When Enyimba confirmed that their captain, Austin Oladapo had been suspended by CAF, it came as a shock to many fans. The thought of missing their beloved captain for one year was mentally excruciating for the fans
Finally, the suspension was reduced and Austin Oladapo would return in January 2022. Although nobody is indispensable in football, Austin’s absence was felt. The new players in the team did well in his absence and that surely would have made the captain proud
Just few days before Enyimba’s game against 3SC in Aba, Enyimba announced on their social media pages that their captain was back and to give the fans a foretaste of what was to come, they posted one of Oladapo’s long range goals. The fans jubilated and waited eagerly for his first kick of the ball
So on Sunday, January 9 2022, the captain returned. He is loved by fans. As the team stepped onto the pitch to warm up, the fans raised the roof. That was their first time of seeing the captain in 6 months or more and they did not hold back their joy. Oladapo applauded the fans and he wore a heartfelt smile as he clapped the fans
3SC’s defense was strong and difficult to break down. Coach Finidi George called on his captain to bring his experience to bear. As he stood on the touchlines, the fans again showed their approval with an ovation, such that those outside the stadium would think a goal had been scored–that is how the fans love their captain
He replaced Fatai Abdullahi who had been impressive too. His first touch on the ball was a freekick and he reminded the fans that “Austin Oladapo is back.” He set the ball and unleashed a ferocious shot on target but his effort was saved by Charles Tambe
He changed the midfield, switching play from left to right, trying flicks; just what the fans knew him for.
The moment of glory came when he saw Abdulwasiu Mahmud running behind the defenders and he split the 3SC defense with a sublime pass, then Wasiu crossed the ball and Godwin Emmanuel guided the ball home. What a moment it was! The atmosphere became euphoric, the goal returned vigour to the team and fans. He nearly got an assist when his fine flick met Orok whose shot narrowly missed Tambe’s net
It was indeed a thrilling return for the people’s captain, the captain of the People’s Elephants.