Odigie promises victory over RS Berkane as Obaseki hosts Bendel Insurance

Bendel Insurance’s Technical Director/Head Coach, Monday Odigie, has assured the team’s fans that they would do everything possible to beat RS Berkane in their last qualifying round of the CAF Confederation Cup.

The team, which at the weekend, defeated Aso Chlef of Algeria 4-3 in a penalty shootout after an aggregate 1-1 draw in both legs of their first round tie, will meet RS Berkane in the second round of the competition.

Speaking during a reception for the team, on Wednesday, by Odigie told Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki: “We are very grateful to you for the support you have given to the team since you came in as governor of Edo State.

“The boys will continue to give their very best to justify the huge investments and attention you have given to the team. We pray God continues to lead us to better performances as we have done.”

Earlier, Governor Obaseki commended Bendel Insurance for their outstanding performance against ASO Chlef, assuring them of sustained support to do the state proud every stage.

Receiving the victorious team, its officials and supporters at the Government House, Benin City, Obaseki reassured of his government’s commitment to sports development.

He said: “I want to thank you, my boys, for making us proud and I congratulate you for this great performance. You gave me your words and you kept your words. We thank God for your victory.

“It’s a long road ahead, but you have shown from this first outing that you are up to the task and all you need is encouragement from the owners of the club. I just want you to know that as long as I am on this seat as governor of Edo State, I will continue to support you.

“We will do everything to bring out the best in you. We believe in you, you are good and you need support and encouragement as I speak for all Edo people. We are all praying for you and are sure Edo people will all come out on September 16 to support you against the Moroccan team, just as they did the last time against the Algerians.”

The governor also commended the coach and the technical team for their commitment, adding, “I want to thank the coach and the technical officials of the team for taking this assignment very seriously and responsibly. Thanks for taking the team like your own; giving your best to the team and this is the time to give more to the team. For the supporters’ club, you have always been there, and your bus is ready.”

Also speaking at the event, Chairman of Edo State Sports Commission, Yusuf Ali, praised the governor for his support to the team. He said: “We have put up a great team, mobilised the fans and it was well executed as the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium was filled. We won the first leg and people were doubting what would happen in the second leg in Algeria. It was a very tough battle, but we won.

“This is the happiest moment for us as we drove straight from the airport to your office.”