A goal from Sunday Megwo in the 40th minute was enough for Abia Warriors to clinch a 1-0 away victory against Bendel Insurance, marking their first away win of the Nigeria Premier Football League season.

The Warriors delivered a strong performance, earning a well-deserved win and handing the Benin side their first home loss of the campaign.

Abia Warriors head coach Imama Amapakabo made just one change to the team that beat Plateau United 3-1 in Umuahia, replacing Emmanuel Ogbuagu with Wilson Elu due to illness.

The match began as a tactical battle, with both teams evenly matched and minimizing errors. However, as the game progressed, Abia Warriors began to create opportunities, with the trio of Paul Sampson, Sunday Megwo, and Daniel Ekpo becoming increasingly influential.

Megwo opened the scoring just before halftime, showcasing his striking instincts. After receiving a pass from Innocent Godwin at the center circle, Sampson maneuvered past his defender and delivered a cross into the box, where Megwo was poised to tap it in, quieting the home crowd.

The first half ended 1-0 in favor of the visitors, and the second half saw Bendel Insurance pressing for an equalizer.

Just two minutes into the half, Abia Warriors nearly doubled their lead when Megwo’s precise cross found the unmarked Philip Ewuga inside the six-yard box. However, he mis-hit the shot, leaving both the Warriors’ bench and their fans relieved.

Bendel Insurance responded with urgency, but the Warriors’ defense held firm against their advances. Instead, it was Abia Warriors who threatened to score again. A well-executed play from Ewuga found Megwo in the box, but his first-time shot was parried by goalkeeper Joshua Baba for a corner.

Despite numerous substitutions by both teams, no further goals were added, and Abia Warriors maintained their lead to secure victory over Bendel Insurance for the first time in three attempts.