NPFL: Warri Wolves, Bendel Insurance drop points as continental race intensifies

A tense Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 31 encounter between Warri Wolves and Bendel Insurance ended goalless at the Southern Delta University Stadium, fairwayst the weekend with both sides left to rue missed opportunities in a fixture that could prove decisive in their season ambitions.

The result represents a significant setback, particularly for Bendel Insurance, whose push for a continental ticket suffered a blow after failing to capitalise on a match widely viewed as winnable.

Despite dominating spells, the Benin Arsenal lacked the cutting edge required to break down a resilient Warri Wolves side.

Head coach, Kennedy Boboye did not hide his frustration, admitting that anything short of victory fell below expectations.

“Obviously the target was to win this game to boost our continental aspirations. We will take the point and strive to win our next game at home,” Boboye said.

For Warri Wolves, the draw carried a different tone—one of grit rather than regret. Playing under difficult circumstances, including finishing the game with a two-man disadvantage, the Seasiders showed resilience to hold on for a point.

Coach Hassan Abdallah, however, lamented his side’s profligacy in front of goal, noting that the game could have been won before the numerical setback.

“We wanted to win the game, but with the two-player disadvantage, we had to fight for the point,” Abdallah said, while praising the team’s effort and gradual tactical evolution.

The veteran tactician emphasised that his rebuilding process is still underway but maintained optimism about their season target.

“This team is still work in progress, we are not losing hope of finishing in the top six; we believe it is still achievable.”

This development leaves Warri Wolves in 12th position with 40 points from 31 matches, a standing that reflects inconsistency and continued struggles to convert performances into victories.

Meanwhile, Bendel Insurance, now seventh on the table with 45 points, risk falling further behind in the race for continental qualification as rivals pick up momentum.

Warri Wolves face a stern test in their next outing, travelling to Lagos to confront high-flying Ikorodu City, a side that is enjoying strong form. Bendel Insurance, on the other hand, will return to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, where they’ll play host to Plateau United in a must-win encounter to keep their continental hopes alive.