Enyimba’s chances of advancing to the next stage of the CAF Confederation Cup suffered a major setback after a 1-1 home draw against Egyptian side Al Masry on Sunday.
The People’s Elephants needed a win in their penultimate Group D fixture to boost their qualification hopes, but they found themselves trailing early in the match. Mohamed Hashem scored for the visitors in the 8th minute, capitalizing on a short corner routine. An unmarked Hashem met a flicked pass in the box to give Al Masry the lead.
Enyimba pressed hard for an equalizer, but their efforts did not yield results in the first half. However, just two minutes into the second half, Ifeanyi Ihemekwele leveled the score with his second consecutive competition goal.
In the 58th minute, head coach, Stanley Eguma introduced 2013 AFCON winner Brown Ideye, who had previously scored in their victory over Black Bulls. Despite his experience and efforts, Ideye could not secure the winning goal for Enyimba.
Al Masry had an opportunity to reclaim the lead in the 68th minute, but Super Eagles B goalkeeper Ani Ozoemena made a crucial save from the penalty spot to deny the visitors.
The draw leaves Enyimba third in Group D with five points. To advance to the next round, they face a daunting task: defeating group leaders Zamalek, who have already secured their progression and have little at stake, in Egypt next Sunday. Additionally, Enyimba will need Black Bulls to beat Al Masry at home in Mozambique to keep their qualification hopes alive.
