…Edo Queens Seal 2–0 Triumph To Claim Crown
By Edward Oseghe
Bendel Insurance Football Club on Sunday, April 26, successfully defended their Edo State President Federation Cup title with a 2–0 victory over spirited newcomers Westgate FC at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.
Goals from Alex Oweifaleya and Kayode Oke in the 10th and 88th minutes sealed a deserved triumph for the Benin Arsenals, who once again underlined their dominance in the state competition.
Insurance took an early lead when Yazid Adamu delivered a trademark curling cross from the left flank, which was met by a well-positioned Oweifaleya, who powered home a clinical header.
Despite conceding early, Westgate FC showed composure and tactical discipline, matching the defending champions for long stretches of the encounter.
The underdogs impressed with compact teamwork and attacking intent, justifying their remarkable run to the final.
However, Insurance’s experience and resilience ultimately proved decisive.
The game took a dramatic turn in the 81st minute when Insurance captain Efe Enabulele was sent off for petulance, handing Westgate FC a numerical advantage. Expectations rose that the newcomers could capitalise, but Insurance head coach Kennedy Boboye responded swiftly with a tactical reshuffle. He introduced experienced right-back Stanley Okorom for Anyanwu Promise, tightening the defence while leaving Kayode Oke as a lone striker.
The adjustment paid off seven minutes later when Oke punished a defensive lapse by Westgate, calmly slotting into an empty net to secure the victory.
Both finalists had already qualified to represent Edo State at the national stage of the President Federation Cup prior to the final.
Insurance’s latest triumph reinforces their status as the most successful club in the state competition, having maintained a winning streak since 2019. The club, which also lifted the national FA Cup in 2023, boasts three national titles and two league championships.
On their route to this year’s final, Insurance defeated Delight FC 2–1 in the quarter-finals and thrashed St. Andrews FC 3–0 in the semi-finals.
Westgate FC, meanwhile, overcame Namo FC 3–2, edged Benin Warriors in the quarter-finals, and beat Ine Stars 1–0 in the last four.
Insurance forward Alex Oweifaleya was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player in recognition of his outstanding performances.
Speaking after the match,
Coach Kennedy Boboye praised Westgate FC for their impressive display.
“They played very good football and were compact. They dictated the pace in the second half. The two goals were the difference.
“I also commend my players for their resilience and for taking the chances we created,” he said.
Looking ahead to the national competition, Boboye assured that his team would be strengthened to compete at a higher level, expressing satisfaction at winning his first trophy with the club.
In the women’s category, Edo Queens FC also emerged champions, defeating Fortress Ladies 2–0 to complete a successful outing for the state’s top sides.
