NPFL giants Enyimba have once again faltered on African soil, suffering their 9th consecutive away defeat to Egyptian clubs after a dismal and disappointing 3-1 loss to Zamalek in CAF Confederation Cup.
The result marks another painful chapter in their continental campaign, leaving many wondering where it all went wrong this time around fo the former continental champions in this crucial match, Footballrover reports.
Zamalek’s dominance in Cairo: A dismal outcome for Enyimba
In a crucial final group-stage match of the CAF Confederation Cup, Enyimba’s hopes were dashed in Cairo on Sunday.
The game was a must-win for the Nigerian side, but they fell short in the face of stiff opposition from defending champions Zamalek SC.
Zamalek took control early, with Shalabi giving the hosts a 1-0 lead in the 29th minute. Just after halftime, in the 48th minute, Jaziri doubled their advantage.
The People’s Elephant responded quickly, with Ifeanyi Ihemekwele scoring in the 57th minute to narrow the gap to 2-1.
This goal made Ihemekwele the first NPFL player to score in four different continental matches in a single season, a rare achievement last achieved by Victor Mbaoma in the 2020/21 campaign.
Despite this moment of hope, Jaziri sealed Zamalek’s victory with his second goal of the match in the 87th minute, leaving Enyimba to reflect on yet another failure in Egypt.
The defeat meant Enyimba finished outside the top two in their group, thus eliminating them from the competition at the group stage.
Enyimba’s 9th away defeat to Egyptian clubs marks a painful exit
The loss to Zamalek represents the Aba-based team’s 9th consecutive away defeat to Egyptian clubs in continental competitions.
This painful setback leaves the NPFL side with much to consider as they prepare for future campaigns.
However, despite this disappointing performance, Nigeria has retained its four continental slots for next season, ensuring more future participation by NPFL teams in African club football.
As a result of this loss, Enyimba finished third in their group, while Stade Malien dropped to fourth following the 1-0 defeat to CD Lunda.
With the CAF coefficient standings in play, Nigeria now holds the 12th spot, while Mali slides to 13th.
The top 12 nations will provide the four teams for continental competitions in the upcoming season.
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