Former Enyimba midfielder Chinedu Ufere has expressed optimism that the People’s Elephant will have a stronger season in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) next year, following their hard-fought survival in the 2025/26 campaign. The nine-time champions secured their NPFL status on the final day of the season with a commanding 3-0 home victory over El-Kanemi Warriors at the Enyimba International Stadium in Aba. The defeat sent El-Kanemi Warriors down to the Nigeria National League (NNL), while Enyimba finished the season in 11th position with 49 points from 38 league games.
Ufere acknowledged the difficulties of the season, admitting it fell short of expectations. He emphasized that despite the challenges, the team showed resilience and commitment throughout the campaign. “Firstly, I want to thank God that the season has come and gone without any major injury and no life was lost,” Ufere told Enyimbafc.net. He praised the players, coaches, backroom staff, and fans for their unwavering support during a period when relegation seemed imminent. “This was not the season we planned for. This wasn’t where we planned to end, but this is football, and anything can happen,” he added.
The former midfielder highlighted the team’s determination to bounce back stronger in the upcoming season. He commended the players for their dedication, noting that even in tough moments, they remained focused and professional. “Sometimes, it’s like that – you’ll see a big team falling. After the ups and downs, we came out stronger,” Ufere said. He remains confident that with continued effort and unity, Enyimba can return to its former glory.
Now, the focus shifts to the President Federation Cup, where Enyimba will face Gombe United in the Round of 32. Ufere stressed that the competition is their best chance to secure a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup. “The Federation Cup is our only chance, and we are not going to take it lightly. We are going all out. Every game is a final!” he declared. He believes that if the team replicates the performance shown in their final NPFL match, they can overcome Gombe United and progress further in the tournament.
Ufere also expressed confidence in the team’s ability to win the trophy, citing the spirit and commitment displayed in their last league game. “If we show the commitment we showed in our last game, winning the trophy won’t be beyond us,” he said. As Enyimba prepares for the next phase of their season, the club’s leadership and fans are hopeful that this could be the turning point toward a return to continental football and a resurgence in domestic dominance.
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