Elkanemi Warriors FC thrash UDIB 3-0 in CAF Confederation Cup opener

Posted : 07 September 2026

Elkanemi Warriors FC of Maiduguri began their CAF Confederation Cup campaign on a winning note, defeating UDIB of Guinea-Bissau 3-0 in the preliminary round at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, on Sunday.

The Nigerian side, popularly known as the Pride of the North, dominated proceedings for long periods but had to wait until the second half to break down a stubborn UDIB defence.

The encounter, which kicked off at 4 p.m., saw Elkanemi Warriors create several opportunities in the opening half, with Utibe Arit and Nnamdi Mejuobi posing a constant threat to the visitors.

Despite their attacking pressure and territorial advantage, the Warriors were unable to find the breakthrough before the interval, as UDIB's defensive organisation kept the scoreline at 0-0.

Elkanemi Warriors returned from the break with greater attacking intent and almost took the lead in the 48th minute when captain Usman Abbas tested the visitors' goalkeeper with a weaker-foot effort.

The pressure finally paid off in the 52nd minute when Mejuobi opened the scoring, calmly converting a well-worked opportunity after receiving a fine assist from Abbas.

The forward completed his brace four minutes later, converting from the penalty spot after Abubakar Abdullahi was brought down inside the box to give the Warriors a 2-0 advantage.

UDIB responded by pushing forward in search of a way back into the contest and created a few opportunities, but Elkanemi Warriors' defence remained resolute under the guidance of Technical Adviser King Emmanuel.

The hosts then put the result beyond doubt in the 88th minute following another penalty, awarded after Wahab Dayo was brought down inside the UDIB penalty area.

Bayo stepped up to take the spot kick, but his effort was saved by the Guinea-Bissau goalkeeper. Substitute Isaac Jonathan, however, reacted quickest to the rebound and fired home to make it 3-0.

The three minutes of additional time produced no further goals as the referee brought the contest to an end, handing Elkanemi Warriors a convincing victory.

The result gives the Babagana Umara Zulum boys a strong foundation as they continue their quest for continental success, with Mejuobi's brace and Jonathan's late goal highlighting their second-half dominance.

Full Time:

Elkanemi Warriors FC 3-0 UDIB FC

Goals:

Nnamdi Mejuobi — 52'

Nnamdi Mejuobi (pen.) — 56'

Isaac Jonathan — 88'

Elkanemi Warriors FC thrash UDIB 3-0 in CAF Confederation Cup opener

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