Yenagoa, Bayelsa State — The Bayelsa Pre-season Football Tournament roared into matchday two with commanding performances from Bendel Insurance and Warri Wolves, who both recorded emphatic victories to solidify their positions atop their respective groups.
Warri Wolves Maul EGM FC in Group A Showdown
Warri Wolves kicked off the day with a ruthless 3–0 demolition of Prosperity Cup champions, Eternal Grace Ministry FC (EGM FC), at the Samson Siasia Stadium. The Wolves, already riding high from their opening win against Bayelsa United U-20, showed no mercy.
- Ademola Adebambo opened the scoring in the 35th minute.
- Ezekiel Oroh sealed the win with a clinical brace in the 77th and 80th minutes.
With six points from two matches, Warri Wolves now sit comfortably atop Group A, showcasing a blend of tactical discipline and attacking flair.
Bendel Insurance Crush Kun Khalifat in Group B Masterclass
In the second fixture, Bendel Insurance unleashed a four-goal blitz against newly-promoted Kun Khalifat, asserting their dominance in Group B.
- Alex Oweilayefa struck first in the 28th minute.
- Promise Itoro doubled the lead six minutes later.
- Kayode Oke added a third just before halftime.
- Isaac Omigie completed the rout in the 49th minute.
The Benin Arsenals looked sharp, cohesive, and ruthless — a clear warning to other contenders in the tournament.
Coaches React: Focus Beyond the Scoreline
Despite the convincing win, Bendel Insurance head coach Greg Ikhenoba remained grounded:
“Yes, the goals are good, but I’m more interested in how we play together and understand each other before the league begins. This platform is about building cohesion.”
He emphasized squad rotation and development, promising opportunities for players yet to feature.
On the other side, Kun Khalifat’s head coach Obinna Uzoho remained optimistic:
“We lost due to elementary errors, but we’ll correct them. This is a learning curve, and we’ll bounce back stronger.”
Warri Wolves Technical Adviser Napoleon Alumua praised his team’s growing synergy:
“The players are gradually blending into my philosophy. EGM FC is a good side, but we executed our game plan well.”
What’s Next?
The tournament will observe a rest day on Wednesday, August 13, before resuming with a high-stakes clash between Bayelsa United and Kun Khalifat in Group B on Thursday at 1:00 PM, again at the Samson Siasia Stadium.
With momentum building and rivalries intensifying, the Bayelsa Pre-season Football Tournament is shaping up to be a thrilling showcase of talent, tactics, and tenacity. Stay tuned for more matchday drama.
