In a highly anticipated showdown between two footballing powerhouses, defending champions Enyimba FC and Federation Cup holders Bendel Insurance FC clashed in a fierce battle over the weekend that ended in a hard-fought 0-0 draw at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.
The match, part of Match Day 21 of the Nigeria Premier Football League, saw both teams showcasing their strength and skill, with neither able to break through the opposition’s defence.
Despite late attempts from both sides, including a close call from Bendel Insurance’s substitute Evans Ogbonda, neither team could find the back of the net, resulting in a deadlock.
Coaches Monday Odigie and George Finidi expressed their views on the match, with Odigie calling for improved officiating, while Finidi acknowledged the challenges of football.
The result leaves both teams with a point, setting the stage for future encounters as Bendel Insurance faces Shooting Stars and Plateau Utd in upcoming away fixtures.
In the post-match interview, coaches of the two teams Monday Odigie and George Finidi expressed dissatisfaction with the officiating of the game and called for improved game management by the referees to encourage the players and free flow of football games.
Enyimba gaffer George Finidi was happy with the result, noting that Insurance, Enyimba encounters have always been difficult.
He added that referees are human beings and are bound to make mistakes. ‘You could see that I was complaining as Coach Monday was also doing the same thing on his end, so, football is sometimes very difficult.
Coach Monday wanted to win while we also wanted to win or at least get something out of it.'”
