Enyimba International FC of Aba on Sunday came from behind twice to defeat Bendel Insurance of Benin 3-2 in an NPFL Matchday Five clash.
Chinedu Nwosu opened scoring for Insurance in the third minute, before Joseph Abiodun restored parity for Enyimba in the 18th minute to make it 1-1.
The visitors regained the lead in the 60th minute when Wisdom Udom converted after reacting swiftly to the goalkeeper’s initial save from a penalty kick.
Enyimba equalised again in the 66th minute through Kalu Nweke’s spot kick, before Michael Chidera struck the decisive winner four minutes later to seal victory.
Enyimba coach Stanley Eguma described the win as sweet, especially against a strong traditional side like Bendel Insurance, popularly called the ‘Benin Arsenal.’
“Matches between Enyimba and Bendel Insurance are always tense. As traditional teams, the contest is always tough. It was a scary game but we triumphed,” Eguma said.
He praised his players for showing character, coming back twice to take the lead, and maintaining their unbeaten start to the league campaign.
Enyimba striker Michael Chidera, who netted the winner, said the team followed the coach’s instructions, which gave them the edge in the hard-fought contest.
“I am delighted to score the winning goal. This victory will boost our confidence and morale ahead of the next match of the season,” Chidera said.
Bendel Insurance coach Greg Ikhanoba admitted his side lost concentration, which allowed Enyimba to punish them with the second and third goals.
“Of course, Enyimba are a good, tough side. They are number one in Nigeria and among the best clubs in Africa. We lost the match, but we must correct our lapses before the next league fixture,” Ikhanoba said.
Enyimba now lead the NPFL table with 11 points from five matches.
Bendel Insurance slipped to 15th place with five points after five games.
Enyimba’s number one supporter, Governor Alex Otti of Abia, watched the encounter from start to finish alongside his entourage.
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