Bayelsa United delivered a masterclass performance in Matchday 14 of the 2024-25 NPFL season, dismantling Niger Tornadoes 4-1 at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa.
The match began with an early scare for the home side, as Niger Tornadoes tested Bayelsa United goalkeeper Godgift Elkanah within the first minute. However, the alert shot-stopper was up to the task, producing a key save to keep the game level.
The Prosperity Boys quickly settled into their rhythm, with Issa Yusuf forcing a fine save from the Tornadoes’ goalkeeper in the 12th minute. But Bayelsa’s dominance paid off in the 16th minute, when a dazzling display of footwork from Wisdom set up Emo James, who calmly slotted home to give the hosts a 1-0 lead.
Just five minutes later, the home side doubled their advantage. Wisdom, who had missed a golden opportunity earlier, made amends with a clinical strike in the 23rd minute, following a pinpoint assist from Emo James.
Despite having multiple chances to extend their lead, Bayelsa United went into the break with a 2-0 advantage, after wasting another promising opportunity in the 33rd minute.
In the second half, Bayelsa United came out with renewed intensity. Their pressure was rewarded in the 48th minute when Auwal Sadiq found the back of the net, expertly set up by Ogundare’s lofted pass.
The hosts weren’t done yet. In the 62nd minute, Rabiu Abdullahi extended their lead to 4-0 with a well-struck goal, assisted by Sadiq, completing a clinical team performance.
With the game firmly under control, Bayelsa United made their second substitution in the 72nd minute, bringing on Yahaya Ibrahim for Wisdom Magbisa. Niger Tornadoes managed a late consolation goal in the 81st minute, scoring from a corner to make it 4-1, but it was too little, too late.
Bayelsa United made their final change in the 86th minute, with Rabiu Abdullahi making way for Okardi as the Prosperity Boys saw out the game to secure a resounding 4-1 victory. With the win, they moved up to 13th place with 17 points in the standings.
Post-Match Comments:
Ladan Perekeme Bosso (Bayelsa United Head Coach):
“I’ve never had any doubts about this young team. They’ve been creating chances in every match, and today was no different. The quality we have is undeniable, and it’s great to see the players finally converting those opportunities into goals. As for Emo James, there’s no injury concern. He’s coming back from a knock, and we are just managing his minutes to keep him fresh for the rest of the season. It’s all part of our long-term strategy to keep him at his best.”
Next up for Bayelsa United is an away clash against El Kanemi Warriors, as they look to build on this dominant display.
This match report was brought to you by Ebi Appah for Bayelsa United FC Media.
