Nigeria giants Enyimba bow out of CAF competition after crushing defeat to Egypt’s Zamalek

Enyimba United’s CAF Confederation Cup journey came to a disappointing end following a 3-1 defeat to Zamalek SC in their final Group A fixture at the Cairo International Stadium on Sunday, Soccernet.football reports.

The result, coupled with Al Masry’s victory over Black Bulls Maputo, sealed the Nigerian champions’ exit from the competition.

The Aba Elephants faced an uphill task heading into the game. Not only did they require a win against Zamalek, but their qualification hopes were also tied to Black Bulls Maputo defeating Al Masry.

Zamalek, having already secured top spot in the group with 11 points from five matches, fielded a strong side and displayed their dominance from the outset.

Mostafa Shalaby opened the scoring for the Egyptian giants in the 29th minute, heading in a precise cross to put the hosts ahead.

Enyimba struggled to find a response as Zamalek controlled possession and tempo. Shortly after the break, Seifeddine Jaziri doubled Zamalek’s lead, capitalizing on defensive lapses in Enyimba’s backline.

Enyimba showed resilience, reducing the deficit in the 57th minute through Ifeanyi Ihemekwele. The forward latched onto a loose ball in the box, keeping his side’s slim hopes alive.

However, Jaziri struck again in the 87th minute, securing his brace and putting the result beyond doubt.

Meanwhile, Al Masry’s emphatic 3-1 victory over Black Bulls Maputo, inspired by Fakhreddine Ben Youssef’s first-half hat-trick, ensured their progression as group runners-up.

Enyimba’s fate was ultimately sealed, marking a premature end to their Confederation Cup campaign.

With continental football off the table, Enyimba’s focus shifts back to domestic matters.

They resume their NPFL campaign on January 23 against Kano Pillars.

Currently seventh on the table and nine points behind league leaders Remo Stars, Enyimba hold two games in hand, offering a glimmer of hope for a late-season title charge.