'Master vs Apprentice' - Ex-Super Eagles boss Finidi George to clash with 32-year-old former number 2 Yema

Yemi Olanrewaju (left) was an assistant to Finidi George when they won the NPFL two seasons ago. (Photo Credit: Enyimba/X)

'Master vs Apprentice' - Ex-Super Eagles boss Finidi George to clash with 32-year-old former number 2 Yema

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 13:29 - 27.09.2024

Former Super Eagles boss Finidi George is set for a showdown with his ex-assistant when Rivers United host Enyimba in the NPFL.

A captivating narrative unfolds in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) this Super Sunday as former colleagues Finidi George and Yemi Olanrewaju face off in a highly anticipated clash between Rivers United and Enyimba.

The encounter, set to take place in Port Harcourt, pits the experienced Finidi George, former Super Eagles coach and current Rivers United manager, against his one-time protégé, 32-year-old Olanrewaju, now at the helm of Enyimba.

Both NPFL giants enter the match in fine form, with unbeaten records to protect.

Finidi's Rivers United have secured two wins and a draw from their opening three fixtures, while Olanrewaju's Enyimba boast a perfect start with two victories from two games.

Finidi George has enjoyed an unbeaten start to life at Rivers United. (Photo Credit: Trendy Faith/X)

Just a single point separates the teams in the league standings, although Rivers have played one game more.

This match marks the first time these two tacticians have faced each other since Finidi's departure from Enyimba for a brief, tumultuous spell with the national team.

Ex-Enyimba boss Finidi George (right) and assistant, Yemi Olanrewaju (left) during an NPFL match.
Yemi Olanrewaju (left) was an assistant to Finidi George when they won the NPFL two seasons ago. (Photo Credit: Enyimba/X)

Their shared history adds an intriguing layer to the contest, as Olanrewaju served as Finidi's assistant at Enyimba for over two seasons from September 2022.

During their time together, the duo led Enyimba to a record-extending ninth NPFL title.

Olanrewaju is ready to face his former boss.

Following Finidi's exit, Olanrewaju initially took charge on an interim basis before being confirmed as permanent manager in August ahead of the new season.

The young coach has hit the ground running, guiding Enyimba to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup while maintaining an unblemished league record.

Finidi George, former Super Eagles head coach || X

His early success sets the stage for a compelling tactical battle against his former mentor.

With both teams in good form and the added spice of personal history, this master and apprentice clash promises to be a highlight of the NPFL weekend.

Finidi George led Enyimba to their 9th NPFL title two seasons ago but left for bigger things. | Facebook

The match not only carries significance for the league standings but also serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of Nigerian football, where a new generation of coaches is making its mark alongside established figures.

Kickoff is scheduled for Sunday afternoon in Port Harcourt, with both Finidi George and Yemi Olanrewaju keen to claim victory in this battle of wits between former colleagues turned rivals.