Match Report: Gombe United stuns defending champions Enyimba 2-0
GOMBE (Made In Africa Sport) – Gombe United shocked defending champions Enyimba 2-0 in matchday two of the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) match at the Pantami Stadium, Gombe on Sunday, 8 October 2023.
The People’s Elephant were hoping to get their title defense off to a strong start, but they found themselves behind early on thanks to a header from Gombe’s Alakwe Chijoke in the first half.
The Champions pushed for an equalizer, but they were hit with a heartbreaking goal in the 96th minute by Ahmad Jimoh to seal a 2-0 victory for the home side.
The result was a shock for Enyimba, who were widely expected to beat Gombe. However, the Savannah Scorpions put in a scintillating performance and deserved their victory.
Statistics
Gombe United 2-0 Enyimba
In a disappointing start to their title defense, the Champions stumble at the Pantami Stadium.
Alakwe Chijoke's first-half header ignites the spark, and in a breathtaking climax, Ahmad Jimoh delivers a heart-stopping 96th-minute strike. #NPFLWithMIAS pic.twitter.com/gRuy6PUS8f
— Made In Africa Sport (@madeinafricaweb) October 8, 2023
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Gombe United manager Babaganaru was delighted with the win and praised his players for their effort despite their little time together.
“It’s a very important win for us, starting with a victory,” Babaganaru said. “Playing the champions is not easy, if you look at us we are just building an entire new team, most of the players we used last season have left and we started preparation very late.”
“I really appreciate the performance of my players, I believe we will improve during the course of the league, they are just starting to adapt to my philosophy.”
Enyimba chairman Kanu Nwanko and coach Finidi George declined to comment after the match.
The jubilant Gombe United supporters celebrated with their players after the final whistle, congratulating them on the impressive win over the league champions.
What’s next
The result leaves Enyimba with a lot to think about as they begin their title defense. Gombe United, on the other hand, will be looking to build on this momentum and challenge for a top-six finish this season.
The Savannah Scorpions will be traveling to Ibadan to face Shooting Stars at the Lekan Salami Stadium in matchday three while the nine-times Champions will be looking to bounce back when they host at the Enyimba International Stadium in their second game of the NPFL season.
Matchday two results
2023/2024 NPFL MATCHDAY TWO:
◉ 10 games
◉ 18 goals
◉ 0 away win
◉ 9 clean sheets#NPFLWithMIAS #NPFL24 pic.twitter.com/dEUa6ZqYJp— Made In Africa Sport (@madeinafricaweb) October 8, 2023
