The Abia Classico: Abia Warriors v Enyimba

Greetings Good People. It is that time of the Year again. A dream NPFL Weekend.

A weekend of NPFL drama. Mouthwatering clashes are scattered across the league, from the Southwest derby in Lagos where Ikorodu City face Shooting Stars, to the table-topping battle in Ikenne between Remo Stars and Rivers United. Oh, and there’s the ancestor showdown in Enugu as Rangers host Bendel Insurance. But let’s be real—the spotlight shines brightest on Umuahia, where the Abia Derby takes center stage.

In the Red corner are the hosts – Abia Warriors, the small boys of Umuahia as we fondly call them here on the blog. A tag they have very well earned. That notwitstanding, the do deserve some respect – having dodgedly affirmed their position as a League regular. They have made themselves a main stay in the League, refusing to get relegated since they got into the top flight. And in the blue corner, Enyimba FC – A club that literally needs no introduction.

Abia Warriors welcome us to their turf for what promises to be a very fiery encounter. This isn’t just football; it’s sibling rivalry on steroids. Yes, we’re the big brothers—the elder statesmen with the trophies, legacy, and sheer pedigree to match. But here’s the thing about little siblings: they don’t always play by the rules. They’ll kick, claw, and hustle to upset the family hierarchy. And while we know who the true kings of Abia are, we can’t afford even a moment of complacency.

This derby is always a feisty affair. Respect? Warriors have none when it comes to this fixture, and we’ve learned the hard way in State FA Cup finals where they thrive on making life difficult for us. From 4pm, it’s 90 minutes of pure intensity where focus, grit, and heart will decide the outcome. Maximum points are non-negotiable.

Yema, take note. Whatever you’ve experienced in Umuahia before is child’s play compared to what’s coming. The stands will be packed with fans—many traveling from Aba to turn the Umuahia Township Stadium into an away ground for the hosts. The pressure will be suffocating. The bench will feel like a sauna for both Yema and Imama, and if the sun decides to crank up the heat, the players will need ice baths before halftime. This is the Alex Otti Abia Derby—it’s hot, it’s fierce, and it’s personal.

For our traveling faithful, let’s bring that trademark Enyimba hospitality. Remember, big brothers don’t just boast; they also exude grace while dishing out reality checks. We’ll respect Abia Warriors as the scrappy younger sibling they are, even as we put them in their place with clinical football. After all, actions speak louder than chants.

On a side note, we commiserate with our former goalkeeper and Super Eagles current number 1 on the death of his father, and also to the family of another former player of ours, Gift Atulewa, who lost his life this week to the cold hands of death. May they find the fortitude to bear such irreparable loses.

For now, buckle up—its gonna be wild from 4pm.

Enyimba Enyi!