Enyimba edge Al Ahli, win CAF Confederation Cup opener

Nigeria’s sole representative at the CAF Confederation Cup, Enyimba picked up all three points from their home fixture against Libyan side, Al Ahli Benghazi thanks to a comfortable 2-1 win at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba.

Enyimba took the lead in spectacular fashion in the 10th minute when the ball dropped for captain Austin Oladapo at the edge of the box following a corner, and he hit a rasping drive with his left peg that left the goalkeeper stranded as the ball flew past him into the top corner. The visitors were level 8 minutes later when Anthony Omaka conceded a penalty. Ahmed Imhamed sent John Noble the wrong way from the spot to make it 1-1. Enyimba kept up the pressure and were rewarded in the 43rd minute. Anayo Iwuala struck a powerful freekick which was parried by the Al Ahli goalkeeper, and Victor Mbaoma was on hand to stab home the loose ball and give his side the lead. Enyimba were guilty of missing gilt-edged chances as the game wore on, but Al Ahli were unable to punish them and returned home to Libya empty handed.

In his post-match press duties, Coach Fatai Osho of Enyimba praised the impacts of the players he brought in to surprise the opponents, and rued the chances missed by his side. Enyimba next face a trip to South Africa, where they will take on Soweto giants, Orlando Pirates in their second group game on Wednesday next week.