The Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt is set to witness an explosive South-South derby as Rivers United, led by coach Finidi George, takes on Enyimba, coached by his protégé, Yema Olarenwaju, on Matchday 4 of the Nigeria Premier League.
This encounter marks the first meeting between Finidi and Olarenwaju since parting ways at Enyimba.
Finidi handpicked Olarenwaju as his assistant in September 2022, and together, they secured Enyimba’s record-extending 9th Nigeria Premier League title.
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After Finidi’s resignation in May 2024, Olarenwaju took the reins as interim head coach and later became the permanent head coach in August.
His coaching experience includes stints at Magate FC, MFM FC, the Nigeria U17 national team, and Vandrezzer FC.
Under Olarenwaju, Enyimba has maintained an impressive start to the 2024/25 NPFL season, winning their first two matches and remaining the only Nigerian club left on the continent.
Yemi Olanrenwaju and club chairman Nwankwo Kanu
Finidi, having put the Super Eagles disappointment behind him, has made a flying start to the campaign with Rivers United, winning two and drawing one in three matches, leaving them second on the log with seven points.
The Port Harcourt clash promises to be an intense encounter, with both coaches plotting against each other.
Olarenwaju expressed his excitement, stating, “We’re putting this game behind us and focusing on Rivers United.”
This matchup has all the ingredients of a thriller. With Finidi’s experience and Olarenwaju’s determination, expect a closely contested game. Rivers United’s home advantage may give them the edge.