Bendel Insurance Football Club secured their first win of the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL season with a 1-0 victory against Shooting Stars. The match, held on October 2, 2024, at the Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, saw Micheal Enaruna score the decisive goal during stoppage time. His 22 yard strike sent the home fans into a frenzy as they celebrated the hard-fought win.
Odigie believes the victory will boost the confidence of his players as they prepare for their next home fixture against Elkanemi Warriors. He acknowledged that the team is still in a developmental phase but remains optimistic about their progress.
Bendel Insurance now has five points from four games this season.
Editorial
Bendel Insurance’s first win of the season against Shooting Stars is more than just three points; it is a testament to the team’s perseverance and potential. The late goal from Micheal Enaruna and the team’s resilience throughout the match show that they are capable of competing at a high level. However, as Coach Odigie pointed out, success in football requires more than just hard work on the pitch. It also depends on the unwavering support of the fans.
Coach Monday Odigie expressed his gratitude to the fans for their patience and support throughout the match, which he described as tough. However, he called for even more backing from supporters as the team continues to navigate the challenges of the league.
The NPFL is known for its unpredictability and fierce competition, and Bendel Insurance must continue to build on this momentum. Odigie’s call for more support from the fans highlights the importance of community in football, particularly in a league like the NPFL, where fan engagement can make a significant difference.
As Bendel Insurance prepares for their next game, we hope to see continued growth and a deeper connection between the team and its supporters. Victories like this one serve as a reminder of what is possible with determination and unity.
Did You Know?
- Bendel Insurance FC, based in Benin City, is one of Nigeria’s oldest football clubs, founded in 1972.
- The Nigeria Premier Football League NPFL is the top professional football division in Nigeria, featuring 20 teams.
- Micheal Enaruna’s stoppage time winner marked Bendel Insurance’s first win of the 2024/25 NPFL season.
- Shooting Stars, also known as 3SC, is based in Ibadan and is one of Nigeria’s most storied football clubs.
- Coach Monday Odigie has been with Bendel Insurance for several seasons, guiding them through promotion back to the NPFL.
