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Match Preview: Gunners and Shooters reignite old battle in Benin

BENIN (Made In Africa Sport) – Matchday two of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) will see a renewal of hostilities between two traditional clubs; Bendel Insurance and Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, on Saturday 7 October 2023 in a clash that carries the weight of history.

The last time these two sides met was at this very venue as it ended in an electrifying 1-1 draw. Ismael Sarki found the back of the net for Bendel Insurance in the 61st minute with a header, but the drama did not end there. Alimi Sikiru came to the rescue of Shooting Stars with a late equalizer capitalising on a goalkeeping error from Amas Obasogie in the 85th minute, leaving fans unhappy in May, earlier this year.

In the first half of last season, Bendel Insurance took an early 2-0 lead, but the Oluyole Warriors of Shooting Stars showed their resilience by clawing back to a 2-2 draw at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Adamasingba.

Such encounters between these traditional powerhouses showcase the unpredictable nature of football.

Fans of ‘Sooting Stars’ will not forget quickly the Nigeria National League 2018/19 season. Week 17 of the NNL was a dramatic one as that Monday afternoon at the University of Benin Sports Complex saw Insurance return to the top flight after defeating 3SC 2-1 who was then coached by Dimeji Lawal. Five years apart, that game still lingers in the minds of many.

The last five matches in the top-flight between both sides have seen Bendel Insurance win two, Shooting Stars 1 and the other two games ending in a draw.

Since 2003, with both sides facing each other, the Benin-based team has slotted in nine goals against the six scored by the Ibadan-based team.

The Benin Arsenal, under the guidance of coach Monday Odigie, are entering this match without any recent NPFL action. They were on continental duty, facing RS Berkane in a challenging contest last weekend.

On the other hand, the Oluyole Warriors, led by coach Gbenga Ogunbote, are coming into this match with momentum. They secured a 2-1 victory in their previous NPFL game, with Ayobami Junior and Anayo Ogbonna contributing to the scoresheet. As things stand, Shooting Stars currently lead the NPFL in shots on target, with five, highlighting their attacking prowess.

As the two teams prepare to clash once again, fans can expect a fierce battle and unpredictable twists.

Bendel Insurance talisman, Imade Osarenkhoe has departed the club as he now plies his trade with United FC in the United Arab Emirates. The big question remains if Jude Ebohon, the team’s replacement, will be able to fill the shoes of Imade.

Will Bendel Insurance make their home advantage count, or will Shooting Stars continue their impressive start in the league? The answer will be revealed on Saturday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

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