Doma United head coach Deji Ayeni says his side’s priority is to make a strong impression in the Nigeria Professional Football League after opening the 2026/27 season with three straight wins and no goals conceded.
The Savannah Tigers have also claimed a notable victory over Enyimba, and Ayeni believes the early success reflects the squad’s defensive organisation and determination to win. They now turn their attention to a meeting with Kano Pillars as they attempt to extend their perfect start.
“It is too early to judge any team at the moment, but the most important thing is that our set objective is to make a very good impression in the league,” Ayeni told Completespots.com.
“And if we are to win the league title, so be it. But we want to compete well and be at the top and want to make an impression on Nigerian football and stakeholders.”
Ayeni said the result against Enyimba had particular significance because of his previous connection with the club. He coached Enyimba before taking charge of Doma United and used that knowledge to prepare his players for the contest.
“Concerning the game against Enyimba, it was a game that everybody had been waiting for, and I am happy that we prepared well, and the players responded very well,” he said.
“Don’t forget that Enyimba is a team I coached last before joining Doma United. So Enyimba is my former team, and I know the club very well.”
The Doma United manager told his players that overcoming one of Nigeria’s biggest clubs would provide an opportunity to raise their profile.
“I made the boys know that they can make a name through Enyimba because they are a big club in Africa and Nigeria as well,” said Ayeni.
“I told the players that if they are able to withstand the tenacity and pressure of Enyimba, then it becomes big news. I am delighted that the players came to the party and got the three points against Enyimba.”
Despite the unbeaten run and clean-sheet record, Ayeni insisted Doma United must continue to improve gradually rather than look too far ahead.
“There is one thing they call graduation in performance, and we approach games one step at a time,” he said. “According to the game plans, every team determines the response of the players.”
Kano Pillars’ reputation will provide another test, but Ayeni is confident his team can take something from the game.
“Yes, Kano Pillars is a household name and has a big pedigree in Nigerian football, but one thing we must understand is that it’s a game of 90 minutes and 11 players,” he added.
“I am confident Doma United will get a positive result against Kano Pillars. We just want to remain humble and focus.”