Bendel Insurance shocked Akwa United with a resounding 2-0 victory in Uyo as the new Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) kick-started on Sunday.
The newly promoted outfit shocked the ‘Promise Keepers’ at the Nest of Champions in what was the opening match of the 2022/2023 season.
First half goals by Imade Osehenkhoe and Ismael Seriki gave the visitors all three points at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
The game happened to be the Benin-based side’s first in the Nigerian top-flight since 2019 and what better way to launch their return.
This also marked the very first time Bendel Insurance have netted two goals in an NPFL game since losing 3-2 to Zamfara United in October 2007.
The first goal was converted by Bendel Insurance player Osehenkhoe after he was set up by the impressive Divine Nwachukwu in the 37th minute, much to the shock of Akwa United fans.
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Ismael Seriki then tucked in the second of the encounter from a corner two minutes before the break, sending the home fans into further shock.
The away side held their nerves and were outstanding in the second half, preventing Akwa United from registering a single goal.
There was wild jubilation on the Insurance bench following the final whistle – a great result signalling a brilliant start to their league campaign. They will hope to maintain the momentum.
Meanwhile, the other matchday one fixtures will be played next weekend.
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