CAF Confederation Cup: Enyimba’s coach sure of quarterfinal ticket

The Chief Coach of Enyimba Football Club of Aba, Stanley Eguma, has confidently stated that the ‘People’s Elephant’ will secure the quarterfinal ticket available in Group D on Sunday as they play away to Zamalek of Egypt.

The team recently played to a 1-1 draw against Al Masry, another Egyptian side, in Uyo on Sunday.

The two-time CAF African Champions League winners had drawn against the Egyptian side in what was a must-win game, a result that has complicated their chances of advancing to the CAF Confederation Cup quarterfinals, which are based on a knockout format.

The former Rivers United coach expressed determination, saying the Aba Giants would give their best to ensure they progress beyond the group stage.

“It’s not the end of the road. We still have the next game to play,” Eguma stated in a post-match interview.

“If Al Masry can come here and play the game of their lives, then we can go to Egypt, and who knows what the outcome of the other games will be. We are still optimistic; it is not over until it is over.”

Enyimba moved to the third position in the group with five points following the stalemate, while group leader Zamalek, with 11 points after five games, remains at the top. Al Masry has six points from the same number of matches.

Enyimba is walking a tightrope as the People’s Elephant faces group leaders, Zamalek on Sunday for the final leg of the group stage.
Zamalek has already qualified for the quarterfinals after defeating the Black Bulls of Mozambique 3-1.

The second slot for the quarterfinals is now a battle between the Nigerian side and Al Masry, with Enyimba needing a win to advance.