"To repel the attack" means to successfully defend oneself or one's team against an aggressive or harmful action from an opponent. It implies pushing back or preventing the attack from causing harm. Full definition
The Nigerian Army on Saturday said its troops successfully repelled attack by Boko Haram insurgents at Gamboru - Ngala in Borno. (newsdiaryonline.com)
The Nigerian Army on Thursday said its troops successfully repelled attack coordinated by Boko Haram insurgents at Jidari - Polo area of Maiduguri. (newsdiaryonline.com)
Having repelled the attacks of both Pharisees and Sadducees, he now carries the war into the enemy's territory. (religion-online.org)