The Enyimba International Stadium in Aba hosted a breathtaking five-goal thriller on Sunday evening as Enyimba edged Bendel Insurance 3–2 in a pulsating NPFL Week 5 clash. The contest had it all, early goals, penalties, big saves, yellow cards, and relentless attacking football that kept fans on edge until the final whistle.
The game exploded into life almost immediately from the first whislte. In just the 2nd minute, Bendel Insurance stunned the Aba crowd with a shock opener. Enyimba responded with composure, gradually dictating possession. Their persistence was rewarded in the 18th minute when Abiodun Joseph smashed home the rebound from a free kick to level the score.
The rest of the half was frantic. Insurance forced six corners before the break, but Kevin Ogunga, Enyimba’s safe pair of hands, denied them repeatedly. Meanwhile, Kayode Oke dazzled with flair, though his exuberance earned him a yellow card late in the half.
The second period picked up where the first left off. Insurance nearly restored their lead in the 50th minute, but Ogunga denied Austin Osayande with a reflex save. Six minutes later came the turning point. Peter Afolayan handled the ball in Enyimba’s box, conceding a penalty. Oke’s kick was brilliantly saved by Ogunga, but Henry Onyia pounced on the rebound to make it 1–2.
Enyimba hit back instantly. In the 63rd minute, Mujeeb Odufeso was fouled in the area, and Kalu Nweke dispatched the penalty with calm assurance. By now momentum was firmly with the hosts. In the 70th minute, Nweke turned provider, threading a clever pass for substitute Chidera Michael, who fired home to put Enyimba ahead for the first time. The stadium erupted as the turnaround was complete.
Insurance rallied in search of an equalizer, but Ogunga stood tall, while Odufeso and Michael squandered late chances to seal it. Enyimba held on for a famous victory.
Key Moments
⚽ 2’: Insurance shock opener (0–1)
⚽ 18’: Joseph equalizes (1–1)
⚽ 56’: Onyia scores rebound after saved penalty (1–2)
⚽ 63’: Nweke converts Enyimba penalty (2–2)
⚽ 70’: Michael fires Enyimba ahead (3–2)
🧤 Ogunga made multiple crucial saves, including a penalty stop.
📒 Bookings: Bendel’s Oke & Iyanda; Enyimba’s Bright Emmanuel & Hussaini Mohammed.
Match Analysis
- Enyimba’s Resilience
Conceding in the 2nd minute could have rattled lesser sides, but Enyimba showed tactical discipline. Their quick replies to both Bendel goals highlighted mental strength and composure. - Goalkeeping Heroics
Ogunga was immense. His reflexes kept Enyimba alive at critical stages, and even though the rebound went in from the penalty, his save lifted team spirit. - Midfield Engine
The midfield battle shifted after the break. Kalu Nweke ran the show—controlling tempo, scoring from the spot, and creating the winner. - Defensive Flaws
Both defenses looked shaky. Enyimba conceded a penalty from poor positioning, while Bendel’s backline collapsed under sustained pressure in the final half hour. - Impact from the Bench
Chidera Michael’s winner underscored Enyimba’s squad depth. The substitutes gave fresh energy and tipped the game.
Final Verdict
This was an NPFL classic—intense, physical, and entertaining. Enyimba’s fightback reaffirmed their status as title contenders, while Bendel Insurance will rue defensive errors that cost them despite twice leading.
Final Score: Enyimba 3–2 Bendel Insurance
Man of the Match: Kalu Nweke – one goal, one assist, midfield dominance.
Honourable Mention: Kevin Ogunga – match-defining saves.
