2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup: Enyimba International FC coach, Eguma, praises Ideye's contributions to team's first win

Posted : 07 January 2025

Enyimba International FC coach Stanley Eguma has praised the performance of the team's new signing, Brown Ideye, for his contributions to their first win in the 2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup Group Stage over Mozambique’s Associação Black Bulls FC.

The People’s Elephant displayed a commanding performance on Match Day 4 of the Group Stage, thrashing Associação Black Bulls FC at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

The Aba-based giants began with intent, showing urgency and determination to make a statement. Their relentless high pressing bore fruit early when the energetic Joseph Atule capitalized on a defensive lapse to slot home the opener.

However, the visitors responded swiftly, punishing a defensive error with a counter-attacking equalizer.

Enyimba remained unfazed. Their attacking quartet of Atule, Ekene Awazie, Ifeanyi Ihemekwele, and Akani Elijah overwhelmed the Maputo-based side. Ihemekwele restored the lead with a composed finish just before halftime, sending the home fans into jubilation.

The second half mirrored the first, with Enyimba dominating proceedings but missing several opportunities. Awazie and Atule were guilty of wasting clear-cut chances. However, the introduction of veteran forward Brown Ideye in the latter stages changed the game.

Ideye, making his continental debut for the team, showcased his quality by rounding the goalkeeper and scoring from an acute angle after a sublime through ball from Atule. Minutes later, Atule added his second of the night, calmly finishing after being set up by substitute Kalu Nweke to seal the emphatic victory.

Reflecting on the match, head coach Stanley Eguma, who recently took charge of the team, described the victory as a significant morale boost for the squad and a gift to Nigerian football fans.

“This result is like a New Year gift to Nigerians, who have been yearning for this kind of performance on the continent,” Eguma stated during his post-match press conference.

Eguma acknowledged the challenges he faced upon joining the team but emphasized the importance of fostering a winning mentality.

“When I joined the team a few days ago, what I met on the ground was not ideal. I’ve been on the continent and know what it takes to compete here. I spoke with management and highlighted areas for improvement. Despite injuries to key players, I worked with those available.”

The coach also commended Ideye’s impact, despite the striker still regaining full match fitness.

“Brown Ideye is a household name. His presence is a big boost for the team. Although he’s not yet fully fit, it’s a gradual process. He will contribute even more in the near future.”

Eguma praised the team’s adaptability, especially in the absence of key players, including holding midfielder Daniel Daga, who is heading to Europe.

“We had to improvise in the holding midfield position due to injuries and Daga’s absence. Innocent Gabriel, a center-back, stepped in and delivered. We’ve been able to raise our game and instill a winning mentality.”

The victory puts Enyimba back in contention in Group D. Their next challenge is a rescheduled NPFL match against Nasarawa United in Aba on Wednesday, followed by a must-win CAF Confederation Cup clash against Egypt’s Al Masry in Uyo on Sunday.

With renewed confidence and tactical adjustments under Coach Eguma, Enyimba is beginning to show signs of reclaiming their place as a powerhouse on the continental stage.

2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup: Enyimba International FC coach, Eguma, praises Ideye's contributions to team's first win

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