Benin City, Edo State – In a thrilling encounter at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Bendel Insurance displayed their unwavering dominance as they clinched victory in a tense semi-final clash against Warri Wolves, prevailing 4-2 in a penalty shoot-out.
The match ended in a goalless draw, forcing the teams to rely on spot-kicks to determine the winner.
Throughout the entirety of the game, both sides exhibited defensive resilience, resulting in a deadlock that persisted until the final whistle. The cautious approach taken by both teams in the first half led to limited goal-scoring opportunities.
Bendel Insurance made a mere three attempts at goal, with only one shot missing the target. Conversely, Warri Wolves struggled to penetrate the formidable defense marshaled by Benin Arsenals‘ Sunday Anyanwu, failing to convert their opportunities into tangible results.
The 62nd minute witnessed a moment of excitement when Bendel Insurance’s Stephen Adodo delivered a perfectly weighted pass to Sarki Ismael, who deftly controlled the ball and attempted to beat the goalkeeper. However, his effort narrowly missed the mark, resulting in a goal kick for the opposing team.
Warri Wolves also had their chance to break the deadlock as Bakare fired a powerful shot from the edge of the 18-yard box. Yet, the shot was expertly parried by Bendel Insurance’s goalkeeper, Amas Obasogie, before Sunday Anyanwu swiftly cleared the ball, conceding only a corner.
Adding to the drama of the encounter, one of Warri Wolves’ officials was shown a red card as the center referee brought the game to a close, signaling the end of regular play.
With the match ending in a goalless stalemate, the fate of the teams was left to be decided through a nerve-wracking penalty shoot-out.
Under the guidance of their coach, Monday Osagie, Bendel Insurance showcased their indomitable spirit, converting three out of their four penalty kicks. In contrast, Warri Wolves faltered, missing two crucial penalties. The hero of the day, Bendel Insurance’s goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, saved the third penalty taken by Joke Elvis.
Ultimately, it was Bendel Insurance who emerged victorious, extending their unbeaten streak and setting their sights on securing a domestic double. Reflecting on the triumph, goalkeeper Obasogie emphasized the team’s focus on the next challenge.
“We have just defeated a formidable opponent in Warri Wolves FC, but we still have another hurdle to overcome in the final,” Obasogie stated. “Winning the FA Cup has not been achieved yet, but this victory serves as a stepping stone toward realizing our ultimate goal. The FA Cup final is tantalizingly close, and we eagerly await what lies ahead.”
With their eyes firmly fixed on the coveted FA Cup, Bendel Insurance prepares for their upcoming final with confidence and determination. The team’s unbeaten run throughout the season has not only solidified their status as a formidable force in Nigerian football but also heightened anticipation for their quest for glory in the forthcoming title clash.
