Veteran Winger, Stanley Dimgba Rallies Enyimba for Pride & Supremacy Against Abia Warriors

As the curtain rises on what promises to be another electrifying chapter of the Abia Derby, all eyes will be on Umuahia this Sunday when Abia Warriors lock horns with their illustrious neighbours, Enyimba International FC, in a highly anticipated Oriental showdown.

The fixture, famed for passion, pride, and pure football artistry, will once again test the mettle of both Abia clubs as bragging rights, honour, and local supremacy come into play.

For Enyimba’s experienced winger Stanley Dimgba, the derby is far beyond a friendly fixture — it’s a battle of heritage and heart. The left-footed maestro, who has donned the colours of both sides in his illustrious career, knows the magnitude of the encounter and has taken it upon himself to rally the People’s Elephant for a spirited performance.

“We are at Umuahia now to face Abia Warriors and it’s a local derby — it hasn’t been easy any time we play them,” Dimgba told Enyimba Media on arrival in Umuahia.

“Most of the players don’t really understand the magnitude of this encounter. But some of us who have experienced it have psyched them up to understand what it’s all about.”

Having represented both sides at different stages of his career, Dimgba’s return to Aba adds an emotional layer to Sunday’s clash. His experience, leadership, and sense of rivalry are expected to ignite the Enyimba dressing room as the team seeks to maintain momentum and winning form.

“For me, I’m always ready to give my best if called upon by the technical crew to ensure Enyimba maintain the winning ways,” he added. 

“I also want to call on all our fans to turn up in their numbers and cheer us to victory.

Since their first top-flight meeting in 2014, the Abia Derby has produced 19 thrilling encounters — with Enyimba claiming 12 wins, Warriors 3, and 4 ending in draws. Yet, form and statistics often fade when pride is at stake in this emotional Abia derby.

Sunday’s battle will also see familiar faces on both sides. Former Enyimba players — Innocent Gabriel, Abdullahi Abubakar, Somiari Alalibo, and Imo Obot — could line up for Warriors under Coach Imama Amapakabo, setting up a tasty reunion on familiar turf against their former Gaffer, Coach Stanley Eguma.

Kick-off is at 4 p.m. at the Umuahia Township Stadium, with live broadcast on NPFLTV (Propel Sports).

With both teams hungry and the fans expectant, one thing is certain — Abia will tremble once again as the Elephant charges into Umuahia.