Bendel Insurance and Plateau United played out a dramatic 2-2 draw in their Matchday 32 clash in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on Saturday.
The home side began the match with intensity and purpose, taking control of possession early on and putting the visitors under sustained pressure. Their bright start was rewarded in the 14th minute when Alex Oweilayefa broke the deadlock with a composed finish, sending the home fans into celebration.
Plateau United gradually settled into the contest and began to find rhythm in midfield as the first half progressed. Their persistence paid off four minutes before the break when Monday Gideon found the equaliser, ensuring both sides went into halftime level.
Bendel Insurance came out stronger after the restart, pushing forward with greater urgency and attacking intent. Their efforts yielded results just before the hour mark when they were awarded a penalty, which Kayode Oke calmly converted to restore the home side’s lead at 2-1.
With the clock ticking down, Bendel Insurance looked set to claim all three points and strengthen their position in the league standings. However, Plateau United showed resilience in the closing stages, committing more players forward in search of a late goal.
Their pressure eventually paid off deep into stoppage time when they were awarded a penalty. Vincent Temitope stepped up and held his nerve, converting from the spot to make it 2-2 and snatch a point for the visitors in dramatic fashion.
The result highlights the competitive nature of the NPFL, where fine margins and late moments often define outcomes. Bendel Insurance will be disappointed to have dropped points after leading twice, particularly on home soil, while Plateau United will take encouragement from their fighting spirit and ability to secure a result under pressure.
Following the draw, Bendel Insurance remain seventh on the league table with 46 points, Plateau United just behind in eighth position with 43 points as both sides continue their push for a strong finish in the ongoing campaign.
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