Aiyenugba contented with role

Aiyenugba who replaced Nigeria first choice Enyeama three minutes into stoppage time and saved two spot kicks to edge the champions ahead confessed that he got strong inspirations from his rival.

“What happened in Tunis wouldn’t have been possible if not for Vincent and my team mates.

“He [Vincent] kept assuring me that I could do it and I didn’t let him down. It’s better to always wait on your time to deliver and that was exactly what I did.

“Despite intimidation and coin throwing by fans of Esperance, I just kept my cool because there was absolutely no second chance when it comes to spot kicks,” said Aiyenugba.

The former national U-23 goalkeeper hope to play another significant role when called upon as Enyimba seek to become only the second club after 1967 and 1968 winners Tout Puissant Englebert of the Democratic Republic of Congo to successfully defend the title.

“It will not be easy to retain the cup but we have a strong spirit and bond to achieve such a glorious feat. No one gave us any chance against Esperance but we conquered against all odds.

“Who knows I might be in between the sticks again saving penalties and that would really be great,” Aiyenugba joked.

Enyimba coach Okey Emordi revealed that the penalty tactics and substitution had been in their plans before it eventually happened.

“We realised that Esperance had won against Etoile on penalties in the Tunisian cup few days back and there was every possibility that a 1-1 draw could leave us with that lottery.

“Aiyenugba is better than Vincent at spot kicks and he turned out to be the match winner for us. He’s a thorough professional who never complained being left on the bench.

“We are banking on him and others to help us in our quest to retain the cup.

The Nigerian side travel to Sousse, Tunisia for the opening leg of this year's tie on 5 December against Etoile Sportive du Sahel.

Nigeria's commercial nerve-centre Lagos, will host the second leg on 12 December.