“Home Advantage” — Deutsch blames one factor for Enyimba’s 2-0 loss to Kano Pillars
Enyimba head coach Emmanuel Deutsch has remained confident in his team’s survival hopes despite their 2-0 defeat to Kano Pillars in a Matchday 31 clash of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The result leaves Enyimba in a tight position near the relegation zone, while Kano Pillars gained crucial ground with the win.
Enyimba vs Kano Pillars: Deutsch points to home edge
Kano Pillars made their advantage count early, with Chiedozie Okorie opening the scoring just 11 minutes into the game.
Ahmed Musa doubled the lead before half-time, giving the hosts full control heading into the break.
The home side held on comfortably in the second half, sealing a result that lifted Kano Pillars to 13th on the table with 39 points.
Enyimba, meanwhile, slipped to 16th with 36 points as the pressure continues to mount in the NPFL relegation battle.
After the match, Deutsch highlighted the impact of playing at home as the key difference between both sides.
“It was a difficult match. We played against a spirited Kano Pillars side. Going into the game, both teams were in the danger zone, and the home team had a reason to win,” Deutsch said.
Kano Pillars boost survival hopes as Enyimba stay positive
Despite the setback, the Enyimba boss remains optimistic about his team’s chances of staying in the NPFL.
He stressed that the context of the match—two struggling teams fighting for survival—favoured Kano Pillars.
“Both of us were at the bottom; they were at home, and they took that advantage.
“Enyimba will maintain their position in the Premier League. I’m very optimistic about that. Enyimba will survive at the end of the season.”
The result gives Kano Pillars renewed momentum in their fight to avoid relegation, while Enyimba must quickly regroup ahead of a crucial fixture.
Enyimba will now turn their attention to the Oriental Derby against Abia Warriors in Aba, a game that could prove decisive in their push to remain in the top flight.
Deutsch confirmed his side will return home and prepare fully for the encounter as the season enters its final stretch.
