Enyimba Head Coach, Emmanuel Deutsch Gustavo, says the People’s Elephant’s 2–1 comeback victory against title holders, Remo Stars, in Sunday’s 2025/26 NPFL Matchday 36 fixture in Aba has tacitly confirmed his conviction that the nine-time champions will avoid relegation, Completesports.com reports.
Enyimba Rally From Behind To Secure Crucial Victory
Victor Mbaoma handed the visitors a shock lead 21 minutes after kick-off before Stanley Dimgba drew Enyimba level in the 28th minute, as both sides went into the break on even terms.
Michael Chidera scored the match-winner for the home team three minutes after the restart. It was Chidera’s 11th goal of the season for the two-time CAF Champions League winners, and it proved enough to lift Enyimba to 12th position on the table with just two matches remaining.
Deutsch: Enyimba Win Signals Relegation Escape
A confident Coach Deutsch stated that the team will not go down, insisting that the victory has paved the way for Enyimba’s survival with two games left.
Also Read: NPFL: Enyimba Won’t Be Derailed By Defeat At Rangers In Survival Push — Deutsch
“This is the match everybody has been waiting for. It is the result everybody here in Aba, every Abian, has been waiting for. It is a match we needed to do everything to win. I am happy, and all Abians are very happy with the result. It is a very good thing for everybody,” Deutsch told reporters after the match.
Motivation Key As Enyimba Show Character
On what he told his players after conceding, Deutsch said personal motivation was key.
“I just told them what to do and made them understand they must earn a good name by getting the club out of relegation.
“If they want to take a bad name into relegation, then it is up to them.
Also Read: NPFL: Enyimba Boosted By Top Scorer’s Return Ahead Crucial Remo Stars Clash
“They showed character. They played against a good side. Remo Stars are a good team. They scored, we equalised, and then went ahead again. The boys have confidence now, especially after the State Challenge Cup.”
People’s Elephant Face Decisive Final Fixtures
“I said Enyimba will not go into relegation, but it is not by miracle. I think now everybody is happy. We have two matches left — one away against Kwara United and one at home against El-Kanemi Warriors,” he added.
By Sab Osuji
