Enyimba FC’s CAF Confederation Cup Hopes Hang in the Balance After Home Draw with Al Masry

By Paul Michael

Enyimba FC’s aspirations of advancing to the quarter-finals of the 2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup are on shaky ground following a 1-1 draw with Egyptian side Al Masry at the God’swill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

Both teams entered the penultimate group stage match requiring a win to bolster their chances of qualification from a highly competitive group. Al Masry drew first blood in the 8th minute, courtesy of Mohammed Hashem’s header past goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena. The visitors maintained their 0-1 lead until the halftime break, leaving the hosts under pressure to turn the game around.

Enyimba responded early in the second half, with Ifeanyi Ihemekwele restoring parity through a well-placed header. The goal set the tone for an intense end-to-end battle as both sides pushed for a decisive winner.

The tension reached a boiling point in the final quarter of the game when Enyimba skipper Alalibo Somiari conceded a penalty by fouling an Al Masry attacker in the box. However, goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena emerged as the hero, denying the Egyptians from the spot to keep Enyimba’s hopes alive.

Seeking a winner, Enyimba introduced experienced forward and 2013 AFCON winner Brown Ideye, whose presence added urgency to the attack. Despite the spirited efforts, the People’s Elephants were unable to break through Al Masry’s resilient defense, and the game ended 1-1.

The result leaves Enyimba in a precarious position, with Zamalek SC of Egypt having already secured the top spot in the group and a quarter-final berth following their 1-3 away win over Mozambique’s Black Bulls. With one matchday remaining, Al Masry sits second with six points, followed by Enyimba on five and Black Bulls on four.

To qualify, Enyimba must secure victory against group leaders Zamalek in Cairo on the final matchday, while hoping Black Bulls can deny Al Masry a win in Egypt. The stage is set for a dramatic conclusion to the group phase as Enyimba fights to keep their CAF Confederation Cup dreams alive.

Current Group Standings:
1. Zamalek SC (Egypt) – 9 points
2. Al Masry (Egypt) – 6 points
3. Enyimba FC (Nigeria) – 5 points
4. Black Bulls (Mozambique) – 4 points

Next Matchday:
– Enyimba FC vs. Zamalek SC (Cairo)
– Al Masry vs. Black Bulls (Egypt)

Will Enyimba FC be able to overcome the odds and secure a quarter-final spot? The suspense continues…