Enyimba International FC secured a commanding 4-2 victory over Shooting Stars Sports Club in a rescheduled Matchday 2 contest of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Wednesday at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba.
The nine-time NPFL champions delivered an impressive attacking display, finally claiming their first three points of the season with authority. Enyimba’s offensive prowess proved decisive, capitalizing ruthlessly on every defensive lapse from their opponents.
The People’s Elephants opened the scoring in the 6th minute when Richard Ezinna exploited a Shooting Stars defensive error to finish clinically and ignite the home crowd’s enthusiasm.
Enyimba extended their advantage to 2-0 in the 28th minute following Obichere Odinaka’s corner delivery. Chibueze Damian received the deflection and executed a remarkable long-range effort for his inaugural Enyimba goal.
The hosts increased their lead to 3-0 in the 36th minute through coordinated team play. Chibueze Damian provided an incisive long-range pass to Odinaka Obichere, who subsequently set up Idris Abubakar to convert his maiden NPFL goal.
Enyimba maintained their commanding performance after halftime, reaching 4-0 in the 49th minute. Winger William Wonah executed a dynamic solo run past Victor Sochima before assisting Ifeanyi Ihemekwele, who completed an easy finish for his first goal in eight months with Enyimba.
Shooting Stars mounted a late comeback attempt, with substitute players Adams Mustapha and Atule Johnmark scoring consolation goals in the 76th and 89th minutes respectively. Nevertheless, Enyimba’s substantial lead proved insurmountable, securing a well-earned 4-2 triumph.
Enyimba assistant coach, Ejeh Okechukwu expressed delight after the People’s Elephants secured their first win of the season.
Speaking after the match, Okechukwu said: “We feel fantastic. For the technical crew and players it feels good winning our first game of the season. We have been working on goal scoring. The games we lost saw us create chances and we couldn’t convert them. Today is a reflection of what we did in training.”
On the two goals conceded, he admitted there is still work to do defensively.
“It’s a learning curve for us. We conceded silly goals in our last two home games, that means we haven’t gotten it right defensively. Come Sunday against Plateau United, the lapses will be corrected.”
Looking ahead to the next fixture, Okechukwu called on the fans for continued support:
“Our fans should keep trooping en masse to support this team. It’s a work in progress. Fans should exercise patience with us, we will get it right. Today is a sign that this team can score goals. When we get it right, it will be a near perfect team,” he added.
