Rivers United Beat Bendel Insurance 3–1 to Stay Top of NPFL Table

March 8, 2026 Chichetam

Rivers United delivered another strong performance at home on Sunday, defeating Bendel Insurance 3–1 in a Matchday 29 clash of the Nigeria Premier Football League at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.

The victory keeps United firmly at the top of the NPFL standings while extending their impressive home run under coach Finidi George.

Rivers United Maintain Momentum With Another Home Victory

After recording a 3–0 win over El Kanemi Warriors in their previous outing, United repeated the same attacking rhythm, once again scoring three goals in front of their supporters.

Interestingly, two of the players who found the net in that earlier victory were again on target against Bendel Insurance.

This time, however, the scoring order changed as Rivers United had to wait until the second half before making their dominance count.

The opening 45 minutes ended goalless despite steady pressure from the hosts. Rivers United looked more dangerous after the break and eventually broke through in the 53rd minute.

Forward Chijioke Mbaoma rose highest to head home from a well-delivered corner by Iyowuna Douglas, giving United the lead and energising the home crowd.

United Seal Win as Samuel and Obi Finish the Job

United doubled their advantage in the 81st minute when Wisdom Samuel calmly finished past the goalkeeper. Once again, Douglas played a key role by providing the assist for the second goal.

Samson Obi celebrates late goal for Rivers United in NPFL victory

Bendel Insurance managed to pull one back in the 89th minute, raising hopes of a late comeback and briefly putting pressure on the home side.

However, Rivers United responded immediately. Substitute Samson Obi restored the two-goal cushion just a minute later.

Obi reacted quickest after Seyi Oguntayo struck the woodwork with a powerful effort, calmly finishing the rebound to make it 3–1.

The result gives Rivers United back-to-back home victories with identical scorelines and secures another important three points as they prepare for a challenging run of four away fixtures in the NPFL.