In a pulsating NPFL Oriental Derby that lived up to its billing, Enyimba FC dug deep to snatch a dramatic 2-1 victory over fierce but sister rivals Abia Warriors in front of a packed house at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba, on Sunday.
The Matchday 32 encounter had all the makings of a classic – passion, quality football, big moments, and a touch of political presence, as the Deputy Governor of Abia State, Hon Ikechukwu Emetu, and the State Commissioner for Sports, Hon Nwaobilor Ananaba, graced the occasion. And the teams didn’t disappoint.
It was Abia Warriors who struck first, silencing the Aba faithful in the 21st minute through a composed finish by Antoine Ijoma. But Enyimba, driven by pride and the weight of their pedigree, roared back into the contest. In-form winger Kalu Nweke – who tormented the Warriors’ backline all game – delivered a moment of magic in the 36th minute, curling home a sublime equalizer that set the stadium alight.
The People’s Elephant completed the comeback in the 66th minute through red-hot striker Joseph Atule, whose clinical finish sealed the bragging rights for the 9 time NPFL champions in one of the most entertaining fixtures of the season.
Despite the triumph, the victory came at a cost as Enyimba’s reliable shot-stopper Ani Ozoemena suffered an early injury, forcing a swift substitution with deputy keeper Zali Abdullahi stepping in to steady the ship.
Head coach Stanley Eguma was full of praise for his team’s resilience and tactical discipline, describing the match as a true advert for the Nigeria Premier Football League.
“It was a difficult match, and both teams came with great tactical approaches,” Eguma stated post-match. “They had more possession, but we executed our transitions perfectly for the goals. It was a brilliant game overall.”
Eguma, however, quickly shifted focus from the derby buzz to a bigger picture – Enyimba’s chase for a continental ticket.
“The league is far from over. We’re not ruling ourselves out of anything,” he insisted. “Management is doing their best to motivate the team, and the boys are hungry to make a name for themselves. We’re pushing hard for a top-three finish and aiming for success in either the league or the Federation Cup.”
The highlight of the evening undoubtedly belonged to the electric Kalu Nweke, whose relentless pace and creativity saw him crowned the Enyimba-NBL Man of the Match. The winger was later rewarded with a symbolic cheque of N150,000 during the post-match fanfest at Tigar Bar on Aba-Owerri Road.
With the win, Enyimba climb to 8th place on the table with 46 points, keeping their continental hopes alive, while Abia Warriors remain in third on 50 points.
Up next for Eguma’s rejuvenated side is a crucial away trip to Ijebu Ode where they’ll face Sunshine Stars in a Matchday 33 showdown that could further shape the title and continental race.
The chase is on, and the Elephants are charging.