Wydad Casablanca of Morroco on Sunday shocked Enyimba 1-0 at home in the opening match of the maiden edition of African football league played at Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Uyo.
The visitors got the lone goal of the game via a penalty when Enyimba’s skipper and goalkeeper caused a penalty kick against his side in the 39th minute and Yahya Jabrane wasted no time to convert from the spot.
It was a poor beginning for the Nigerian giants who will now go into the second leg of the game Wednesday with the hope to to overturn the scoreline and progress to the next round of the money-spinning tournament.
Daniel Daga, who at 16 became the youngest player to feature in the new tournament, as well as striker Joseph Atule had clear-cut chances to at least draw Enyimba level, but failed to hit target.
Another high point of the game was also when Enyimba defender Alalibo Orinate was sent off for a foul after the intervention of VAR at the stoppage time.
Meanwhile, Enyimba didn’t only attract backlash for their loss, the team has also come under attack for their poor branding in the game.
A player of the team, named Innocent with jersey number three was seen wearing a jersey with the number written at back with what many regard as chalk or tempo marker.
“Hello Chairman @papilokanu,
Na so you wan turn our great Enyimba to village club.This is shameful and embrassing.
The way CAF go throway Enyimba comot for this tournament next season no go funny.I am sad ðŸ˜.” posted a Journalist, Tobi Adepoju.
“$1,000,000 just for taking part.They nor even spend N1 to print name for jersey” posted Adewale Ajayi, another Journalist.
Another case of poor branding also emerged as the Assistant Coach of the club, Yemi Olanrewaju was seen wearing a cap with the logo of Celtics football club of Scotland.
These two scenarios has consequently irked football followers who believe that the People’s Elephant should set example for others to follow in terms of branding.