Nine-time Nigerian champions, Enyimba FC, are set to reignite their rivalry with Rivers United this Sunday in a highly anticipated Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 27 fixture. The match will kick off at 4 pm at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt.

This encounter pits two long-standing adversaries against each other in what has become one of the most fiercely contested fixtures in the domestic top flight.

Speaking ahead of the mouthwatering encounter, Enyimba defender and former Rivers United player, Paul Odeh, expressed unwavering confidence in his team’s preparations and mindset ahead of the crucial clash.

The left-back revealed that the mood in the camp has been exceptionally positive, particularly since the arrival of the club’s new Technical Adviser. He noted that the players are fully aware of the fixture’s significance.

“Preparations for the game have been good. Everyone is in shape and working hard. We understand what is at stake and we are focused on going to Port Harcourt to make a statement,” Odeh told to Enyimba Media unit after their final training session on Friday,

Reflecting on the goalless draw in the reverse fixture in Aba, Odeh maintained that ‘The People’s Elephant’ are more than capable of securing a result away from home.

“The first leg ended 0-0 in Aba. If they could come to our ground and get a draw, we believe we can also go there and pick up points. We are optimistic about getting a positive result this weekend,” he added.

Odeh further emphasised the team’s strong determination to improve their current league standing.

“Our position on the table is not encouraging, and we want to change that. Everyone is pushing to ensure we get a good result and build momentum for the matches ahead.”

Since 2016, these two sides have met 21 times in the league, with Rivers United claiming nine victories, Enyimba six, and six matches ending in draws. Sunday’s fixture presents another opportunity to reshape this narrative.

Enyimba will still be without suspended striker Bassey John, while goalkeepers Anozie Chinedu and Kevin Ogunga remain sidelined due to injury. Mid-season signing Daniel Simon is also unavailable. However, full-back Uwana Asuquo is pushing for a return to action.

With pride, valuable points, and league positioning all on the line, Sunday’s clash in Port Harcourt is expected to deliver another compelling chapter in the rivalry between ‘The People’s Elephant’ and ‘The Pride of Rivers’.

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