Abdallah Blames Defensive Lapses for Warri Wolves Defeat

Warri Wolves head coach Hassan Abdallah has admitted that defensive mistakes and a lack of experience contributed to his side’s 2-1 defeat to Bendel Insurance in their opening 2026/27 Euromatch Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, fixture.

The Seasiders started the South-South derby brightly at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, taking the lead just four minutes into the game through Towo Eventus.

However, Bendel Insurance responded strongly, with Kayode Oke Solomon restoring parity after 20 minutes before Alex Oweiyalefa completed the comeback two minutes into the second half.

Speaking to journalists at the post-match press conference, Abdallah said his team failed to protect its early advantage and revealed that he had identified weaknesses in the heart of his defence.

“We scored very early, just four minutes into the match, but unfortunately we could not maintain that advantage until the end of the first half,” Abdallah said.

“I also noticed some technical problems in our central defence, and that is something I will work on with the players so we can correct those mistakes.”

Despite the defeat, the Warri Wolves coach was pleased with the overall performance of his youthful side and stood by his decision to give several young players the opportunity to start.

Abdallah explained that his football philosophy places a strong emphasis on pace, energy and quick movement, qualities he believes younger players can provide.

“I deliberately used a very young team because I believe modern football requires a lot of energy and speed.

” That was one of the reasons I decided to give these young players the opportunity,” he explained.

The coach also praised his players for following his tactical instructions, particularly in building attacks from the back, moving the ball through midfield and using the flanks.

According to Abdallah, Warri Wolves created opportunities but lacked the composure required to turn some of those chances into goals.

“I like my team to build from the middle, move the ball to the wings and then deliver into the box.

‘The players followed those instructions very well.

“They played as a team, from the goalkeeper through the midfield and into the attack.

“We created some chances, but unfortunately we did not take them.”

Abdallah added that the team had already worked on its finishing during preparations for the new season, but admitted that there was still room for improvement.

He also dismissed suggestions that the defeat had left him deeply disappointed, insisting that the performance showed encouraging signs despite the mistakes.

“I would say we played well. I am not disappointed with the performance.

“There were just some lapses, especially inexperience, and we have to work on that.”

The coach revealed that experienced players will gradually be introduced into the team as the season progresses in a bid to provide greater balance and leadership.

“We will gradually bring in some intelligent and experienced players to help us correct those lapses,” he said.

Attention now turns to Matchday 2, when Warri Wolves will face reigning NPFL champions Rangers.

But Abdallah insists he is not intimidated by the pedigree of the Coal City side and believes his team can cause an upset if it executes its tactical plan effectively.

“For me, I have no problem playing Rangers at this stage of the season. I don’t play against names; I play football,” Abdallah said.

“We will prepare properly, follow our tactical plan and make sure we play the way we want. At the end of the day, our objective is to win.”