Naija Super 8: Enyimba FC in danger of elimination after Sporting Lagos FC draw
Enyimba FC are in danger of Naija Super 8 group stage elimination after a 0-0 draw vs Sporting Lagos FC on Sunday July 9, 2023.
The People’s Elephants suffered a 2-1 opening day loss to Remo Stars Sports Club and needed a win against Sporting Lagos FC to get back on track.
On a ground they celebrated their 9th Nigeria Premier League triumph in June, Enyimba FC survived defeat vs Premier League new-boys Sporting Lagos FC who were playing their first game of the tournament.
Enyimba FC shot-stopper was named ‘Hero of the match’ in recognition of his saves including one from the penalty spot to deny Sporting Lagos a famous win at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan Lagos State.
Rivio Ayemwere of Sporting Lagos FC had the first chance of the game in the 16th minute but his effort rolled just wide off the target.
Chisom Okereke of Enyimba FC and Jonathan Alukwu of Sporting Lagos FC had long-range attempts at either ends in what was a drab first half.
A livelier second half followed with Sporting Lagos FC guilty of missing clear-cut chances to beat Enyimba FC in front of their supporters on Sunday evening.
Sporting Lagos FC were presented with a golden chance to score in the 79th minute following a foul in the Enyimba FC penalty area.
Rabiu Zulfikilu’s saw his effort saved by Enyimba FC goalkeeper John Noble, to keep the score level with eleven minutes to the end of the match.
Deep into stoppage time, Enyimba FC’s Chidiebere Nnaji almost broke Sporting hearts when his header from Emmanuel Onyeukwu’s cross narrowly missed the target.
It finished Enyimba FC 0-0 Sporting Lagos FC, spoils shared and danger for People Elephants who must win their next game and hope other results go their way to reach the Semi-final.
As it stands, Remo Stars Sports Club are top of the log with four points. Katsina United FC and Sporting Lagos FC have one point apiece after one game in the tournament. Enyimba FC are fourth place with one point from two matches.
Remo Stars FC will play Sporting Lagos FC in their next match of the Naija Super 8 while Enyimba FC play Katsina United FC in a make or mar game.
