Bendel Insurance edge Abia Warriors in tense NPFL clash

By Mishael Emmanuel 

  

  

 

Bendel Insurance secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Abia Warriors in a fiery Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 34 encounter decided by a second-half strike from Chinedu Nwosu.

Played behind closed doors at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, the contest lived up to expectations with both sides delivering an aggressive and highly competitive display.

Despite the absence of fans, the intensity on the pitch was unmistakable.

The visitors, led by coach Imama Amapakabo, dominated much of the first half. Sticking with the same starting XI that featured in their previous outing against Bayelsa United, Abia Warriors controlled possession and created promising chances.

However, their inability to convert opportunities ensured the first half ended goalless.

The tide turned after the break as Bendel Insurance responded with tactical adjustments. 

Their persistence paid off in the 66th minute when Abia Warriors failed to deal with a set-piece situation, allowing Nwosu to react quickest and fire home what proved to be the decisive goal.

In response, the Warriors made attacking substitutions, introducing Fatai Abdullahi and Shedrack Asiegbu to inject pace and urgency into their play. 

The changes shifted momentum briefly, forcing the hosts onto the defensive as Abia Warriors pushed forward in search of an equalizer.

Late in the game, Chindi Merpring was also thrown into the fray to bolster the attack, but Bendel Insurance held firm under pressure, defending resolutely to preserve their slender lead and claim all three points.

The defeat leaves Abia Warriors with work to do as they turn their focus to a crucial Matchday 35 fixture against Ikorodu City FC, scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 2026, at the Enyimba International Stadium.