Enyimba FC made a bold statement in their first win of the season, rallying from behind to secure a 3-1 victory over Heartland FC in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) opener.
This win marks the first time since 2012 that the Aba-based giants have scored three or more goals against Heartland, breaking a 12-year drought, Footballrover reports.
The match started with both teams on cautious footing, as a cagey first half ended in a 0-0 stalemate.
However, the second half brought all the action.
FT’ | Ifeanyi Ihemekwele equalizer and Clinton Jephta’s brace secures the 3 points
What a start 🪄
| 1-3 | #HEAENY #NPFL25 pic.twitter.com/pJT44s0L2W
— Enyimba FC (@EnyimbaFC) September 8, 2024
The hosts, Heartland, took the lead just eight minutes in when Suraju Lawal rounded the Enyimba goalkeeper and slotted home to give his side a 1-0 advantage.
Enyimba responded quickly. Substitute Ifeanyi Ihemekwele, on his debut, made an instant impact, scoring with his first touch of the game just 12 minutes after coming on to level the match.
His equaliser reignited Enyimba’s attack, and they began to dominate proceedings.
In the 70th minute, Clinton Jephta delivered a spectacular volley to put the visitors ahead for the first time in the match.
Heartland struggled to find a response, and as they pushed for an equaliser, Jephta struck again.
The Enyimba forward doubled his tally in the 83rd minute, securing his brace and sealing a 3-1 victory for the Big Elephants.
Despite Jephta’s commanding performance, he was substituted just before stoppage time, making way for Ani Chigozie to make his own debut.
The match ended 3-1, with Enyimba walking away with all three points.
Full Time pic.twitter.com/mXsPRAMU7J
— Heartland FC (@HeartlandFC_ng) September 8, 2024
Shortly after the game, Enyimba coach Yemi Olarenwaju expressed his satisfaction with the result, stating,
“It is important that we start on a good note. The three points are crucial for the team. 37 games up, this one is done and dusted.”
Enyimba’s triumph over Heartland marks a perfect start to their NPFL campaign, one they will look to build on as the season progresses.
According to the Aba Boys,
“Ofe Owerri sweet, but our football sweeter. We chop am like Akpu! Una bring ‘Ofe Owerri’, we bring goals.”
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