Good morning, Enyimba family!
It’s a fresh new week, and if you missed yesterday’s blog, you’ll want to revisit that first paragraph. Having gone three games without a win, the mission yesterday was clear – Just win. The performance isn’t that important – we just needed to get back to winning ways. And by full time, the team delivered a heart-pounding spectacle that made every moment worthwhile.
Ifeanyi Ihemekwele struck early against Ikorodu City, and the fans in the stands responded – joy and elation. Scoring an early goal as an Enyimba fan feels like a sign of what’s to come—a walk in the park, a flurry of goals, a statement win. We’re used to this club putting away games decisively when they get an early lead. But Ikorodu City, the “Oga Boys” who had been previously losing to anyone infront of them, felt this was their turf to display their resurgence. These youngsters came in prepared, holding firm and keeping the game tense, right there in our shadow, ready to pounce on any opportunity.
As time ticked closer to the final whistle, we held our breath, still hoping for that comfortable cushion. But with about 90 seconds left on the clock, in a twist no one wanted, Toyeeb toyed with our hearts, delivering an equalizer that sent shockwaves through the stadium. Hearts collectively dropped—those in the stands, those on the streets of Aba, and everywhere else, fans followed the game with bated breath. It was the ultimate rollercoaster moment of despair and hope, a classic reminder that nothing is guaranteed in football until the final whistle.
But our boys weren’t done. Just about five minutes later and well into stoppage time, like a hero emerging from nowhere, our very own “Moses” Adiukwu rose high to nod in the winner. He parted the sea of tension and guided us to those precious three points. The stadium shook with a roar of relief, pride, and triumph as the fans erupted in celebration. Aba was alive with joy as we claimed the victory in a moment that won’t be forgotten anytime soon. The pure elation from the fans and the look of victory on the players’ faces said it all—this was more than just three points; it was a triumph of resilience.
Massive credit to Ikorodu City and their interim coach Nurudeen Aweroro—they came prepared, and they gave us one of the season’s biggest fights. This is a team that’s proving its potential, and they reminded us that there are no easy games. But these big Elephants don’t go down easy, especially not to the Lagos “boys.” Just ask MFM FC and Sporting Lagos, who’ve learned the hard way that points rarely leave Aba.
And let’s not forget to give a shoutout to our very own Clinton Jephtha, who continues to make us proud as he inspired Nigeria’s U20s to victory. His brace secured a 3-1 win over Niger, sending our nation to the U20 AFCON. Three goals in three matches—he’s on fire, and he’s showing the world what talent is all about. It’s clear we’ve got a future star in our ranks, and we’re excited to see what’s next for him.
So let’s take a moment to truly savor this victory. After three games without a win, this one feels especially sweet, like a reminder of what we’re capable of when we come together and give it our all. Here’s to more moments like these, and to the journey ahead.
We’ll be back tomorrow, still riding high on the thrill of this win!
Enyimba Enyi