Returnee Bendel Insurance goalkeeper Amas Obasogie has marked his comeback to the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) with a strong performance as his team secured a commanding 4-2 victory over Kun Khalifat in Matchday 3 of the EuroMatch–NPFL 2026/2027 season at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City. The 26-year-old shot-stopper, who previously played for Singida Black Stars FC in Tanzania and Ethiopian club Fasil Kenema Sport Club, made his domestic return after a brief delay caused by international clearance paperwork. Despite not keeping a clean sheet, Obasogie expressed satisfaction with the win, emphasizing that securing three points was the primary goal.
Obasogie’s return to the NPFL was highly anticipated, especially after Bendel Insurance management expedited his clearance process to ensure he could join the squad promptly. Speaking to reporters after the match, he described returning to the club as coming home, stating, “There’s no place like home. Bendel Insurance is always a home. That’s where I started off from.” He added that it was his pleasure to contribute to the club’s resurgence, highlighting his commitment to helping the team regain its former stature in Nigerian football.
The game itself was far from straightforward despite the final scoreline. Obasogie acknowledged that Kun Khalifat posed a serious challenge, noting, “It wasn’t an easy game. Kun Khalifat is a strong team. But we gave it our all and made the most of our scoring chances.” His teammates delivered a dominant display, with Alex Oweilayefa opening the scoring just five minutes into the match. Suraju Lawal, a former Heartland and Abia Warriors forward, doubled the lead in the 19th minute, followed by Chinedu Nwosu’s third goal two minutes after halftime.
Uchechukwu Onuoha pulled one back for Kun Khalifat in the 68th minute, but Nwosu converted a penalty in the 71st minute to restore the three-goal advantage. Ebetomame sealed the win with a goal in the 85th minute, completing a six-goal thriller in Benin City. The victory marks a positive start for Bendel Insurance under Obasogie’s leadership, who has also been named captain of the team for the season.
Looking ahead, Bendel Insurance will face newly promoted Ranchers Bees in Matchday 4, while Kun Khalifat prepare to host Rangers International in an Oriental Derby at Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri. Obasogie’s return adds depth and experience to the squad, and his presence could be pivotal as the team aims for a stronger campaign in the NPFL.
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