Enyimba head coach Yemi ‘Yema’ Olanrewaju has expressed Enyimba’s readiness for their 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League season opener against Heartland FC in Owerri on Sunday, www.aclsports.com reports.
Speaking to Enyimba media ahead of the game, Olanrewaju said, “I can say we are ready and we have no excuse now. The squad has been working tirelessly to integrate new signings into the team.”
The Aba Elephants won the league title two seasons ago when Yema was the assistant to now Rivers United head coach Finidi George. However, the young tactician, who has now been given the mantle to lead the club, is keen to make a mark with the side this season.
“The integration has been going well, and it’s time to translate it into results. We are eager to make a strong impression in the league, and we know that Heartland FC, led by Coach Emmanuel Amunike, will pose a formidable challenge,” the coach added.
Heartland, who were recently accommodated into the league, will hope to start on a winning note under the guidance of former Nigerian International Emmanuel Amuneke and Yemi Olanrewaju is aware of that desire.
“Coach Amuneke would want to start on a good note too in the league. But we are determined to give it our all and start very well, hoping for a positive result in Owerri,” the Enyimba head coach concluded.
Enyimba have lost several players to international transfers and will be presenting a nearly new squad as they hope to challenge for honours on all fronts this term.
The league match against Heartland FC is the first Oriental Derby of the season, a rivalry that has produced many thrilling encounters over the years.
Stephen Chukwude scored the game’s only as Enyimba took all three points in their last visit to the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri last December – the venue of this Sunday’s fixture.
