In a nail-biting showdown at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, Bendel Insurance Football Club secured a decisive 1-0 win against Sunshine Stars from Akure during Match Day 13 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The game’s solitary goal came from Benjamin Tanimu in the 4th minute, who converted a penalty kick after a Sunshine Stars defender handled a goal-bound shot inside the box, igniting the home crowd’s excitement.
After a disappointing loss in their previous match against Heartland FC, Insurance FC was hungry for victory, while the Owena Waves displayed unwavering determination throughout the game, despite conceding an early goal.
Insurance FC’s solid defense, led by Tanimu alongside Amas Obasogie, Sunday Anyanwu, Ebuka Akonbudu, Julius Emiloju, and Stephens Sodje, fiercely protected their lead against Sunshine Stars’ attacks.
This significant 1-0 win now propels the Benin Arsenals to the 5th position in the NPFL table, amassing 20 points from 13 matches played.
Looking ahead, Insurance FC gears up for an upcoming fixture against Katsina Utd during Match Day 14 next week.
Benjamin Tanimu’s exceptional performance earned him the Man of the Match award, presented by Festus Alenkhe JP, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Edo State council.
Alenkhe has been sponsoring the Insurance FC Man of the Match award for the past two seasons, contributing to motivating the players.
In a post-match interview, Coach Monday Odigie praised his team for their determination and resilience, emphasizing their continuous efforts to improve as the league progresses.