By our man in Benin City
BENIN CITY — The historic Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium was transformed into a cauldron of noise and color yesterday as Bendel Insurance—affectionately known as the “Benin Arsenals”—delivered a clinical 2-0 dismantling of Kwara United.
In the world of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), few venues carry the weight of tradition quite like the 20,000-capacity Ogbemudia.
Named after the legendary former governor of the old Bendel State, the ground felt every bit like a fortress as the home side extended their dominance on its lush natural turf.
From the first whistle, the atmosphere was electric.
The local faithful, draped in the club’s iconic yellow and green, created a wall of sound that seemed to unsettle the visiting “Harmony Boys” from Ilorin.
The Breakthrough
The deadlock was broken in the 20th minute when Emmanuel Akpan found space in a crowded box.
Capitalizing on the high-energy start encouraged by the home crowd, Akpan slotted the ball home to send the Ogbemudia into a state of delirium.
Kwara United struggled to find their rhythm on the expansive Benin pitch, often looking second-best to an Insurance side that used every blade of the FIFA-approved grass to their advantage.
The points were virtually secured just before the interval.
In the 42nd minute, Kayode Oke Solomon doubled the advantage with a strike of pure predatory instinct.
As the halftime whistle blew, the stadium’s modern floodlights illuminated a sea of celebrating fans who knew their side had the game by the throat.
The second half was a masterclass in game management.
While Kwara United attempted to fight back, the “Vipers” of Benin remained coiled and disciplined, protected by the vocal backing of their supporters.
For Bendel Insurance, this wasn’t just a win; it was a statement.
In the shadow of the stadium’s historic concrete stands, they proved once again why Benin City remains one of the most intimidating destinations on the Nigerian football map.
