Enyimba FC’s hopes of progressing to the quarter-finals of the 2024/2025 CAF Confederation Cup hang by a thread after a 1-1 draw with Egypt’s Al Masry at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Sunday, January 12, 2025.
Both teams approached the penultimate group stage clash needing a win to boost their chances of qualification from a tightly contested group. Al Masry struck first in the 8th minute when Mohammed Hashem outjumped the Enyimba defence to head past goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena. The visitors held onto their 0-1 lead until the halftime break, leaving the hosts under pressure to turn the game around.
Enyimba responded early in the second half, with Ifeanyi Ihemekwele restoring parity through a well-placed header. The goal set the tone for an intense end-to-end battle as both sides pushed for a decisive winner.
The tension reached a boiling point in the final quarter of the game when Enyimba skipper Alalibo Somiari conceded a penalty by fouling an Al Masry attacker in the box. However, goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena emerged as the hero, denying the Egyptians from the spot to keep Enyimba’s hopes alive.
Seeking a winner, Enyimba introduced experienced forward and 2013 AFCON winner Brown Ideye, whose presence added urgency to the attack. Despite the spirited efforts, the People’s Elephant were unable to break through Al Masry’s resilient defence, and the game ended 1-1.
The result leaves Enyimba in a precarious position. Zamalek SC of Egypt have already secured top spot in the group and a quarter-final berth following their 1-3 away win over Mozambique’s Black Bulls. With one matchday remaining, Al Masry sit second with six points, followed by Enyimba on five and Black Bulls on four.
To qualify, Enyimba must secure victory against group leaders Zamalek in Cairo on the final matchday, while hoping Black Bulls can deny Al Masry a win in Egypt.
The stage is set for a dramatic conclusion to the group phase as Enyimba fight to keep their CAF Confederation Cup dreams alive.
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