NPFL: Enyinma hopes to shock Rangers in potential title decider in Enugu on Sunday
Enyimba is gearing up to take on Rangers International FC in one of the most decisive Oriental derbies of recent history, and Coach Yemi ‘Yema’ Daniel is confident that his team has what it takes to come out on top.
“It’s a league decider and we’re going to Enugu to have fun, enjoy our game, stick to the game plan, and the focus would be on us,” Yema said in a pre-match interview.
“We’ve worked tirelessly to perfect our strategy, and I have every faith in my players. We’re ready to put on a show!”
The People’s Elephants are riding high on the back of an impressive 4-1 win over Rivers United in their previous match, and Yema believes that his team’s momentum will carry them through to victory in Enugu.
“The boys are in high spirits, and we’re all looking forward to the challenge,” he added.
Enyimba’s players are equally confident, with team stand-in captain Paschal Eze saying, “We’re ready to give it our all and make our fans proud. We know it won’t be an easy match, but we’re prepared to battle for the three points. We’ve been working hard as a team and we’re ready.”
Yema also confirmed that key players Daniel Daga and Anthony Okachi have returned to the team after recovering from injuries.
“Having Daga and Okachi back is a huge boost for us. They’re both exceptional players who bring a lot of quality to our team. We’re glad to have them back in the fold.”
He further emphasized the importance of sticking to the game plan, saying, “We need to stay disciplined and focused. The focus is on us and not them. We need to stick to our plan, move the ball quickly, and create scoring opportunities.”
The team’s top scorer, Chijioke Mbaoma, is also relishing the prospect of facing Rangers. “I’m in top form right now, and I’m confident that I can get on the scoreboard again.
We’re all hungry for victory, and we won’t let anything stand in our way. We’ll stick to the plan, work together, and make sure we get the three points.”
The reverse fixture in Aba ended in a 1-1 draw, with Chijioke Mbaoma scoring for Enyimba and Kazeem Ogunleye equalizing for Rangers.
The match kicks off at 5 pm on Sunday, June 9, at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.
Enyimba fuelled their title chances with the resounding 4-1 victory over Rivers United at the Enyimba Stadium last Sunday.
In a match that marked the beginning of Yemi ‘Yema‘ Olanrewaju’s reign as interim head coach, the People’s Elephant showcased dominance, displaying a masterclass performance that left their opponents gasping for breath.
The win has kept Enyimba within touching distance of leaders, Rangers International, with the defending champions just two points adrift.
No doubt that the win has boosted Enyimba’s title hopes, and the performances has pumped up the confidence of the team going into Sunday’s potential title decider against the league leaders.
As the final stretch of the season beckons, Yema’s side must hold their breath in the last four fixtures. While they are expected to bag maximum points in the home matches against Bayelsa United and Plateau United, the real test for the team will be this weekend’s top-of-the-table clash in Enugu, as well as the penultimate game week of the season against relegation-beleaguered Sporting Lagos at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
