Peters Returns to Bolster Enyimba Ahead of Remo Stars Showdown

Enyimba centre back Afolayan Peters is set to bolster the squad ahead of their high-stakes encounter with table toppers Remo Stars in Ikenne on Thursday. The former Heartland captain re-enters the matchday squad after serving a one-match suspension for a red card received during their Matchday 27 clash with Niger Tornadoes.

Peters, who joined the nine time NPFL champions in the January transfer window, is determined to help his side push for a top three finish and secure a continental ticket. Despite dropping points at home in a 1-1 draw against Bayelsa United, the defender believes Enyimba can close the gap in the title race.

“Our game against Remo Stars on Thursday is very crucial,” Peters said. “We are going to give it our best to ensure we secure all three points.”

Remo Stars have maintained an unbeaten record at home this season, but Peters is confident that tactical discipline and collective effort could tilt the tie in Enyimba’s favour.

“If we work collectively and play to instructions, we can achieve our aim, no doubt about that,” he stated.

Reflecting on the recent draw, Peters said the team had addressed their errors and shifted full focus to the upcoming clash. “Every game is an opportunity to get closer to our aim. The draw against Bayelsa United wasn’t what we wanted, but we’ve corrected our mistakes and are working hard to get a positive result in Ikenne,” he added.

Born in Ajegunle, Lagos, Peters is known for his resilience and leadership at the back. Enyimba, currently eighth with 43 points, will be looking to break Remo Stars’ 57-point lead as the 2024/2025 NPFL season nears its climax. The two sides have an even record, with four wins apiece and five draws in 13 meetings since 2016.

Editorial

We welcome the return of Afolayan Peters to Enyimba’s defensive line at a time when composure and grit are needed most. His availability for the clash against league leaders Remo Stars comes as a significant boost not only for the team’s on field dynamics but also for morale in the dressing room.

Too often in this league, the absence of key players through suspension or injury can derail a club’s campaign. Enyimba have already felt the sting of inconsistency, and their recent draw against Bayelsa United shows just how costly dropped points can be. Now, with the return of their dependable centre-back, they have a shot at stabilising their defence during the most demanding stretch of the season.

We believe Peters embodies what Enyimba need right now: leadership, accountability, and a hunger to return to the continental stage. His words resonate with urgency, but also with belief something this Enyimba squad must harness if they are to close the 14-point gap and climb the table.

Matches like this are not just about tactics they are about desire. Remo Stars are unbeaten at home for a reason, but records are made to be broken. The People’s Elephant must take heart from their shared head to head history and play with calculated aggression.

What remains critical is that they execute. There is little room left for excuses or missed chances. This is a defining stretch for Enyimba, and Peters’ return could well be the spark they need to reassert their place among Nigeria’s elite.

Did You Know?

1. Enyimba International FC are the most successful club in NPFL history, with eight league titles and two CAF Champions League trophies.
2. Remo Stars were only promoted to the NPFL in 2021 but have since become strong title contenders.
3. Afolayan Peters captained Heartland FC before transferring to Enyimba in January 2024.
4. The city of Ajegunle, where Peters hails from, is known for producing top football talent, including former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo.
5. Enyimba’s last appearance in the CAF Champions League group stage came in the 2020/2021 season.