In a riveting encounter on Sunday, August 20, 2023, Nigerian champions Enyimba FC locked horns with Al Ahli Benghazi in the preliminary round first leg clash of the 2023/2024 CAF Champions League.
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The match, hosted by Al Ahli Benghazi, showcased an exhilarating display of skill and determination, resulting in a seven-goal spectacle that left fans on the edge of their seats.
The People’s Elephants struck first, with striker Chijioke Mboama making his mark by firing Enyimba FC into the lead. However, the hosts swiftly countered, leveling the playing field with a goal in the thirty-second minute.
The action-packed first half took another twist when Enyimba FC’s left-back, Imo Obot, inadvertently deflected a cross into his own net, gifting Al Ahli Benghazi a 2-1 advantage going into halftime.
The second half was nothing short of intense, with both teams unleashing a flurry of attacks. Eze Ekwutoziam and Murphy Ndukwu displayed their prowess by netting crucial goals, erasing Al Ahli Benghazi’s leads to bring the scoreline to an electrifying 3-3.
However, just when a draw seemed inevitable, Al Ahli Benghazi dealt a heart-wrenching blow in stoppage time, securing a dramatic 4-3 victory in the first leg.
Coach Finidi George’s Enyimba International FC now returns to Nigeria, gearing up for the return leg in Uyo, their adopted home for CAF Champions League encounters. Despite the narrow defeat, Enyimba FC clings to a glimmer of hope with three valuable away goals.
As the 2022/2023 Nigeria Professional Football League champions, they are poised to mount a spirited comeback against their long-standing rivals and potentially overturn the deficit, aiming for a triumphant advancement in the tournament. Football enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly anticipating the return leg, as Enyimba FC sets its sights on a thrilling resurgence on its home turf.
