Enyimba head coach Stanley Eguma knows the task ahead. As the People’s Elephant prepare for a traditional Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) showdown with Bendel Insurance, the coach has admitted that managing his new squad has been a challenge but insists they are ready to deliver in front of their home fans.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s encounter, Stanley Eguma emphasised the importance of the fixture, calling it a battle between two historic sides in Nigerian football.
Stanley Eguma confident despite squad challenge
The former Rivers United boss, who is in his second season with the Aba-based team after leaving the Garden City side, admitted that building a stable team has not been easy.
“I think we are ready for tomorrow’s game (Sunday); it’s a big match. Enyimba FC and Insurance are both traditional teams that have represented Nigeria well.
“So far, we are trying to consolidate our position on the log. You know it’s not easy getting to the top spot; every team is trying to work on their team and get that stabilisation.
“Because we have a lot of new players joining this season, it becomes a little bit difficult, but for tomorrow’s game we are ready, and the boys are in high spirits.”
Despite those challenges, Eguma stressed that his side’s strong showing in Yenagoa last weekend has boosted confidence heading into this clash.
“After posting a good outing in Yenagoa, we are optimistic about getting the job done tomorrow (Sunday), and we need over a hundred per cent concentration to achieve it.”
Team skipper Ufere rallies the squad
Enyimba stand-in captain, Ufere Chinedu, didn’t hide his feelings either. The midfielder, formerly of Sporting Lagos, pointed to last season’s draw with Insurance in Aba as extra motivation.
“Yeah, tomorrow against Insurance is a crucial game for us, especially after drawing them here last season.
“We have used that experience to fuel our preparation. Our commitment to improve has been remarkable, and we have worked tirelessly for this moment.
“We are confident in our ability to execute our plan effectively. It’s more than a match for us because it’s an opportunity to maintain our unbeaten run and solidify our position on the log.
“We are going all out for the maximum points, as we can’t afford to drop any other point at home.”
The Aba Elephant and Insurance share one of Nigerian football’s most traditional rivalries.
In their last nine meetings, Insurance have two wins, and Enyimba only one, with six matches ending in stalemates.
That history will obviously add weight to Sunday’s clash, as Eguma and his boys look to shift momentum in their favour.
Leave a comment