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Enyimba FC coach Yemi Olanrewaju candidly admitted on Monday that his team delivered a subpar performance against Sporting Lagos FC during the 2023/2024 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Match Day 37. The encounter ended in a 2-1 defeat for the People's Elephants, marking a disappointing turn of events after their previous draw.
Reflecting on the match, Olanrewaju acknowledged that Sporting Lagos deserved the victory, attributing it to their opponent's superior determination and tactical execution. He pointed out that the 'Noisy Lagosians', who are battling relegation, displayed more hunger and intensity on the field, which ultimately tilted the game in their favor.
"The breakdown we experienced after the Rangers game was quite disheartening, and unfortunately, we couldn't regain our mental composure," lamented Olanrewaju. "Our struggles were evident, especially in terms of mental toughness, which is crucial in such high-stakes matches."
Expressing disappointment in his team's performance, the coach emphasized that Enyimba FC did not exhibit the resilience and championship mentality expected of them. "I don't believe we deserved to win today because Sporting Lagos demonstrated a stronger desire to clinch the victory. This is not characteristic of a championship-winning team," he remarked.
Looking ahead to their final league fixture against Plateau United, Olanrewaju underscored the importance of securing a continental ticket. "Our focus now shifts entirely to the next match. It's our last opportunity to achieve our season's objective, and we cannot afford to underestimate the significance of this game," he stressed.
Acknowledging the pressure and expectations surrounding their upcoming match, the Enyimba gaffer emphasized the need for his team to approach the game with utmost seriousness and determination. "We cannot afford to gamble with our chances now. This match represents our last lifeline, and everyone understands the gravity of the situation. There can be no compromises—we must give everything we have to secure the crucial three points," he concluded with resolve.
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