Lobi Stars showcased their dominance in possession and created multiple scoring opportunities, ultimately falling 0-1 to Enyimba International FC on Matchday 22 of the Nigeria Premier Football League at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium.

Their relentless pursuit of a goal was evident in the numerous free kicks and corners they secured.

Raphael Ayagwa’s impressive volley in the 30th minute left fans on the edge of their seats, anticipating a breakthrough.

However, Enyimba capitalized on a rare chance in the 40th minute, with Ifeanyi Ihemekwele scoring from a through pass to give the visitors the lead.

In the second half, Technical Adviser Daniel Amokachi introduced fresh talent, including Nazir Mohamad, Alex Oche, Ossy Martins, Chikeluba Ofoedu, and Segun Oloruntoba, to bolster the attack. Although they couldn’t break through Enyimba’s defense, the team’s determination remained unwavering.

Following the match, Amokachi expressed his optimism, stating:

“We had an exceptional game in Uyo, and with our new signings, we’re confident in our ability to make a comeback. Although they took their chance, we’ll learn from this experience and move forward.”

Amokachi also acknowledged Bauchi’s rich football history and the state’s contributions to Nigerian football, including notable figures such as Alhaji Sani Ahmed Toro, Maigari, and Patrick Pascal.

“Bauchi has become a second home to Lobi Stars, and we’ll continue to fight. We’ll take this as a learning experience and come back stronger,” he assured.

The team’s next challenge is a crucial away fixture against Rivers United in Port Harcourt this weekend.

Enyimba FC may have left the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi with all three points, but their new boss, Coach Stanley Eguma, insists the People’s Elephant is far from being the finished product.

A solitary strike from in-form forward Ifeanyi Ihemekwele was enough to see off a determined Lobi Stars side in an electrifying NPFL Match-day 22 clash. The goal, a product of brilliant vision from Ufere Chinedu, sparked wild celebrations among Enyimba fans, who have been craving consistency from their team.

Despite the win, Enyimba could have made life easier for themselves had their attack been more clinical. Striker Joseph Atule, facing his boyhood club, fluffed two golden chances, while debutant Michael Nelson also missed a sitter after coming on in his debut as a substitute. These wasted opportunities left the door open for a potential Lobi comeback, but Enyimba’s backline, led by their stand-in captain and CHAN Eagles goalkeeper, stood firm to record a rare clean sheet.

After the game, Coach Eguma remained level-headed, acknowledging the importance of the win but emphasizing that his squad is still evolving.

“We drew at home and came here to win, which shows no two games are the same,” Eguma noted. “We are still working, still trying to understand our players, and the players are still trying to understand my philosophy. It’s a work in progress. With time, we will get better, but it’s not yet time for celebration.”

The result lifts Enyimba slightly up the NPFL standings, but Eguma is well aware that his team cannot afford to slow down.

“We are not happy with our position on the log. We have to do something to move up. I am happy we moved a bit with this win, and I congratulate the players for their effort. But we need to push harder in upcoming games to ensure a steady climb.”

Enyimba’s next test comes against struggling Akwa United at the Nest of Champions in Uyo on Sunday. With the chase for the NPFL title heating up, Eguma will be hoping his “work in progress” starts yielding more polished performances.

Enyimba returned to winning ways with a narrow 1-0 victory over Lobi Stars at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi.

Stanley Eguma’s side snapped a six-game winless run across all competitions, thanks to Ifeanyi Ihemekwele’s decisive 40th-minute strike — his fifth league goal this season. The win lifted Enyimba from 11th to 8th place on the league table.

In Enugu, Rangers secured a commanding 2-0 victory over Ikorodu City, courtesy of goals from Godwin Obaje and Isaac Saviour.

Meanwhile, Bendel Insurance edged Katsina United 1-0 at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, with Julius Emiloju finding the net in the 26th minute to seal the win.