Bendel Insurance Football Club’s head coach, Monday Odigie, praised the organizers and sponsors of the Governor Diri Douye Preseason Football Tournament after a dramatic finale in Yenagoa, Bayelsa, on August 18, 2024. Despite a narrow 7-6 loss in the penalty shootout to Bayelsa United following a 1-1 draw in regular time, the Benin Arsenals took home the silver cup.
Odigie commended the high standards of the tournament, which brought together seven Premier League clubs and provided an excellent opportunity for teams to prepare for the upcoming Nigeria Premier League season. He emphasized the value of the competition, stating, What can we say other than to appreciate the organizers They have done well.
While Bendel Insurance narrowly missed out on the title, Odigie expressed satisfaction with his team’s overall performance. He highlighted the tournament as a key moment to evaluate new players and fine tune strategies for the 2024/25 season.
Bendel Insurance’s path to the final included a 1-0 victory over Krusaders Feeders, followed by a hard fought 1-1 draw with Rivers United, and a goalless draw against Kwara United in their final group stage match. Odigie reiterated the tournament’s significance in helping teams gear up for the challenges ahead.
Editorial
It is always refreshing to witness a competition that not only showcases top tier talent but also provides valuable preparation for the upcoming football season. The Governor Diri Douye Preseason Football Tournament did just that, and on Monday Odigie’s words of appreciation towards the organizers reflect the sentiments of many involved in the event. This tournament was more than just a trophy chase it was a chance for teams to refine their skills and assess their squads.
As spectators, we are often caught up in the final scores and the championship celebrations, but tournaments like this remind us that the journey is just as important as the destination. Bendel Insurance may have lost the final by the slimmest of margins, but their performance throughout the tournament demonstrated their readiness for the season ahead. Odigie’s calm reflection on the loss reveals a coach who understands the bigger picture it’s not about winning every preseason match, but about preparing a team that can compete consistently at the highest level.
The presence of seven Premier League clubs competing with discipline and determination speaks volumes about the quality of football on display. The competition helped to strengthen team unity, test new players, and provide real time tactical learning. The Governor Diri Douye Preseason Tournament is not just an exhibition of football but a breeding ground for future success. As teams move forward, the lessons learned here will prove invaluable for the challenges they face in the coming season.
We believe this preseason competition has set a high standard for future tournaments. The organizers should take pride in knowing that they have created a meaningful and competitive platform. It’s the foundation of great football stories yet to be written, and Bendel Insurance, despite their loss, will walk away stronger and more prepared for what’s to come.
Did You Know?
- Bendel Insurance FC was founded in 1972 and has a rich history in Nigerian football.
- The club is based in Benin City, Edo State, and their nickname is The Benin Arsenals.
- The Governor Diri Douye Preseason Tournament features some of Nigeria’s top football clubs in preparation for the new season.
- Bendel Insurance FC won the Nigerian FA Cup twice, in 1978 and 1980.
- Bayelsa United, the team that defeated Bendel Insurance in the final, won the Nigerian FA Cup in 2021.
