Enyimba crashed out of the CAF Confederation Cup after losing 3-1 to Zamalek SC, finishing third in Group D and failing to reach the quarter-finals.
The Aba Elephants, who ended the group stage with five points, lost the runner-up spot to Egyptian side Al Masry.
Zamalek, missing seven key players, surged to a 2-0 lead in the first 49 minutes at Cairo International Stadium, rendering all possible permutations irrelevant.
Mostafa Shalaby opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a header, and the Egyptian side maintained their advantage through the break.
Upon resumption, Enyimba’s goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena made a costly mistake in the 49th minute, allowing Seifeddine Jaziri to slot in an easy goal into an empty net for his first of two.
Ifeanyi Ihemekwele pulled one back for Enyimba with a powerful shot in the 57th minute, but Jaziri sealed the victory for Zamalek in the 87th minute with a brilliant strike.
Even if Enyimba had won, their hopes of progression would have remained slim, as Al Masry secured a 3-1 win against Black Bulls in Port Said.
This defeat underscores the ongoing struggles of Nigerian clubs in continental competitions, with Enyimba’s exit highlighting the difficulties despite their historical success.
Rivers United’s quarter-final run last season remains a rare achievement for Nigerian teams in recent years.
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Enyimba’s failure to replicate Rivers United’s continental success raises concerns about the consistency and strength of Nigerian club football.
With Enyimba out, this year’s CAF Confederation Cup will have no Nigerian representation in the quarter-finals.
However, Nigeria’s position in the CAF coefficient rankings remains strong, securing the 12th spot ahead of Mali.
This guarantees four spots in next season’s continental competitions—two in the CAF Champions League and two in the Confederation Cup.
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This small victory offers hope for Nigerian football as clubs strive for better success on the continental stage.
Source: The Athletic NG
