The 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season enters its second week, and all eyes will be on the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin as Bendel Insurance host Shooting Stars SC in what promises to be a high-stakes clash. Both sides are searching for their first victory of the campaign after suffering defeats on the opening weekend.

A Battle of Redemption

Shooting Stars, the Oluyole Warriors, endured a frustrating start at home, falling 1–0 to Bayelsa United at the Lekan Salami Stadium. Bendel Insurance also stumbled, losing away to El Kanemi Warriors. With neither side off the mark yet, the pressure is firmly on both managers and players to respond quickly.

Head-to-Head Record

History suggests this fixture is finely balanced. In their last six meetings:

• Shooting Stars have won 2

• Bendel Insurance have won 2

• 2 ended in draws

Interestingly, both teams have struggled on the road in this fixture, with each side losing their last two visits to the other’s ground. That statistic alone adds an extra layer of unpredictability to Sunday’s clash.

Players to Watch

Shooting Stars SC

• Promise Awosanmi – tasked with leading the line and providing attacking spark.

• Mustapha Lawal – the dependable goalkeeper whose presence will be vital.

• Ismail Ayodele – quick, direct, and capable of unlocking defenses from the wings.

Bendel Insurance

• Isaac Omijie – a constant threat in front of goal.

• Austin Osayande – brings drive and stability in the middle of the park.

• Kayode Oke – expected to marshal the defense in front of the home crowd.

What to Expect

With both teams desperate to recover from opening-day defeats, this encounter is set up as a tense and tactical battle. The margins will be slim, and the team that shows sharper finishing and greater discipline could walk away with all three points.

Match Details

• Fixture: Bendel Insurance vs Shooting Stars SC

• Competition: NPFL 2025/26 – Matchday 2

• Venue: Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin

• Kick-off: 4:00 PM

• Live Coverage: Propel Web & NPFL Live App