The Maiduguri-based El Kanemi Warriors have suffered an early exit from the CAF Confederation Cup, becoming the first Nigerian club to be eliminated from the competition this season.
The team’s 2-1 defeat to Dadje FC of Benin in Cotonou on Saturday resulted in a 3-2 aggregate loss, ending their campaign in the Preliminary Round.
In the first leg played last weekend in Ikenne, El Kanemi managed to secure a 1-1 draw, thanks to a 95th-minute header from substitute Gimba Ajiji. However, they were unable to maintain their momentum in the return leg, succumbing to defeat and exiting the competition.
This setback comes on the heels of Benin Republic’s recent success against Nigeria, having recorded a famous victory over the Super Eagles in a 2026 World Cup qualifier just two months ago. The two teams will face off again on September 7 in Uyo, this time for the 2025 AFCON qualifying tournament.
Meanwhile, Enyimba, the other Nigerian club in the CAF Confederation Cup, received a bye in this round and will aim to make a significant impact when they enter the competition. Notably, no Nigerian club has ever claimed the CAF Confederation Cup title, with Enyimba having won the CAF Champions League twice.
The defeat for El Kanemi serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Nigerian clubs in continental competitions. Despite their efforts, they were unable to overcome the hurdle posed by Dadje FC, and their campaign has come to an end.
