Enyimba FC showed an outstanding display in the CAF Confederation Cup group stage with a stunning 4-1 victory over Mozambique’s Associação Black Blulls FC at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
The two-time African champions wasted no time imposing themselves, with Joseph Atule breaking the deadlock early on. However, the visitors responded swiftly, exploiting a defensive error to level the score.
Enyimba’s attacking quartet of Atule, Ekene Awazie, Ifeanyi Ihemekwele, and Akani Elijah dominated proceedings, and just before halftime, Ihemekwele restored the lead with a well-taken goal.
The second half saw Enyimba maintain their intensity, but missed opportunities from Awazie and Atule kept the game open. The introduction of veteran forward Brown Ideye late in the match proved decisive. Ideye marked his continental debut for Enyimba by rounding the goalkeeper to score from a tight angle, courtesy of a sublime assist from Atule. Moments later, Atule sealed the emphatic victory with his second goal of the night, set up by substitute Kalu Nweke.
Speaking after the match, head coach Stanley Eguma, who recently took charge of the team, described the victory as a morale boost and a “New Year gift to Nigerians.”
“This result is like a New Year gift to Nigerians because they’ve been yearning for this kind of result on the continent,” Eguma said.
The coach acknowledged the challenges he inherited but highlighted the team’s progress under his leadership.
“When I joined, there were issues I had to address immediately. Injuries to key players didn’t deter us. I had to work with what was available, and the players responded brilliantly.”
Eguma praised Brown Ideye’s impact, despite the striker still working on his fitness.
“Brown Ideye is a household name in Nigerian football. He’s not fully fit yet, but his experience is invaluable. In the near future, he’ll contribute even more to the team.”
Eguma also commended the adaptability of the squad, particularly Innocent Gabriel, who filled in as a holding midfielder in the absence of Daniel Daga.
The victory places Enyimba back in contention in Group D. Their next assignment is a rescheduled NPFL clash against Nasarawa United in Aba, followed by a must-win CAF Confederation Cup encounter against Egypt’s Al Masry in Uyo.
With renewed energy and Eguma’s tactical adjustments, Enyimba are positioning themselves as contenders once again on the continental stage.
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