Venue: Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa
Bayelsa United Mount a Comeback to Overcome the Desert Warriors and Climb to 9th on the NPFL Table
Bayelsa United, also known as the Prosperity Boys, continued their impressive form with a thrilling 2-1 victory over El Kanemi Warriors in an action-packed NPFL Matchday 35 fixture at the Samson Siasia Stadium in Yenagoa. The victory not only extended their unbeaten streak but also lifted them to 9th position on the league table, alleviating relegation concerns.
The match began with Bayelsa United showing early promise. Ifeanyi Ogba came close to opening the scoring in the 12th minute with a powerful strike that hit the woodwork. However, a rare attack by the Desert Warriors led to a penalty in the 14th minute, which was expertly converted to give the visitors a surprising lead.
The Prosperity Boys responded quickly, increasing the pressure on their opponents. Their efforts were rewarded just four minutes later when Jawad Mustapha coolly converted a penalty to bring the game level, igniting the home crowd. Unfortunately, the first half ended on a disappointing note for Bayelsa United as their star forward, Ifeanyi Ogba, was forced off due to injury after a tough tackle, with Emo James taking his place.
The second half was a tactical battle, with Bayelsa United showing more ambition while El Kanemi Warriors resorted to time-wasting tactics. Despite this, Bayelsa’s persistence nearly paid off several times. Emo James rattled the crossbar with a header, and the El Kanemi goalkeeper produced a string of stunning saves to deny attempts from Wisdom, Malik, and Saro.
The breakthrough finally came in the 89th minute. Nneoyi Eyong, a late substitute, capitalized on a chaotic goalmouth scramble to fire in the winning goal, sending the home supporters into jubilant celebrations. The result was a deserved one for Bayelsa United, whose dominance and determination shone throughout the game.
The match ended with controversy as El Kanemi Warriors’ players and officials angrily confronted the referees, but the situation was quickly contained.
After the game, Bayelsa United head coach, Ladan Bosso, praised his team’s resilience and expressed optimism ahead of their next match against Ikorodu City. He also shared hope that Ifeanyi Ogba would recover swiftly.
A spirited performance from Bayelsa United, who continue to show their fighting spirit as the NPFL season heats up!
