Yesterday at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos was a night of mixed emotions for Enyimba FC striker, Mujeeb Odufeso, as he marked his first league goal for the club in a 2-2 draw against Ikorodu City
Odufeso, who had endured a frustrating first half of the season due to injury, finally made his mark after being introduced in the second half.
The powerful forward made an instant impact, latching onto a well-timed pass from Nweke Kalu, rounding the goalkeeper, and slotting into an empty net to level the game for the People’s Elephant.
However, despite Enyimba’s spirited comeback, their hopes of securing all three points were shattered in stoppage time when a mix up throwing allowed Ayomide Cole to snatch a dramatic equalizer for the ‘Oga Boys’ in the 98th minute.
Speaking after the match, an elated Odufeso could hardly hide his joy at scoring his first goal for the former champions.
“I’m excited scoring my first league goal for Enyimba FC. It’s a big one for me, and I thank my teammates for helping me achieve that,” he said with a beaming smile.
The striker also reflected on his struggles with injury and the journey back to full fitness.
“Ever since I got injured, it’s been up and down for me. It hasn’t been easy, but I thank God for giving me this hope in our game against Ikorodu City”
Despite the personal milestone, Odufeso admitted there was some disappointment in the Enyimba camp over the result.
“Yeah, my team would have loved to have all three points, but unfortunately, we got just one. We worked hard, but that’s football. Right now, we shift our attention to the President Cup on Wednesday, and then we focus on getting back to the continent with the remaining league games.”
The Enyimba star also took a moment to acknowledge the club’s management for securing a renewed partnership with United Nigeria Airline, a move he believes has significantly reduced the burden of long-distance travel.
“Yeah, again, we the players are happy with the management for bringing back the partnership with United Nigeria Airline. Air travel really helps reduce the stress of road journeys, and we truly appreciate their effort.”
The Aba giants must give credit to goalkeeper and CHAN Eagle’s safe hands, Ani Ozoemena whose heroic saves both in the first and second half of the game kept the team alive as well as Atule Joseph who has scored 3 goals in 3 straight League games (against Niger Tornadoes in Lafia, against El-Kanemi Warriors in Aba and Ikorodu City in Lagos) in a row.
Enyimba currently in Abuja en route Lafia as they turn their focus to the President Federation Cup, where they face El Shama FC of Gombe in the round of 64 on Wednesday.
