On Sunday the 22nd of October 2023, Enyimba International FC of Aba faced a disheartening defeat in the first leg of the 2023 African Football League Quarter-finals against Wydad Casablanca of Morocco In Uyo. However, what has truly grabbed the spotlight is not the loss itself but a glaring mishap that unfolded during the game.
The talking point centers around a player’s jersey – that of Gabriel Innocent, to be precise. It wasn’t the defeat that had fans and spectators shaking their heads; instead, it was the jersey number and name that left everyone baffled.
During the match against Wydad Casablanca, the name and number on Gabriel Innocent’s jersey were inscribed by hand, with nothing more than local paint. This makeshift solution stood out like a sore thumb, turning what should have been a professional sports event into what some have called a “show of shame.”
Amidst this jersey fiasco, the criticism was swift and unrelenting. Many were quick to call out Kanu Nwankwo, the Enyimba chairman, branding him a “big-time failure.” This incident further fueled the debate about whether legendary players can transition successfully into administration. Some opined that firing the former chairman was a mistake, while others argued that a team that couldn’t even properly kit their players couldn’t be expected to draw a sizable crowd of fans.
Enyimba FC had months to prepare for this crucial fixture, but the jersey mishap has turned them into a source of disgrace for Nigeria. The insinuation of corruption being at the root of such mishandling only adds to the frustration of fans and observers.
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Watch the goal that sealed Enyimba’s fate in the game;
The frustration doesn’t end with the jersey debacle; it extends to the overall state of Enyimba Stadium. Many have pointed out that, under Kanu’s regime as chairman, little to no progress has been made. The expectations of a team that has proudly represented Nigeria on the international stage are not being met.
In the wake of this disheartening loss, Wydad Casablanca of Morocco secured a precious victory on Nigerian soil, making them the second Moroccan club to triumph over Enyimba on their home turf, following in the footsteps of Raja Casablanca.
It’s clear that Kanu Nwankwo needs competent and capable individuals around him to steer the club in the right direction. For a tournament that places a premium on brand quality when admitting participants, today’s performance by Enyimba was nothing short of atrocious. The quality of football played was an eyesore, and the overall packaging of the match was virtually non-existent.
As Enyimba International FC faces the prospect of being knocked out from the tournament, the stark reality is that a lot needs to change within the club to meet the high standards and expectations of international competitions. The state of Nigerian football may depend on it.
