Enyimba’s dramatic 2–1 comeback victory over title holders Remo Stars in Sunday’s NPFL Matchday 36 fixture at the Aba City Stadium has strengthened their hopes of avoiding relegation, with head coach Emmanuel Deutsch Gustavo declaring the win a clear sign that the nine-time champions will survive the drop. The People’s Elephant, who were trailing 1–0 after Victor Mbaoma’s 21st-minute strike, responded with two quick goals — Stanley Dimgba equalizing in the 28th minute and Michael Chidera scoring the winner just three minutes after halftime. Chidera’s 11th goal of the season proved decisive, lifting Enyimba to 12th on the league table with just two matches remaining in the 2025/26 season.
The win was not only a morale booster but also a tactical and emotional turnaround for the Aba-based side, who have struggled for consistency throughout the campaign. Coach Deutsch praised his players for showing character and resilience, especially after conceding early. “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,” Deutsch told reporters after the game. He emphasized that the victory was earned through determination and personal motivation, reminding his squad that their legacy was at stake.
Deutsch revealed that he challenged his players to earn respect by saving the club from relegation. “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,” he said. The coach acknowledged the quality of Remo Stars, a team known for their strong defensive structure and attacking threat, and commended his side for overcoming adversity. “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,” he added.
With the win, Enyimba now face two crucial fixtures to secure their NPFL status. They will travel to face Kwara United in their next match, followed by a home clash against El-Kanemi Warriors. Deutsch remains confident, insisting that survival is not a matter of luck but of effort and discipline. “I said Enyimba will not go into relegation, but it is not by miracle. I think now everybody is happy,” he said. The result has reignited hope among fans and stakeholders, as the club looks to end the season on a high note and preserve their status in Nigeria’s top flight.
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