Enyimba International FC secured a commanding 4-2 victory over Shooting Stars Sports Club in a rescheduled Matchday 2 contest of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Wednesday at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba. The nine-time NPFL champions delivered an impressive attacking display, finally claiming their first three points of the season with authority. Enyimba’s offensive prowess proved decisive, capitalizing ruthlessly on every defensive lapse from their opponents.
The People’s Elephants opened the scoring in the 6th minute when Richard Ezinna exploited a Shooting Stars defensive error to finish clinically and ignite the home crowd’s enthusiasm. This early goal set the tone for Enyimba's dominant performance throughout the match. The team's confidence grew with each passing minute, as they continued to create scoring opportunities.
Enyimba extended their advantage to 2-0 in the 28th minute following Obichere Odinaka’s corner delivery. Chibueze Damian received the deflection and executed a remarkable long-range effort for his inaugural Enyimba goal. The hosts increased their lead to 3-0 in the 36th minute through coordinated team play, with Chibueze Damian providing an incisive long-range pass to Odinaka Obichere, who subsequently set up Idris Abubakar to convert his maiden NPFL goal.
Enyimba maintained their commanding performance after halftime, reaching 4-0 in the 49th minute. Winger William Wonah executed a dynamic solo run past Victor Sochima before assisting Ifeanyi Ihemekwele, who completed an easy finish for his first goal in eight months with Enyimba. This goal further solidified Enyimba's control over the match.
Shooting Stars mounted a late comeback attempt, with substitute players Adams Mustapha and Atule Johnmark scoring consolation goals in the 76th and 89th minutes respectively. Nevertheless, Enyimba’s substantial lead proved insurmountable, securing a well-earned 4-2 triumph. This victory marked a significant turning point for Enyimba, who had been working tirelessly to secure their first win of the season.
Enyimba assistant coach, Ejeh Okechukwu expressed delight after the People’s Elephants secured their first win of the season. He attributed the team's success to their hard work on goal scoring, acknowledging that previous losses were largely due to their inability to convert chances. Okechukwu also recognized that there is still work to be done defensively, as Enyimba conceded two goals in the match.
Looking ahead to the next fixture against Plateau United, Okechukwu called on the fans for continued support. He emphasized that the team is still a work in progress and urged fans to exercise patience, assuring them that with their backing, Enyimba will get it right and become a near-perfect team. The victory has boosted the team's morale, and they are expected to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches.
Key points
- Enyimba International FC secured their first win of the season with a 4-2 victory over Shooting Stars Sports Club.
- The team's assistant coach, Ejeh Okechukwu, attributed the win to their hard work on goal scoring.
- Enyimba will face Plateau United in their next fixture, with Okechukwu urging fans to continue their support.
