2026/2027 NPFL Match Day 1: Bendel Insurance Claims First Bragging Rights with Warri Wolves Win

Posted : 31 August 2026

Bendel Insurance began their 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) campaign on a winning note, coming from behind to defeat neighbours Warri Wolves 2-1 in a fiercely contested Old Bendel derby at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.

The victory handed Insurance the first bragging rights of the new season in a rivalry that has produced closely fought encounters in recent years.

Warri Wolves appeared poised to spoil the hosts’ opening-day party when former Bendel Insurance player Itolowo Eventus struck just two minutes into the match.

Eventus capitalised on a defensive error following poor handling of Joshua Baba’s pass before calmly putting the visitors ahead, silencing the home supporters who had turned out in large numbers.

The early setback, however, appeared to galvanise Bendel Insurance, who gradually took control of the game and began to dictate possession.

Their pressure eventually paid off in the 19th minute when Kayode Oke converted from the penalty spot to bring the hosts level.

With the contest finely balanced, both teams struggled to create clear-cut opportunities for the remainder of the first half, leaving the scoreline unchanged at the interval.

The second half resumed with both technical crews making tactical adjustments in an attempt to gain the upper hand.

Insurance benefited most from the changes, with Alex Oweilayefa proving decisive after coming into the game.

The attacking midfielder made his presence felt in the 59th minute when he connected with a well-delivered pass from midfield and finished from close range to put Bendel Insurance 2-1 ahead.

Warri Wolves attempted to respond through further tactical changes, but Insurance’s defence held firm as the hosts protected their advantage until the final whistle.

The victory marked an important psychological boost for Bendel Insurance, who had been unable to defeat Warri Wolves in their recent meetings.

It was also Insurance’s first victory over the visitors in eight years, ending a run that had seen the two sides record three draws since Warri Wolves defeated Insurance 1-0 in the 2018 NNL season.

The result gives Bendel Insurance an encouraging start to their campaign, while Warri Wolves will have to wait for another opportunity to secure their first points of the season.

Insurance will travel to Lafia for their Match Day 2 fixture against Nasarawa United.

Warri Wolves, meanwhile, will sit out Match Day 2 because their scheduled opponents, Rangers International of Enugu, will be engaged in the first preliminary round of the 2026/27 CAF Champions League.

2026/2027 NPFL Match Day 1: Bendel Insurance Claims First Bragging Rights with Warri Wolves Win

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