Enyimba International FC continued their unbeaten run in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) with a spirited comeback victory against Bendel Insurance on Sunday at the Enyimba International Stadium, Aba.
Head coach Stanley Eguma, visibly emotional after the hard-fought win, dedicated the triumph to Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, and to the memory of his late mother who recently passed on.
“This victory is for our very supportive Governor and for my mother’s memory,” Eguma told Enyimba Media. “It’s been a tough few days personally, but football gives us strength, and I am proud of the boys for their character.”
A Fierce Rivalry Rekindled
The match lived up to expectations as both traditional sides showed grit and quality. Bendel Insurance stunned the Aba crowd early, with Chinedu Nwosu heading home in the 3rd minute from a corner.
Enyimba responded midway through the first half when Joseph Abiodun grabbed his second goal in four matches, nodding in after Mohammed Hussani’s free kick rattled the post.
The visitors struck again in the 59th minute through Wisdom Udoh, who reacted quickest after goalkeeper Kelvin Ogunga’s penalty save. But the People’s Elephant roared back. Captain Kalu Nweke coolly converted a penalty to level the game, before teenage sensation Chidera Michael sealed the comeback with a composed finish in the 69th minute after a slick attacking move.
“Never Say Die” Spirit
Eguma praised his players’ resilience against a youthful Insurance side, highlighting the long-standing rivalry between both clubs.
“It was a tough one and I commend my players for responding well,” he said. “Insurance gave us a scare from the third minute, but my boys showed character to come back twice and eventually win. That’s the Enyimba spirit never say die.”
He also lauded Governor Otti for his unwavering support, urging fans and stakeholders to remain solidly behind the team as they chase another successful season.
Insurance Coach Admits Lapses
On the other end, Bendel Insurance coach Greg Ikhanoba admitted his side lost focus at crucial moments, allowing Enyimba to turn the game around.
“Of course, Enyimba are a good, tough side number one in Nigeria and among Africa’s best,” Ikhanoba said. “We lost concentration, and they punished us. But we’ll correct our lapses before the next fixture.”
What’s Next
With the 3rd win, Enyimba remain top of the NPFL standings on 11 points. They now shift focus to a Matchday Six clash against Ikorodu City FC in Lagos next Sunday.
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