We won’t underrate Barau – Eguma

Stanley Eguma says Enyimba will not underrate newly-promoted Barau FC when both teams clash on Sunday in their opening game of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

Record NPFL champions Enyimba are guests of Kano-based Barau, who are playing in the topflight for the first time in their history, in a typical David versus Goliath clash.

Speaking to Enyimbafc.net, the veteran tactician, however, expects a ‘tough’ encounter against the underdogs.

“It’s our first game of the season, and a baptism of fire for Barau FC in Kano,” the former Rivers United gaffer said.

“We are not underrating the team, who have done so well in the NNL (Nigeria National League) before they gained promotion to the NPFL.

“We know they have young talented players that have been together, and played together to gain the promotion. It’s a tough game, and we are not taking them for granted. We’re ready.

“We know that victory in that game will put us in a very good position to compete for the title this season. And that’s what we are going for in Kano.”

Eguma said his players are in high spirit ahead of the match.

“The players are eagerly looking forward to the match,” he added. “There are lots of positives in the team.

“For our new players, who want to don an Enyimba jersey, this is an opportunity for them, and they want to give a good account of themselves.

“So, we are expecting a very positive game in Kano, and hopefully, we can come back with a very good result.”