Brown Ideye delivered a vital second-half goal as Enyimba FC edged Nasarawa United 2-1 in Aba, snapping their eight-game winless streak in the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL).
Ideye has now scored in back-to-back games for Stanley Eguma led nine-time champions after opening his account last weekend in Uyo in the CAF Confederation cup match day 4 clash against Black Bulls.
Intense First Half Ends with Enyimba in Front
The first half saw Enyimba dominate proceedings, creating several chances but failing to capitalize. Nasarawa United also came close in the 35th minute when a misjudged clearance by Somiari Alalibo presented Anas Yusuf with a golden opportunity.
However, Yusuf’s weak header went wide, squandering the chance to break the deadlock.
Enyimba finally found the breakthrough in the dying moments of the first half. Ifeanyi Ihemekewle threaded a perfect through ball to Joseph Atule, who calmly slotted home to give the People’s Elephant a 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
Yusuf Levels the Score
Nasarawa United responded early in the second half through their star forward, Anas Yusuf. Capitalizing on a well-timed pass from Abubakar Garba, Yusuf slotted into an empty net in the 58th minute to bring his team level.
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The goal marked Yusuf’s 11th of the season, solidifying his position as the NPFL’s top scorer.
Ideye’s Decisive Moment
Introduced in the 60th minute for Ekene Awazie, Brown Ideye made an immediate impact. Just three minutes later, he restored Enyimba’s lead with a composed finish.
60’| GOAL!!! BROWN IDEYE! Off the bench and scores
The veteran @brownaideideye restores Enyimba’s lead with his first touch just after coming on.
Enyimba 2-1 Nasarawa United#NPFL25 MD17 rescheduled fixture #54footballx pic.twitter.com/XcWrQXqwiI
— Official54fx (@54footballx) January 8, 2025
The goal was set up by a brilliant run from Joseph Atule, who weaved through Nasarawa’s defense before finding Ideye in space. The veteran striker made no mistake, securing a much-needed victory for the Aba-based side.
Despite the loss, Anas Yusuf continued his remarkable season, with his 11th goal making him the NPFL’s leading scorer.
Brown Ideye has scored in his last two matches for Enyimba (Photo credit: The Athletic Images)
On the other hand, Ideye’s heroics reaffirmed his value to Enyimba, with the former Super Eagles striker now scoring two goals in just 78 minutes of play since joining the club.
Enyimba fans will hope Ideye’s form marks the start of a resurgence for the People’s Elephant in both domestic and continental competitions.
Next Challenge: Al Masry
The victory comes at a crucial time for Enyimba as they prepare for a decisive CAF Confederation Cup clash against Al Masry of Egypt in Uyo on Sunday. With momentum on their side, the People’s Elephant will look to build on this result in their continental campaign.
