Enyimba in uphill task, face Zamalek in Cairo

It appears a huge task, but players and officials of Enyimba FC believe their CAF Confederation Cup journey will be revived on Sunday in Cairo, Egypt.

After a disappointing draw against Al Masry in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State last week, Enyimba must secure all three points in their final Group D match against Egyptian powerhouse Zamalek to keep their quarter-final hopes alive.

The People’s Elephants are currently third in the group with five points, and face the daunting task of defeating the group leaders in Cairo while also hoping Al Masry fails to beat Black Bulls. It is a mathematical calculation many Nigerians are used to.

Their bad situation notwithstanding, former Super Eagles striker, Brown Ideye, is confident that the NPFL giants will pull off a decisive victory against Zamalek.

Ideye has pinpointed two crucial factors that could favour Enyimba in Cairo. To him, the early qualification of their host, Zamalek, could work in Enyimba’s favour.

Ideye, who was part of the Super Eagles’ AFCON title winning squad at South Africa 2013, returned to the NPFL a few months ago and pitched tent with the Aba giants.

He stated that the Egyptian champions might opt to rest key players, giving the Nigerian side an opening to exploit.

“It’s a must-win match for us. Zamalek is a strong team, but we are determined to secure the maximum points. They’ve already qualified for the next round and might rest some key players,” Ideye said.

Ideye also highlighted the motivational role of club chairman Nwankwo Kanu, whose recent address to the team has reignited belief in their ability to secure a crucial win.

The People’s Elephant previously held Zamalek to a 2-2 draw back in December, showing their ability to challenge the North African heavyweights.

This result, combined with Ideye’s leadership and experience, could lead Enyimba to upset the defending champions in a must-win match on Sunday.
—his game and has his parents to thank for their support.

“They have had to dedicate a lot of their time to [invest] in me, and I’m grateful for that. It is sort of paid off for them, so they are living happily ever after now.”