September 13, (THEWILL) — Bendel Insurance claimed their first win of the 2025 Nigeria Premier Football League season with a 1-0 result against Niger Tornadoes at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Saturday. Emmanuel Israel struck in the third minute of added time, ending the hosts’ run of two draws and one loss from their opening fixtures.
The contest was tightly balanced, with chances limited for both teams until the final moments. Bendel Insurance applied greater pressure in the second half, but Niger Tornadoes’ defensive organisation restricted clear openings. Israel’s intervention came through a long throw-in, the set-piece tactic that has produced all three of the club’s goals this season.
For Niger Tornadoes, the return of Joseph Godstime from injury had been expected to strengthen their attack. However, the visitors struggled for accuracy in the final third, despite creating counter-attacking opportunities. Coach Majin Mohammed’s team departed without reward after an organised but ultimately blunt display.
Bendel Insurance’s forward unit showed signs of improvement after a slow start to the campaign, finding more space in advanced positions. Israel’s header reflected the persistence of the home side, who were backed by strong local attendance. The defensive discipline of both teams meant that clear scoring chances were rare, with the decisive moment arriving late.
The result lifts Bendel Insurance to 10th in the NPFL standings and eases early pressure, while Niger Tornadoes stay in 6th position following the setback. Both clubs now turn attention to their upcoming fixtures with Bendel Insurance away to Aba Warriors Enyimba and Niger Tornadoes hosting Lagos side Ikorodu City next Sunday.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
