serve as the turning point they desperately need in the campaign. On the flip side, another setback could leave their hopes of defending their crown in tatters.
With Startimes set to broadcast the clash live, NPFL fans are in for a thrilling contest as Enyimba fights for redemption while Rivers United seeks to tighten their grip on the top three.
It however gets very interesting for the Fans in Aba giving that the Chairman, Kanu Papilo’ Nwankwo has graciously granted free gate for the encounter to propel the People’s Elephant roar back to life.
Source/Enyimba Media
