Qamar Adegoke’s Late Strike Hands Shooting Stars Narrow Win Over Bendel Insurance

Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) claimed a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Bendel Insurance as Qamar Adegoke’s 73rd-minute strike proved decisive in a tense Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) encounter.

The Oluyole Warriors had to dig deep before breaking the resistance of the Benin Arsenal in a fiercely contested match marked by physical duels and tactical discipline from both sides.

After a goalless first half at the Lekan Salami Stadium Adamasingba, Adegoke finally broke the deadlock, sending the home fans into celebration and securing maximum points for Shooting Stars.

Speaking after the match, Shooting Stars head coach Nurudeen Aweroro, who has amassed coaching experience with top teams in the NPFL, praised his players for their commitment and mental strength.

“First of all, I give thanks to Almighty God for giving us the day. The boys played to my expectations. They worked hard and showed resilience, even when the opponent was playing rough. They stayed focused on attacking and ensured we got the result,” Aweroro said.

The experienced tactician also highlighted the growing depth of his squad, noting the impact of new additions.

“We have a new player with a lot of energy. He can complement the others and make a difference, especially when opponents begin to get tired,” he added.

Bendel Insurance head coach Kennedy Boboye, who was appointed in October 2025 on a two-year contract to replace Greg Ikhenoba, described the match as a competitive contest despite the loss. Boboye, an experienced Nigerian coach with a proven NPFL track record, was brought in to improve performance and bring tactical stability to the Benin Arsenal.

“I just came into Bendel Insurance, so I don’t really talk about rivalries. I think the work done today by both teams was good. Unfortunately, Shooting Stars took their chance and won the game,” Boboye said.

The former league-winning coach declined to comment on officiating, insisting his focus remains on football development.

“I don’t talk about referees. When we start seeing real improvement, then we will talk. It’s not because we lost today that I will start complaining,” he stated.

Boboye also reaffirmed his team’s philosophy of playing expressive football wherever they go.

“My team doesn’t have a home or away mentality. We want to express ourselves and play good football. It was just unlucky for us to lose today,” he concluded.

The victory strengthens Shooting Stars’ campaign under Nurudeen Aweroro, while Bendel Insurance will look to bounce back as Kennedy Boboye continues his rebuilding project with the Benin Arsenal.

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