2023 Nigeria Federation Cup: Bendel Insurance FC, Bayelsa Queens crowned champions

Bendel Insurance of Benin and Bayelsa Queens FC have been crowned 2023 Tingo Nigeria Federations Cup Champions following wins in the men and women’s final, Wednesday June 22.

Bayelsa Queens FC defeated Rivers Angels FC 4-2 on penalties to win the women’s title, a defence of their crown from the 2021 edition.

The Prosperity Ladies quickly dedicated their triumph to the memory of their fans who passed away in a fatal auto-crash on June 12.

Both finals were decided at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State, on Wednesday June 21, the men’s final happening immediately after the women’s game.

In the men’s final, Bendel Insurance triumphed courtesy of a penalty kick scored by striker Imade Osarenhkoe in the final seconds of the first half.

It was the Benin Arsenal who had the best chances of the first half in the Federation Cup final and were duly rewarded for the pressure when Referee Quadri Adebimpe awarded a penalty kick for a handball in the Rangers area.

Imade stepped up and sent a powerful shot that beat impressive Rangers goalkeeper Detan Ogundare by the tiniest of margins for the winning goal.

First half ended Bendel Insurance 1-0 Rangers International, Abdul Maikaba’s men trailing and down to ten men.

Rangers did press for an equalizer for a large portion of the second half to no avail as the Monday Odigie tutored lads held on for a 1-0 win and a title to crown their performances this season.

Insurance were crowned champions by the distinguished guests at the match venue prominent amongst them, NFF President Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, Edo State deputy governor Comrade Philip Shaibu and other top NFF officials.

The Benin Arsenal received the Tingo Federation Cup trophy plus fifteen million naira as immediate reward for their victory.

They will go on to represent Nigeria at the CAF Confederation Cup alongside Rivers United FC in the 2023/2024 season.