Enyimba coach Yemi Olanrewaju has lauded his team for their impressive performance in securing a CAF Confederation Cup ticket.
Olanrewaju, who began the season as an assistant coach, stepped into the head coach role following Finidi George’s resignation to take up the Super Eagles job.
Olanrewaju’s leadership saw Enyimba win their first two games under his charge, beating Abia Warriors and Rivers United. However, a winless streak in the next three matches, including a defeat to eventual champions Enugu Rangers, ended their title hopes.
In a crucial final game of the season against Plateau United, who were just two points behind and vying for a Confederation Cup spot, Olanrewaju’s team rose to the occasion. They secured a 2-0 victory, finishing third and qualifying for Africa’s club football second-tier competition.
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Proud of his players’ efforts, Olanrewaju shared how he motivated them to overcome anxiety and deliver the needed win. “There was a lot of anxiety, so in the second half, I had to talk to the boys,” Olanrewaju said. “Anxiety weighs a man down, and we needed to stay calm. After the Rangers game, we knew we were not going to win the league, which affected our performance in the last two games.”
To boost morale, Olanrewaju brought in a psychologist from Lagos and reminded the players of their fans’ dedication. “I told the players, ‘People have been here since two o’clock in the sun to watch us. We can’t afford to let them down.’ We played with everything we had to make the fans happy, and eventually, we won 2-0,” he said.
With the win, Enyimba secured continental football for the second consecutive season, ensuring a positive end to their campaign despite not defending their title.
