Nigeria’s Enyimba FC have departed for Egypt with hopes of securing a positive result in their opening Group D match of the CAF Confederation Cup against Al Masry on Wednesday. The team, led by coach Yemi Olanrewaju, is determined to re-establish its dominance in African football despite being placed in a challenging group alongside defending champions Zamalek, Al Masry, and Mozambique’s Black Bulls.
Speaking to the club’s media team, Olanrewaju embraced the underdog tag, stating, “This is Enyimba FC, and we want to progress.
I’m happy when people see Al Masry and Zamalek as the favourites.
It allows us to stay focused and deliver on the pitch.
He emphasized that the rigorous preparations in Uyo, designed to simulate playing conditions in Egypt, have boosted the team’s readiness.
Enyimba remains Nigeria’s last representative in the 2024/25 CAF inter-club competitions after other Nigerian teams were eliminated in earlier rounds.
Their next two Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) fixtures have been postponed to prioritize their continental campaign.
Sporting Director Ifeanyi Ekwueme lauded club chairman Nwankwo Kanu for his strategic leadership.
Ekwueme noted that Kanu ensured early travel arrangements, allowing the team time to adapt to the Egyptian climate.
Furthermore, Kanu boosted morale by facilitating the payment of outstanding bonuses, creating an environment conducive to success.
The match at Port Said promises to test Enyimba’s resilience and preparation, with the club’s rich history as two-time African champions serving as inspiration for the journey ahead.
