Bendel Insurance’s season could easily have unravelled after a mass summer clear-out, but the Benin Arsenal have instead produced a competitive side that sits ninth on the Nigeria Premier Football League table.
With most of last season’s squad gone, expectations were modest. Yet Insurance have rebuilt effectively and now operate with a clear identity, deploying a classical 4-3-3 formation that has brought structure and balance.
Joshua Baba has established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper and remains one of the few young shot-stoppers enjoying regular game time in the NPFL. His presence has added calm at the back during a period of transition.
Yazid Adamu is enjoying the best campaign of his career at left-back, offering consistency in a defence that has seen frequent changes at centre-half. Veteran Chizoba Amaefule, Dennis Chigozie Iwuoha and Henry Onyia have all been used, but Promise Harrison Itoro has emerged as the standout performer. Strong in the tackle and assured in possession, Itoro has also filled in as a defensive midfielder when required. On the right, Efe Enabulele and Stanley Okorom continue to rotate.
Midfield selection has varied, though Nnamdi Henry Anthony has provided some stability. Itoro has again impressed when deployed as the anchor, while Austin Osayande, Alex Oweilayefa and Emmanuel Akpan have offered creativity and attacking intent. Akpan, in particular, has been one of the revelations of the season.
Out wide, Wisdom Udom has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign following his move from Abakaliki FC. Chisom Nwosu, signed from Sunshine Stars, is also in fine form and has already scored three league goals.
Leading the line is Oke Kayode, the team’s top scorer and joint star player alongside Itoro. The pacey striker has netted four times and continues to trouble defences. Alongside Udom and Nwosu, Kayode forms an effective attacking trio that could drive a strong second half of the season. Emmanuel Dung and Arunta Elmer provide reliable depth from the bench.
With clear signs of cohesion and individual improvement, Bendel Insurance’s rebuild is beginning to deliver results when few expected it.
Top scorers: Oke Kayode 4, Chisom Nwosu 3, Alex Oweilayefa 3.
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