Enyimba FC secured their second win of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season with a 2-1 victory over Lobi Stars in a rescheduled Matchday 2 fixture at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba. The victory comes hot on the heels of Enyimba’s recent qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup Group Stage after a dramatic penalty shootout win against Etoile Filante.
The People’s Elephant, buoyed by their continental success, wasted little time in asserting their dominance.
Just 13 minutes into the match, Ufere Chinedu broke the deadlock with a composed finish, sending the home crowd into raptures.
The early goal set the tone for a commanding first-half display from the reigning NPFL champions.
Their lead was doubled only two minutes later, with Eze Ekwutoziam converting from the penalty spot.
The decision came after a clumsy challenge inside the box, and Ekwutoziam made no mistake, calmly slotting the ball past the Lobi Stars goalkeeper to give the home side a 2-0 cushion.
Enyimba continued to press forward with intent, and nearly extended their lead to 3-0 in the 26th minute.
A well-orchestrated build-up from the back saw Clinton Jephta unleash a powerful shot, only to be denied by a fine save from the Lobi Stars goalkeeper, who prevented what looked to be a certain goal.
However, Lobi Stars found a way back into the game before halftime.
In the 37th minute, Waheed Adebayo rose highest to meet a well-delivered cross, heading the ball into the net to reduce the deficit to 2-1.
The goal injected some life into the visitors as they went into the break trailing by just one goal.
Despite their fightback late in the first half, Lobi Stars struggled to find an equalizer after the break.
Enyimba, determined to protect their lead, tightened up defensively and controlled the tempo of the game, preventing Lobi Stars from creating any significant chances.
The second half saw fewer opportunities for either side, with both teams failing to add to the scoreline.
Enyimba remained in control of possession for much of the half, while Lobi Stars pressed in search of a leveller but lacked the cutting edge in front of goal.
With this victory, Enyimba not only maintained their strong start to the NPFL season but also built on the momentum from their recent CAF Confederation Cup qualification.
The result solidifies their position as early contenders for the NPFL title, while Lobi Stars will look to regroup as they continue their campaign.
Enyimba will now turn their attention to their upcoming fixtures, hoping to extend their winning run and continue their push for both domestic and continental success.
