Nigeria: Champions League – Pillars, Enyimba On the Precipice

Jacob Ajom

3 April 2011

When players and officials of Pillars Football Club of Kano file out against visiting Wydad de Casablanca at the Sani Abacha stadium today, one thing that would be uppermost on their minds after falling 2-0 in the first leg of the CAF Champions League to their guests is revenge.

For Coach Ladan Bosso and his wards, it is only by avenging the first leg loss that the team can dream of progressing to the group stage of the competition.

From all indications, Pillars will have difficult customers as a two-goal deficit in modern football poses an uphill task for the disadvantaged club.

But coach Bosso and his wards have promised Nigerians of a very successful campaign this year as they have vowed to exceed their 2009 semi final efforts.

“We are ready for the challenge,” Ladan had promised before their departure to Morocco penultimate weekend. Bosso was supported by club chairman, Babangida Turkur who said the players were highly motivated and ready to roar. He only called on Nigerians to support the team and victory would be assured.

But with a two goal deficit, it appears Pillars are on the precipice. Yet there is a possibility that Pillars can still pull it off on a pitch that heightens their invincibility as many who have dared Pillars there have left with their tales between their legs.

For Enyimba, the job is no less lighter. After a 0-0 draw from the first leg against U.S. Bitam of Gabon, the Peoples Elephant should be able to scale through to the next round. The two-time African champions have all it takes to send their Gabonese visitors back with empty hands. But make no mistake as the tie is still 50-50 for both teams.

It is even worse for Enyimba that a goal scored by Bitam may count as two in the event of a draw because of the away goal rule. That is why Enyimba’s defence line led by Chijioke Ejiogu in goal must not drop their guards. They must not lose concentration throughout the encounter which will be decided at the Enyimba International stadium in Aba today.

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