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Dethroned NPFL champions Enyimba will have to play in CAF's second-tier competition the CAFCC after a late win against Plateau United.
It was a nail-biting finish at the Enyimba International Stadium as dethroned Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) champions Enyimba snatched a vital 2-0 victory over Plateau United in the final league match.
Despite throwing open their gates for free in a bid to attract more fans, the record NPFL winners Enyimba were made to sweat until the final 12 minutes before finally overcoming their visitors on Sunday evening in Aba.
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Enyimba pick CAFCC Spot
Striker Chijioke Mbaoma, who had missed several opportunities earlier in the game, and Alade Balogun emerged as the heroes, scoring in the 78th and 88th minutes respectively to secure the win for the People's Elephant.
The victory was crucial for Enyimba, as they needed an outright win to seal a spot in the CAF Confederation Cup (CAFCC) - the second-tier continental competition.
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With Shooting Stars locked in a direct battle with the dethroned champions, Enyimba knew they had to win to ensure their place in the continental showpiece next season.
However, the game was not without its drama. After 75 minutes, Enyimba were in danger of not only losing their title but also missing out on continental football altogether, as Shooting Stars were leading already relegated Sporting Lagios 1-0 in Ibadan.
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But Mbaoma and Balogun's late heroics ensured that Enyimba would represent Nigeria in the CAFCC next season, as they finished the campaign in third place.
The victory was a bittersweet one for the record champions, who had relinquished their NPFL crown to Southeast rivals Rangers International.
However, they will now have the chance to redeem themselves on the continental stage in the CAFCC.
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