Enyimba Eliminated from CAF Confederation Cup After Zamalek Defeat

Nine-time Nigerian Premier League champions Enyimba saw their CAF Confederation Cup journey come to a bitter end on Sunday after a 3-1 loss to Zamalek in their final Group A clash at the iconic Cairo International Stadium. Zamalek, already assured of top spot in the group with 11 points before the game, dominated the encounter, leaving Enyimba needing a win that ultimately proved elusive.

The Egyptian side took the lead in the 29th minute when Mostafa Shalaby headed in a perfectly placed cross to put the hosts ahead. Shortly after the break, Seifeddine Jaziri doubled Zamalek’s advantage, placing Enyimba in an even more precarious position. Despite the setback, the Nigerian side showed resilience, with Ifeanyi Ihemekwele pulling a goal back in the 57th minute. However, their hopes of a comeback were dashed when Jaziri struck again in the 87th minute, sealing the win for Zamalek and extinguishing Enyimba’s chances of progressing to the knockout stages.

In the group’s other match, Al Masry secured their place in the next round with a convincing 3-1 win over Black Bulls Maputo. Fakhreddine Ben Youssef was the hero for Al Masry, scoring a first-half hat-trick that ensured their qualification alongside Zamalek.

Enyimba’s exit marks another disappointing chapter in their quest to become the first Nigerian team to win the Confederation Cup. Despite their rich history in African football, which includes two CAF Champions League titles, the People’s Elephant were unable to overcome the challenges of the group stage, a setback that highlights the difficulties Nigerian clubs have faced on the continental stage in recent years.

With their continental campaign now over, Enyimba will shift focus to their domestic league as they prepare for the resumption of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on January 23. Their first fixture will be a crucial clash against former champions Kano Pillars, a match that could define their momentum for the remainder of the season.

As reigning NPFL champions, Enyimba remain determined to build on their legacy as Nigeria’s most successful club, aiming to extend their record haul of eight league titles. Turning their disappointment in the Confederation Cup into a renewed push for domestic dominance will be critical as they look to maintain their position at the top of Nigerian football.

The defeat also raises questions about the broader state of Nigerian football on the continental stage. Enyimba’s struggles in the Confederation Cup reflect the need for Nigerian clubs to address issues such as squad depth, funding, and tactical preparation to compete more effectively against their North African counterparts, who continue to dominate CAF competitions.

For now, Enyimba must regroup and focus on their domestic campaign while keeping an eye on future opportunities to reclaim their place among Africa’s elite. Their journey this season may have ended in disappointment, but the lessons learned could pave the way for a stronger return to continental football in the future.