2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 27: Our best not enough against Enyimba International FC, says Niger Tornadoes gaffer

Posted : 03 March 2025

Niger Tornadoes head coach, Majin Mohammed, has described his team's best efforts as not good enough against Enyimba International FC in their 2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 27 encounter.

The Ikon Allah Boys, currently playing their home games at the Lafia Township Stadium, suffered a narrow 0-1 loss to the nine-time champions, Enyimba International FC.

The team had to relocate to the Lafia Township Stadium after their traditional home ground, Bako Kotangora Stadium in Minna, was banned by the NPFL management due to poor pitch conditions.

Enyimba International FC secured victory with a well-crafted 62nd-minute goal from Joseph Atule, marking their third away triumph of the NPFL season and reaffirming their determination to reclaim dominance in the league.

Despite the loss, Niger Tornadoes coach, Majin Mohammed, praised his team for their efforts against Enyimba.

According to Majin, his players’ inability to convert their chances cost them the game against the People's Elephant of Aba.

"We dominated the first half but couldn't capitalize on our chances. In the second half, we aimed to maintain the same approach, but unfortunately, football doesn't always work that way. Enyimba took advantage of the only chance they had," Majin said.

Enyimba’s Sporting Director, Ifeanyi Ekwueme, also praised his team for their strong mentality and positive response following their recent setback in Aba.

“I am delighted with the players’ reaction after the unfortunate home draw against Shooting Stars,” Ekwueme told Enyimba Media.

“Their approach to this game was very positive, and I urge them to keep pushing because the league is far from over, with about 11 more games to go.”

As nine-time NPFL champions, Enyimba demonstrated their experience by controlling the tempo and effectively executing a counterattack to secure the win.

Atule’s goal came from a seamless one-two exchange between the returning Nnaji Christian and second-half substitute Quadri Olasunkanmi, allowing the forward to finish clinically inside the box.

Despite having chances to extend their lead—through Isah in the first half and both Awazie and Atule later on—Enyimba held firm to secure all three points.

Beyond the victory, the match carried extra significance for the team.

Ekwueme revealed that the win was dedicated to injured striker Ifeanyi Ihemekwele, who has been sidelined due to injury. Before kickoff, the Enyimba squad displayed his jersey in solidarity, a touching gesture that resonated deeply with the entire club.

“Most importantly, we dedicate this victory to our injured striker, Ifeanyi Ihemekwele,” Ekwueme said. “As you may have seen today, the players displayed his jersey before the game in his honor. On behalf of the Chairman, Kanu Nwankwo, the management, technical crew, and players, we wish him and others a quick recovery.”

With momentum back on their side, Enyimba will now shift focus to their next challenge—a crucial home fixture against El-Kanemi Warriors in Aba.

With 11 games remaining in the season, the People's Elephant know that every point is vital in their pursuit of league glory.

2024/2025 NPFL Match Day 27: Our best not enough against Enyimba International FC, says Niger Tornadoes gaffer

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