Kwara United FC suffered a disappointing defeat to visiting Bendel Insurance in their NPFL Matchday 11 encounter. The match took place at the Rashidi Yekini Mainbowl of the George Innih Stadium, Ilorin, on Sunday. Both teams began cautiously, seeking to establish control and create scoring opportunities. Aliyu Ferinyaro and Uche Jaguar came close to breaking the deadlock for Kwara United in the first half, but their efforts were thwarted by Bendel Insurance's resilient defensive line.
Kwara United were forced into an early substitution in the 17th minute when Anthony Nnamdi, who sustained a knock, was replaced by Mighty Emmanuel. Despite both teams' efforts, the first half ended goalless. The hosts returned from the break with renewed determination and were rewarded in the 49th minute when Stephen Gideon put Kwara United ahead. Gideon scored after Ferinyaro's shot was parried by the Bendel Insurance goalkeeper.
However, Kwara United's celebrations were short-lived as Kayode Oke restored parity for Bendel Insurance in the 52nd minute. Oke capitalised on a poorly marked loose ball to equalise for the visitors. Bendel Insurance completed their comeback just three minutes later, with Chinedu Nwosu scoring in the 55th minute to hand the Benin-based side a 2-1 lead.
Kwara United intensified their efforts to find an equaliser, with further tactical substitutions introduced to change the course of the game. However, Bendel Insurance remained resolute defensively to protect their advantage until the final whistle. The visitors' defensive strategy ultimately secured their win.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Kwara United coach Ladi Ojokojo, who stood in for Ashifat Suleiman, expressed disappointment with the outcome. He remained optimistic about the team's prospects, assuring that they would continue to work hard to return to winning ways. Ojokojo's comments reflected the team's determination to bounce back from the defeat.
The defeat leaves Kwara United in 14th position on the NPFL table with 12 points from 11 matches. The team will next travel to face Rangers International in Owerri next weekend as they seek to bounce back from the home setback. This upcoming match presents an opportunity for Kwara United to regain momentum in the league.
The loss was a significant setback for Kwara United, but the team is expected to regroup and refocus for their upcoming match. With 12 points from 11 matches, Kwara United will look to improve their standings in the NPFL table. The team's performance in the upcoming match against Rangers International will be crucial in determining their progress.
Key points
- Kwara United FC lost 2-1 to Bendel Insurance in their NPFL Matchday 11 encounter.
- The defeat leaves Kwara United in 14th position on the NPFL table with 12 points from 11 matches.
- Kwara United will next travel to face Rangers International in Owerri next weekend.
