Enyimba FC endured a tough start to their CAF Confederation Cup group stage campaign, succumbing to a 2-0 loss against Egypt’s Al Masry at the Suez Canal Stadium in Port Said on Wednesday.
The Nigerian champions were undone by an inspired performance from Mahmoud Hamada, who netted twice to secure the win for the hosts. Hamada struck early, finding the back of the net in the 8th minute to put Al Masry ahead. He sealed his brace in the 74th minute, capitalizing on defensive lapses to double the lead.
Despite the defeat, Enyimba’s goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena emerged as a bright spot, making several crucial saves in the second half to prevent the scoreline from worsening. His efforts kept the visitors within touching distance, but Enyimba’s attack failed to muster the cutting edge needed to stage a comeback.
The People’s Elephant will now shift their focus to their next fixture, where they face reigning champions Zamalek, also from Egypt, in Aba on December 8.
With three points crucial to keeping their qualification hopes alive, Enyimba will need to regroup and deliver a stronger performance at home.
The loss leaves Enyimba with an uphill battle in Group D, as they aim to compete with some of the toughest teams on the continent.
