Enyimba head coach Emmanuel Deutsch has backed his players despite the club opening the new Nigeria Premier Football League season with a defeat.
The Aba giants fell 2-1 to Niger Tornadoes at the Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna on Sunday.
Aliyu Goyi put the hosts ahead from the penalty spot five minutes before half-time.
Enyimba responded after the break, with Wonah Williams heading home in the 71st minute to bring the visitors level.
Niger Tornadoes, however, had the final say as Michael Olalusi struck seven minutes from full-time to secure all three points.
Despite the setback, Deutsch praised his players for their performance in what was a closely fought contest.
“Losing the opening match does not mean you have lost the league. I think it was a very good game.
“For the game, totally, I’m impressed because the pre-season was very hard,” Deutsch told the club’s media.
Enyimba will look to record their first points of the campaign when they face Doma United in their next league fixture.
