Eguma Salutes Gritty Enyimba in Oriental Derby Showdown

The much-anticipated Oriental Derby — the fierce Abia Derby — once again lived up to its historic billing, delivering drama, grit, and high-octane tension, even if the goals refused to come. 

The clash between Abia Warriors and Enyimba FC ended in a goalless stalemate, but the spectacle on display was anything but dull.

From the first blast of the whistle, the home side came hunting, attacking with urgency down the flanks and trying to unsettle the Enyimba backline. But each time they threatened, the People’s Elephant stood tall.

Goalkeeper Kelvin Ogunga produced a massive point-blank save to deny Megwo in what looked certain to be the opener. Even under pressure from Peter Afolayan, the striker couldn’t break Ogunga’s resilience — a moment that kept Enyimba fully alive in the derby.

The tempo intensified in the second half as Enyimba pushed forward, probing for that decisive breakthrough. But like every classic derby, both teams neutralized each other, turning the contest into a tactical chess match. The result? The fourth goalless draw between both sides since 2014 — a testament to just how tight this rivalry remains.

Speaking after the charged encounter, Coach Stanley Eguma commended his squad for their discipline and composure throughout the battle.

“It was generally a good game; the two teams played a high tactical game,”

Eguma noted, praising the level of commitment on both sides.

“We are happy to have gotten the draw although we planned for the maximum points, but we met a stubborn side in Abia Warriors.”

Eguma remained optimistic, highlighting the positives as Enyimba continues their NPFL campaign:

“Our opponents are a good side, no doubt, and my boys played according to our game plan. We will continue to build on the progress in our subsequent games.”

Next stop for the People’s Elephant: a return to Aba for a home clash against Wikki Tourist in NPFL Match Day 13 — a perfect opportunity to turn grit into goals and points.