Eight-time champions Enyimba began their 2023 abridged Nigeria Professional Football League season on a bright note with a 2-1 win over Nasarawa United at the Zaria Road Stadium in Jos on Saturday.

The George Finidi-led side began the first half on a bright note and were rewarded with the opener in the 32nd minute as Akanni Elijah’s 25-yard shot proved to be too hot for the Solid Miners goalkeeper, Yinka David. Imoh Obot made it 2-0 five minutes later in the 37th minute. Oche Josiah headed home the consolation goal for the hosts in the 87th minute after his initial shot from the penalty spot had been saved by Enyimba keeper Ojo Olorunleke.

The host had  been close to scoring their opener in the 75th minute but Olorunleke pulled off a superb save to deny Ogbelu Onuche’s well taken freekick while the rebound from Abubakar Abdullahi’s header rattled the crossbar.

Speaking after the win, Enyimba coach, George Finidi, said despite losing a bit of steam in the second half, it was a deserved victory for his ward.

“Being the first match, I thank a few of the players who were nervous because no one wants to lose. We saw what happened against Akwa United so everyone is a little bit mindful but I must commend the boys, they fought hard. It was a difficult game but I think we deserved to take the three points,” Finidi told the press after the game. 

With the win, The People’s Elephant joins newcomers Bendel Insurance as the second team to record a win this season. Both wins have come away from home.