Bendel Insurance Edge Ikorodu FC 2-1 in Thrilling NPFL Clash
Bendel Insurance FC secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ikorodu FC in a thrilling Matchday 26 encounter of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.
The match, which saw wasted chances, moments of brilliance, and a dramatic second half, was a much-needed victory for Insurance, especially after suffering a 3-0 defeat to Ikorodu FC in their first-leg clash earlier this season.
How the Action Unfolded
Despite dominating possession, Insurance struggled to find the back of the net in the first half. The Benin Arsenal had their first real chance in the 23rd minute, but Uche Collins failed to convert.
Ikorodu, on the other hand, had a quiet first half with no real attacking threats, except for a yellow card received by Sodeinde Moses in the 40th minute.
After a goalless first half, the second half came alive with Stanley Okorom breaking the deadlock in the 48th minute with a powerful volley. However, Ikorodu FC responded immediately, as Adelani Shola curled in a beautiful free-kick just three minutes later to level the score.
Insurance pushed forward in search of a winner, and their persistence paid off when Uche Collins redeemed himself in the 68th minute, calmly slotting home the decisive goal to send the home fans into jubilation.
Coaches React
Insurance head coach, Greg Ikhenoba, expressed relief at the crucial victory, acknowledging how important it was after their humbling loss to Ikorodu FC earlier in the season.
“Always, I will say thanks and glory to God because I knew it was going to be a very difficult game. This was the first team that defeated us 3-0 in the first round, and that was the beginning of the difficult situation we found ourselves in. But that is in the past. We give glory to God for today’s result.”
Looking ahead to their next game on Sunday, Ikhenoba emphasized staying focused:
“When you get to the river, you think of how to cross it. This game is gone now, and the next one is on Sunday. We keep our focus and tell the boys to do what they know how to do best.”
Meanwhile, Ikorodu FC’s head coach, Nuruden Aweroro, saw the match as a learning experience for his team:
“The result is not what I hoped for, but this is one of those matches that will teach me how to make the right corrections for the team.”
He also defended his team’s first-half performance, stating:
“I don’t think they played badly. They played according to the game’s situation. But we planned for a win, not a draw.”
Final Thoughts – A Well-Deserved Win for Insurance
For Bendel Insurance, this victory is more than just three points—it’s redemption after their earlier defeat to Ikorodu FC. The team will now turn their attention to their next fixture on Sunday, hoping to maintain their winning momentum.
For Ikorodu FC, the loss is a wake-up call as they analyze their weaknesses and aim to bounce back in their upcoming games.
What are your thoughts on this thrilling encounter? Do you think Insurance FC can build on this victory, or will Ikorodu FC come back stronger in their next match?
