CAF CC exit: picking up the positives

How does it feel when you do not meet your expectations, disappointed right? That is how we feel after that loss to Zamalek in Cairo. Going into the game, we had hope that we could win and then wait for the result from the other fixture between Al Masry and Black Bulls. Nevertheless, there are positives we picked from the game, which we would want to look at.

Clinton Jephtah’s Return

This season, Jephtah has been one of the shining lights in our attack. He announced himself with that brace against Heartland in Owerri and has had a hand in some of our goals. Sadly, just before our game against Zamalek in Uyo, he got injured. This injury affected how we have played without him.

It was a relief to see the pacy and tricky winger return from injury and had his first game against Zamalek, the team which he did not play against at home. This is good news for the team and the fans too.

Nnachi’s impressive start

Last season, Chidiebere Nnachi’s addition to our attack was a big decision. He quickly became a fans’ favourite with his pace and deft touches. Unfortunately he got injured and was sidelined for a long time. It was refreshing to see him start the game against Zamalek and he has his moments too. It will be thrilling to see him play again in front of our home fans in Aba.

Our Second Half Performance

Our second half performance against Zamalek in Uyo was one of the best we had seen this season. In Cairo, we thought the boys would begin the show in the first half but plans did not work out well. The response from the team in the second half was promising, as we were able to hold possession even freezing cold and were able to press high up the pitch and had chances too. We raised the tempo of our game and that is a good sign. As we return to the NPFL, we will go into the outstanding games against Kano Pillars and Kwara United in fine form as the team is getting to understand themselves better under new manager, Stanley Eguma.

Eguma’s Flexibility

We also saw Eguma’s tactical ability and his experience as he tried to tweak the team at intervals. We also saw him give starts to Chidera Ezeh and Chidiebere Nnachi. With the attack becoming competitive now, Eguma would have to find space for his forwards; Atule, Ekene, Nnachi, Ideye, Ovoke, Ihemekwele and Clinton Jephtah.