Yemi Olanrewaju, the 32-year-old coach of Enyimba FC, has praised his team’s impressive 3-1 comeback victory over Heartland FC in the Southeast derby of the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL). The win was significant as it came against Heartland’s legendary manager, Emmanuel Amuneke.
Enyimba had fallen behind in the first half after Lawal Suraju scored for Heartland in the 53rd minute. However, Olanrewaju’s side turned the game around in the second half with three unanswered goals, largely thanks to new signing Jeptha Clinton, who scored twice.
Olanrewaju, who took over from former coach Finidi George, highlighted the importance of starting the season positively. “It is important that we start on a good note,” he said in a video shared on Instagram by the club. “The three points are crucial for our confidence.”
He drew parallels between the match against Heartland and their upcoming challenges in the CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC), stating that the performance is indicative of what they will face in continental competition. “What happened against Heartland is a preview of what we will encounter in Mali (CAFCC),” he added.
With this win, Enyimba has set a strong precedent for their NPFL campaign and their continental venture. Olanrewaju emphasized the need to maintain focus and build on this momentum. “37 games more, this one is done and dusted. On to the next one,” he concluded.
MIKEL OBI REVEALS INVOLVEMENT IN VICTOR OSIMHEN’S FAILED CHELSEA TRANSFER
Former Super Eagles star John Obi-Mikel has revealed his involvement in the failed negotiations between Chelsea and Victor Osimhen. Despite Chelsea’s strong interest and multiple offers, they were unable to secure Osimhen’s transfer before the deadline.
Mikel Obi, speaking on the Obi One Podcast, confirmed his role in the discussions. “It’s an open secret that I was involved in trying to get Victor to Chelsea,” he said. Mikel emphasized his long-standing relationship with Osimhen and refuted claims of the striker being greedy.
Chelsea reportedly made six or seven offers to Osimhen, but they were unable to reach an agreement. The negotiations ended without a deal, leading to Osimhen joining Galatasaray on loan from Napoli in the summer of 2024.
Mikel expressed his disappointment over the failed transfer but remains supportive of Osimhen. Meanwhile, Osimhen has continued to make an impact, scoring his first goal of the season in Nigeria’s 3-0 win over Benin Republic.