Enyimba have put themselves in a vantage position to qualify for the playoffs round of the CAF Confederation Cup after they defeated their hosts, Diambars FC of Senegal 1-0 in the first leg of the second round played in Dakar yesterday.
The all-important goal was scored by Cyril Olisema from the penalty spot about five minutes before the regulation time after the home team defence fouled Gabriel Orok in the vital area before he could wreak havoc.
It was the home team that began the tie in commanding style and it was no surprise Enyimba goalkeeper, Ojo Olorunleke was the busier of the two goaltenders.
A few minutes before the break the People’s Elephant came out in their numbers and they almost found an opening but an adventurous move from the Nigerian side was foiled but Enyimba got a free kick which caused Diambars FC anxious moments in their 18 yards box.
In the second half, Enyimba restricted most of their movements in their half with occasional forays into the opposition’s territory.
Aware that they do not have much time left with barely 10 minutes before the final whistle, Enyimba players went in search of an away goal and they got it some minutes later after Orok was brought down in the vital for Olisema to fire from 12 yards beyond the reach of Diambars’ goalkeeper.
The game ended that way with Enyimba taking a lone goal lead to the return leg billed for Aba next Sunday.
It also meant that new coach, Finidi George began his job as Enyimba gaffer on a winning note.
Nigeria’s second representative in the competition, Bayelsa United will today face CS Sfaxien of Tunisia in the first leg of the second round.
