NPFL: Late Odibo Strike Secures Narrow Victory for Shooting Stars

A late goal from substitute Godwin Odibo handed Shooting Stars a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bendel Insurance in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) clash on Saturday.

The decisive moment came in the 81st minute at Lekan Salami Stadium, as Odibo capitalized on a defensive clearance to drill a low shot past the goalkeeper, securing all three points for the Ibadan-based side.

With this win, Shooting Stars solidified their grip on second place in the league table, amassing 40 points from 22 matches. They trail current leaders Remo Stars by eight points, though the Ikenne club has played one game more. Remo Stars also maintained their title charge with a 2-1 triumph over Kano Pillars.

A Tactical Battle in Ibadan

The encounter in Ibadan was a tightly contested affair, with Bendel Insurance showing resilience in the early stages. The visitors strung together crisp passes to push back their opponents, but Shooting Stars gradually gained control, making dangerous runs down the flanks.

Despite their dominance in possession, the home side struggled with finishing, squandering multiple chances. Their attacking intensity increased in the final 20 minutes of the first half, but defensive errors and lack of composure in front of goal kept the scoreline level.

Bendel Insurance stood firm in the second half, absorbing pressure from the relentless Shooting Stars attack. However, the deadlock was finally broken when Odibo pounced on a loose ball inside the penalty area and rifled a shot into the net, sending the home crowd into celebration.

League Standings and Upcoming Matches

The victory keeps Shooting Stars comfortably in second place, five points clear of third-placed Rivers United, who sit on 35 points ahead of their clash with Lobi Stars on Sunday.

In other NPFL Match Day 23 fixtures played on Saturday, El-Kanemi Warriors edged past Nasarawa United with a 1-0 win, maintaining their fourth-place position. Katsina United also grabbed a victory on Friday, overcoming Heartland FC.

Sunday’s fixtures will see Rangers International travel to face Bayelsa United in Yenagoa, while Abia Warriors host Sunshine Stars in Umuahia. Elsewhere, Niger Tornadoes take on Plateau United in Minna, Akwa United battle Enyimba in Uyo, and Ikorodu City go up against Kwara United in Lagos.