'True champions must be ready to face anyone' - Enyimba coach reacts to tough CAF draw

'True champions must be ready to face anyone' - Enyimba coach reacts to tough CAF draw

Hassan Abdulsalam 15:09 - 08.10.2024

Enyimba has been drawn into the group of death for their CAF Confederations Cup.

Enyimba head coach Yemi Olanrewaju has expressed his team's readiness to face the challenges posed by their CAF Confederation Cup group.

The nine-time Nigerian champions were drawn in Group B alongside the defending champions Zamalek, Al Masry, and Black Bulls.

Despite being drawn into a group with experienced continental campaigners, Olanrewaju believes that Enyimba can compete at the highest level.

He highlighted his team's strong performances in the domestic league and the month-long preparation period they have to prepare ahead.

"While we might have preferred a less challenging group, true champions know they must be ready to face anyone.

Enyimba boss Yemi Olanrewaju is determined to defeat Filante.
Enyimba boss Yemi Olanrewaju is determined to defeat Filante.

"This is the toughest group in the competition, but this is Enyimba FC. We will do everything we can to uphold the club's name and fight to advance. We know it will be challenging," coach Olanrewaju told Flashscore.

Olarewaju not underrating any team

Olanrewaju also emphasised the importance of not overlooking Black Bulls from Mozambique, a team that may be less familiar to many but could pose a significant threat.

"Everyone is focused on Al Masry and Zamalek, but nobody is mentioning Black Bulls from Mozambique. Nobody knows much about them, and I find teams that are less familiar to be more intimidating; they can catch you off guard when you least expect it," he added.

Despite the pressure from Enyimba fans, Olanrewaju remains focused on delivering a strong performance and making the club proud.

Nigerian giants Enyimba are through to the CAFCC group stage.

"Of course, we are ready. The boys have been performing well in the league, currently sitting in second place with four wins and one loss. Having qualified from the last stage, I believe my team is prepared, but we can definitely improve to compete effectively at this level, to be honest.

"I'm pleased that we have at least a month to prepare before the continental games begin. This time will allow us to enhance our performance and focus on our development to get ready for the challenges ahead.

32-year-old Yemi Olanrewaju, the Enyimba coach.

"There is always pressure because coaching Enyimba comes with pressure because we have demanding fans who want you to win always. Although the current generation of players differs from the previous ones that won the CAF Champions League consecutively – both in terms of quality, personnel, and mentality the expectation (from fans) remains unchanged.

"These demands have consistently kept us on our toes, pushing us to achieve success for the club. Even when faced with pressure, we avoid adding unnecessary stress but always remain focused on making the club proud at all times," Olanrewaju stated.

Enyimba will travel to Egypt on October 27th for their first game against Al Masry Sporting Club.

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