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Bendel Insurance and Rangers International shared the spoils in a 1–1 draw at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, in Saturday’s Match day 17 fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The first half began attacks with winger Chimobi Igwilo troubling the Insurance defence with his pace and dribbling. Rangers also created half-chances through Kayode Oke, Elmer Arunta and Chinedu Nwosu, but neither side could find a breakthrough before the interval.
The second half was more open, with both teams pushing forward, and the deadlock was finally broken in the 81st minute.
Bendel Insurance took the lead when Promise Anyanwu finished off a move initiated by Oke, whose initial effort was saved by Rangers goalkeeper George Abine before the loose ball fell kindly for Anyanwu to tap home.
Insurance appeared set to claim all three points and a third consecutive victory until a dramatic twist in stoppage time. Rangers won a free kick from about 35 yards, and Chidozie Iwundu’s delivery deflected off Henry Onyia into the net, restoring parity and handing the visitors a share of the points.
The result leaves Rangers fourth on the table with 26 points, while Bendel Insurance move up one place to 14th. Matchday 17 continues on Sunday and Monday with nine fixtures involving league leaders Nasarawa United, Rivers United and Ikorodu City.
