The stage is set, the stakes are high, and the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa is bracing for a football spectacle as Warri Wolves lock horns with Bendel Insurance in the grand finale of the Bayelsa Pre-season Football Tournament this Saturday, August 16th at 4:00 p.m.
Road to the Final: Grit, Goals, and Glory
The tournament, a thrilling curtain-raiser ahead of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) kick-off on August 22nd, has delivered electrifying football from top-tier NPFL sides — Warri Wolves, Bendel Insurance, Kun Khalifat, Bayelsa United — alongside Prosperity Cup champions EGM FC and the Bayelsa U-20 team.
In a semi-final clash that had fans on the edge of their seats, Bendel Insurance unleashed a goal-fest against Bayelsa United U-20. Isaac Omijie, the Benin Arsenals’ goal machine, struck early in the 15th minute with a clinical finish — his third of the tournament. Despite a spirited first-half showing from the hosts, Insurance’s relentless pressure paid off as Adewale Adebayo doubled the lead in the 64th minute. Elmer Arunta sealed the deal in the 71st minute, capitalizing on a goalkeeper error to make it a commanding 3-0 victory.
Warri Wolves, not to be outdone, silenced the home crowd in the second semi-final with a 2-0 triumph over Bayelsa United. An unfortunate own goal by Arise Ogundare in the 20th minute gave the Seasiders an early edge, and Tejiri’s composed strike in the 47th minute ensured their ticket to the final.
Coaches React: Eyes on the Prize
Bayelsa United Head Coach Meremu Okara acknowledged the tournament’s value in exposing his team’s weaknesses, vowing to fine-tune their tactics before the NPFL season begins.
Warri Wolves’ Technical Adviser Napoleon Alumua praised his squad’s cohesion and credited the tournament for sharpening their strategies. “This competition has been a blessing for all participating teams,” he said, extending gratitude to the Bayelsa State Government and organizers.
Bendel Insurance’s Greg Ikhenoba echoed the sentiment, expressing satisfaction with his team’s progress. “My players are embracing our philosophy and adapting well. We’re ready for the final,” he declared.
Final Countdown: Who Will Reign Supreme?
With both teams showcasing tactical brilliance and attacking flair, Saturday’s final promises fireworks. Will Warri Wolves ride the wave of momentum to lift the trophy, or will Bendel Insurance’s clinical edge prove decisive?
One thing’s certain — football fans are in for a treat. The Bayelsa Pre-season Football Tournament has set the tone for an exhilarating NPFL season, and the final clash is the perfect crescendo.
Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa
Saturday, August 16th — 4:00 p.m.
