Former El-Kanemi midfielder confident nine-time champions can secure positive result in Maiduguri.

Eyimba FC

Salman Abubakar has expressed strong confidence that Enyimba can deliver a “yuletide gift” to their fans with a positive result against El-Kanemi Warriors in Sunday’s Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 18 fixture at the El-Kanemi Stadium in Maiduguri.

The former El-Kanemi midfielder, speaking after the team’s safe arrival in the city, highlighted the positive mood in the camp.

“We are delighted to have arrived at Maiduguri safely, and the mood among the players is good. We are ready for the encounter on Sunday,” Abubakar said.

Drawing on his personal connections, he added: “As a former player of Elkanemi, Henry Ndedi and I, we have a couple of friends in this great city, and we expect them to give us their support.”

However, his focus remained on the task: “We are here in Maiduguri for a positive result, and God willing, we will work hard and with the support of our fans to get something tomorrow.”

The 3pm kick-off promises a keenly contested pre-Christmas battle, with Enyimba holding a historical edge, winning eight of the 16 top-flight meetings since 2013, against four for El-Kanemi and four draws.

Despite recent encouragement from their home performance against Kwara United, the People’s Elephant travel hampered by injuries and suspensions. Defenders Agu Samuel, Fabian Nwaorie, Joel Ezra, and suspended Afolayan Peters are unavailable, while Paul Odeh misses out for family reasons.

Coach Lawrence Ukaegbu’s side will aim to overcome these setbacks and finish the first round on a high note.