Ebuka Akobundu scored a brilliant winner as Nigeria Premier Football League Group A leader, Bendel Insurance moved five points clear with a 1-0 victory over rock-bottom Nasarawa United.
The unpredictable winger who caused the Solid Miners defence trouble all through the game curled beyond Nasarawa’s goalie from the side of the box whilst everyone expected a cross, beating all to surprise at the Samuel Ogbemudia stadium just seven minutes after the start of the second half.
It was a moment of magic worthy of winning any game but was the least Insurance deserved having dominated against the side that managed only two shots on target.
Coach Monday Odigie made no changes from the side that played out a 2-2 draw against Shooting Stars last weekend and, despite all their recent problems caused by fatigue, the Benin Arsenal produced a thoroughly professional performance.
Yet they were made to work hard, with the Solid Miners playing deep and long passes, but were unable to create many clear-cut chances despite applying near relentless pressure.
Judging by Odigie’s reactions on the touchline to most of the Insurance work, crossing into the box had probably not been the initial gameplan for the Benin Arsenal, but something imposed on them by the low block Solid Miners defence.
The second half began at a much livelier tempo, with Insurance perhaps realising the onus was on them to try something different and it did not take long for Insurance to take the lead with Ebuka Akobundu’s magnificent strike.
A second yellow card was shown to the Solid Miners winger, Chris Madaki in the 83rd minute after a tough tackle at the edge of the box.
The red card further demoralised the morale of the visitors as Insurance looked for a killer blow while comfortably playing out the closing minutes to claim a potentially decisive win under the floodlights.
The match kick-off was delayed until 4:17 pm local time due to a shortage of Police officers at the match venue.