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2025/2026 NPFL Matchday 17 Review: Late Own Goal Saves Rangers as Bendel Insurance Miss Home Win

Posted : 15 December 2025

Bendel Insurance were left frustrated as Rangers International salvaged a late 1–1 draw in their Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday 17 clash at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City. The result came courtesy of a dramatic stoppage-time own goal that snatched a point for the visitors.

The first half was a tactical battle, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut opportunities. Bendel Insurance maintained a compact and organised shape, limiting Rangers’ attacking threats, while the visitors were forced into speculative attempts. Both teams went into the break level and without a goal.

The home side grew in confidence as the game progressed, eventually breaking the deadlock in the 81st minute. Kayode Oke’s persistence on the flank paid off; after his initial attempt was blocked, he quickly delivered a dangerous ball into the box. Promise Anyanwu reacted first, slotting the ball home to send the Benin crowd into celebration and seemingly secure a vital home win.

However, Rangers refused to bow out quietly. In added time, Chidozie Iwundu’s precise free kick caused panic in the Insurance defence and was inadvertently deflected into the net, denying the Flying Antelopes victory and earning them a crucial point.

The draw continued Bendel Insurance’s challenging run against Rangers, as the Benin-based side have now won only once in their last six NPFL encounters with the Enugu team. Despite remaining unbeaten in their last five matches, Insurance sit 14th on the table with 20 points, still struggling for consistency at home.

For Rangers, the result highlighted their resilience away from home. The eight-time champions, who had failed to score in their previous two visits to Benin, collected their fifth away point of the season to maintain fourth place on 26 points, staying within striking distance of the league leaders.

Looking ahead to Matchday 18, Rangers will return to Enugu to host high-flying Ikorodu City at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, while Bendel Insurance face a stern test against reigning champions Remo Stars in Abeokuta.

 

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