By Kehinde Osagiede
Bendel Insurance Football Club of Benin, Wednesday morning began the 2025 President Federation Cup on an impressive note as they thrashed NLO team from Jigawa state Dandidi Babes FC 5-0 in the round of 64 game at the Lafia City stadium in Nasarawa state.
Uche Collins opened scoring for the Benin Arsenals in the 8th minute of the game. Skipper Meyiwa Oritseweyinmi doubled the lead five minutes later(13 minutes) before Michael Enaruna’s beautiful strike made it 3-0 in the 45th minute shortly before halftime whistle.
Insurance FC dominance continued as the teams returned from the halftime break when substitute Chinedu Onyejekwe headed home the 4th goal for the Benin Arsenals in the 57th minute of play. Chinedu’s header however turned bloody after sustaining head injury that sent him out of the game.
Meyiwa Oritseweyinmi struck again in the 61st minute to wrap up the game and helped his side advance to the round of 32.of this year’s FA cup.
The 2023 Federation Cup champions Bendel Insurance FC will be returning to Benin to begin preparation for the NPFL Match Day 30 against Sunshine Stars weekend as they await their next opponents in the Federation Cup.
In a post match interview, Coach Greg Ikhenoba praised the Benin Arsenals for their commitment, particularly the way they approached the game with the underdogs Dandidi Babes FC .
“They gave me what I wanted from them. No complacency,no dull moment. It was the best way to face any team you are not familiar with especially the ones football followers tagged the underdogs. I’m pleased with the outcome. I keep saying that there is no pushover anymore in football. FA cup is usually filled with surprises and upset. So, I’m happy my boys were alive to their responsibility. Our attention now shift to the league”. He said.
Insurance are currently in the 9th position on the league table, and will be hosting Sunshine Stars on Saturday, March 22,2025. Kickoff time is 4pm.
