Bendel Insurance Extends Unbeaten Streak
The Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) witnessed contrasting fortunes for some of its leading contenders this past weekend. While Bendel Insurance continued their imperious form, extending their unbeaten run to an impressive 12 games, the clash between Doma United and Kwara United ended in a stalemate.
In Benin City, the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium played host to a tense encounter between Bendel Insurance and Kwara United. The home side, under the astute guidance of manager Austin Eguavoen, entered the match brimming with confidence after a string of impressive results. Kwara United, meanwhile, were seeking to bounce back from a disappointing defeat in their previous outing.
The opening exchanges were cagey, with both teams canceling each other out in midfield. However, Bendel Insurance gradually asserted their dominance, controlling possession and creating several promising opportunities. The deadlock was finally broken in the 72nd minute, courtesy of a well-taken strike by striker Ismaila Seriki. The substitute pounced on a loose ball in the box and unleashed a powerful shot that left Kwara United goalkeeper Dele Aiyenugba with no chance.
Despite conceding a late goal, Kwara United pushed for an equalizer, but the Bendel Insurance defense held firm to secure a hard-fought victory. The win extends their unbeaten run in the league to 12 games, solidifying their position at the top of Group A. Speaking after the match, a jubilant Eguavoen praised his team’s resilience: “It was a tough game, but I’m proud of the way my boys fought until the very end. We are taking it one game at a time, but this is a great feeling to be on top of the table.”
Doma United and Kwara United Share the Spoils
Elsewhere in Gombe, Doma United hosted Kwara United in a match that promised attacking fireworks. Both sides possess talented attackers, and the fans were treated to an entertaining encounter. Doma United, buoyed by their passionate home crowd, started brightly, creating several early chances.
However, Kwara United gradually grew into the game, showcasing their attacking prowess. The two sides exchanged blows throughout the first half, but neither could find the back of the net. The second half mirrored the first, with both teams threatening but failing to convert their opportunities. The final whistle blew on a 0-0 scoreline, a result that neither side would have been entirely satisfied with.
Doma United manager Mohammed Lawal lamented the missed opportunities: “We had a few good chances, especially in the first half, but we couldn’t take them. We will learn from this and come back stronger in our next game.” His counterpart from Kwara United, Bashir Makail, echoed these sentiments: “It’s a disappointing result, but we have to take the positives and move on. We need to be more clinical in front of goal.”
The Title Race Heats Up
The results from this weekend’s fixtures have thrown the NPFL title race wide open. Bendel Insurance remain the clear favorites in Group A, but their challengers, including Kano Pillars and Enyimba, will be looking to capitalize on any slip-ups. In Group B, the battle for supremacy is even more intriguing, with Rivers United, Akwa United, and Rangers all vying for top spot.
As the season progresses, the coming weeks promise to be filled with captivating encounters and thrilling storylines. Can Bendel Insurance maintain their unbeaten streak? Will the likes of Kano Pillars and Enyimba mount a serious challenge in Group A? And who will emerge victorious in the tightly contested Group B title race? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the NPFL is delivering enthralling football for its passionate fans.
