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Stanley Eguma, the Head Coach of Enyimba, has firmly set his sights on winning the 2025 President Federation Cup after the People’s Elephant defeated title holders, El-Kanemi Warriors in the Round of 32 on Wednesday, Completesports.com reports.
Christian Nnaji scored the decisive goal in the 27th minute of the match at the Bwari Stadium, Abuja. It was Nnaji’s first goal for the People’s Elephant in a long while as the Stanley Eguma side continue their hunt for a fifth President Federation Cup win.
Wednesday’s win sets up an Oriental Derby Clash between the two-time African Champions and Abakaliki FC in the Round of 16.
“We will keep pushing after this hard-fought win over El-kanemi Warriors until we reach the final and, hopefully, win the trophy,” Eguma said.
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The former Rivers United Manager was full of praise for his striker, Christian Nnaji, eulogising his perseverance and high work ethic.
“Personally, I’m happy for Nnaji because he has worked so hard though he hasn’t been lucky in front of goal. This goal will boost his confidence, and I believe it will inspire him to work harder and convert more chances in the coming games.”
Reflecting on the gritty contest, Eguma acknowledged the intensity of the game, praising El-kanemi Warriors for playing like true defending champions but reiterated his team’s determination to take it one game at a time as they set their sights on the final.
The match winner, Nnaji, was visibly elated as he expressed delight in scoring the only goal of the match, admitting that his hard work and persistence has finally paid off.
“Yeah, for me, I feel so happy after the long-awaited goal. I’m excited,” he said. “I just want the fans to keep believing in us, and we will keep making them happy because in a team, no matter the situation, the supporters are the pillar of every success.”
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Nnaji had endured a frustrating spell in front of goal, admitting that the near misses had been troubling, but he never lost faith in his abilities.
“Well, I was a little bit disturbed when the misses kept coming, but I knew the goal would come because I have been working hard. In a match, chances will always come, and I just had to keep believing,” he concluded.
Eguma disclosed he has shifted focus to the NPFL matchday 32 ‘Abia Derby’ versus Abia Warriors billed for the Enyimba Stadium in Aba.
“We will go back home and prepare effectively for the crucial encounter,” he said.
By Sab Osuji
