Sunday, April 10, 2016

Aigbogun: Enyimba respects Etoile challenge

COACH Paul Aigbogun says the Nigeria Premier League seven times kings, Enyimba respects Etoile du Sahel.
Both teams battle it out at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium for a place in the money winning group stage of the CAF Champions League for the first time since 2011 when the Aba Millionaires defeated them in the finals.
"Of course we can't be bothered by what Etoile have won, we know they are a good team and we respect them, just as we respect the other teams we have played so far and eliminated from the competition," he told the Peoples Elephants website.
"It is what happens on the day that is most important. They may be former African champions but so too is Enyimba, so we are not concentrating on that. Our focus is on us, to deliver today. I believe if the boys come out and play as we have planned, we will get victory.
"The quality of our opponents will make it a tough game, but tough games are good for the team and we are all prepared for it, psychologically and physically."
Aigbogun was however quick to point out that this first leg wasn't win or bust for his side.
"It is important that we win at home, everyone wants to win at home, but the thing is, this a two-legged tie, so it is vital that we come out on top after two legs. Despite the outcome of Sunday's game, it is important for us to keep our eyes on qualification, that's our task and that should be our motivation.
"At this stage of the tournament no team is big and none is small. To get here is a tough task and you must prepare adequately for any team, whether they happen to be former champions or not. How the players play on Sunday will determine who wins and I'm looking forward to the match."
Returning to the club's ground in Aba remains something Aigbogun longs for and he reiterated the significance of playing in front of a packed stadium by saying: "We would have loved to play in Aba and benefit from the support of thousands of our fans. Huge crowds energize players and make games much more interesting. No team likes to play away from home but we have had two positive results in Port Harcourt, so we just have to take on this game with the confidence that we would get a third good result after 90 minutes.
"My appeal is for our fans to show up, including Port Harcourt residents and cheer the boys, give the place some energy. Some fans showed up in our last game and we would love to see more of that, but whatever happens, I'm sure we would have a good game."