- Edo State Sports Commission Chairman Amadin Enabulele hailed Bendel’s performance for their turnaround from relegation battles to 7th place
- Captain Meyiwa Oritseweyinmi was named Man of the Match and received a ₦150,000 award
- Notably, Rivers United have now closed the gap on Remo Stars to eight points with a 1-0 win over Niger Tornadoes
Bendel Insurance delivered a statement victory on Saturday, March 8, as they stunned Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) leaders Remo Stars with a thrilling 2-1 win at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.
The Benin Arsenals, who were battling relegation earlier in the season, continued their resurgence in style, thanks to a spectacular brace from their captain, Meyiwa Oritseweyinmi. His two well-taken goals proved enough to secure all three points against the high-flying Sky Blue Boys in the matchday 28 fixture.
Following the remarkable win, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Desmond Enabulele, lavished praise on the team for their exceptional performance. Speaking to journalists on Sunday, March 9, he described their display as “superlative” and credited the players and coaching staff for their hard work and dedication.
Enabulele acknowledged the club’s drastic transformation, pointing out their successful climb from relegation struggles to a comfortable 7th position on the league table.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the team’s growth and ensuring the welfare of both players and officials,
“This victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players and coaching staff. When we came in, Bendel Insurance was battling relegation, but today, the transformation is evident. I must commend the team captain, Meyiwa Oritseweyinmi, for proving his worth. The team is moving in the right direction, and we are confident of breaking into the top four,” Enabulele stated.
At the end of the game, Oritseweyinmi was named Man of the Match and received a ₦150,000 award, presented by Edo State Commissioner for Information, Paul Ohonbamu.
Meanwhile, Rivers United reduced the gap to league leaders Remo Stars to eight points after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes.
Samson Obi’s 83rd-minute strike ensured Rivers United moved up to 46 points after 28 games, while Remo Stars remained on 54 points.
Rivers United coach expressed confidence in their push for the title, stating,
"We are working towards something, and let’s see at the end of the day if we can achieve it, because I believe it is achievable."
CAF Champions League: Enugu Rangers return, Remo Stars face tough Moroccan test
Previously, TheRadar reported that Nigerian league champions Rangers International and Remo Stars are set to compete in the CAF Champions League, while Enyimba and Elkanemi Warriors will represent Nigeria in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Over the past two years, the CAF Executive has made substantial investments in African club football. The prize money for the CAF Champions League winners has been raised to $4,000,000, a significant increase from the $2,500,000 that Wydad Casablanca received for winning the 2022 final.
