Bendel Insurance Feeders Beat St. Andrews 2-1 to Advance

Bendel Insurance Feeders booked their place in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Edo FA Cup after a gritty 2-1 victory over St. Andrews Foundation FC. The match, played at the Crescent Club Field, saw Miracle Oshodin emerge as the star performer, netting both goals for the young Insurers.

Oshodin opened the scoring in the 7th minute with a composed finish after a well-placed cross from Samuel Eyide. He doubled the lead in the 48th minute, capitalising on a precise delivery from Chinedu Kelvin. A moment of controversy followed when Marvis seemingly extended the lead, but his goal was overturned after protests from the opposition and fans.

St. Andrews FC pulled a goal back just two minutes after play resumed, putting pressure on Insurance Feeders, who held firm until the final whistle. Team captain Osamuyi Egharevba was named Man of the Match and received a prize from the tournament sponsors, Peculiar Ultimate Concerns.

Bendel Insurance Feeders will now face either their senior team, Bendel Insurance FC, or Restoration FC, with the next match set to take place at the same venue. Meanwhile, City Rovers FC advanced after a walkover win due to FC Deltra FC’s absence.

Editorial

This victory for Bendel Insurance Feeders was not just a win; it was a demonstration of resilience, teamwork, and the growing quality of youth development within Nigerian football. Miracle Oshodin’s brace underlines the importance of having dynamic young players who can deliver when it matters. His performance, combined with the team’s collective effort, shows that youth football in Nigeria is on the rise.

However, the overturned goal calls for reflection on the impact of officiating decisions in local competitions. While it didn’t affect the outcome, it’s a reminder of how controversial decisions can influence team morale and outcomes. The need for consistent, unbiased officiating is essential if tournaments like the Edo FA Cup are to maintain credibility and attract wider attention.

As Bendel Insurance Feeders prepare for their next test, we believe they should focus on building momentum. Success at this stage can serve as a springboard for players aiming to break into the senior team or attract opportunities abroad. This tournament is not only about lifting a trophy it’s about nurturing talent and creating a pathway for future stars.

Did You Know?

1. Bendel Insurance Feeders is the youth team of Bendel Insurance FC, one of Nigeria’s most historic football clubs.
2. Miracle Oshodin, the match hero, has been one of the standout players in the team’s youth academy this season.
3. The Edo FA Cup is a regional tournament that serves as a qualification route to the National Federation Cup.
4. Bendel Insurance FC won their first Nigerian league title in 1973 and has remained a symbol of football in Edo State.
5. Youth tournaments in Nigeria have produced many national team players, including former Super Eagles stars like Peter Rufai and Sunday Oliseh.