Bendel Insurance Football Club of Benin endured a disappointing outing as they succumbed to a 2-0 defeat against former league champions Plateau United in a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) encounter.
The match, held at the New Jos International Stadium, saw Plateau United seize control with a commanding performance, leaving the Benin Arsenals grappling for form after their recent 1-0 loss to Shooting Stars in Ibadan.
Plateau United broke the deadlock in the 51st minute, courtesy of Alexander Enejo’s clinical finish, setting the tone for the hosts’ dominance.
Barnabas Daniel extended the lead in the 67th minute, capitalizing on a defensive error to double the advantage for Plateau United.
Despite a goalless first half with opportunities for both sides, Insurance coach Monday Odigie made tactical substitutions in the 60th minute, aiming to bolster his team’s attacking prowess.
However, the efforts of substitutes Michael Enaruna, Divine Nwachukwu, and Wisdom Stephens were thwarted by Plateau United’s resolute defense.
Enaruna came close to reducing the deficit with a powerful strike in the 76th minute, but his effort struck the crossbar, denying Insurance a lifeline.
Evans Ogbonda’s free-kick also posed a threat, but Plateau United goalkeeper Suraj Ayeleso made a crucial save to maintain the clean sheet.
Reflecting on their previous encounter, where Bendel Insurance emerged victorious with a 1-0 win at home, the team now seeks redemption as they prepare to face Gombe United in their upcoming match on Friday, March 8.
With the revised fixture set to take place in Benin, Bendel Insurance aims to bounce back from their recent setbacks and secure a positive result against Gombe United, whom they defeated in their previous meeting.
