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Rivers United suffered their first defeat of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season after losing 2–1 to Bendel Insurance in Benin City on Sunday, October 25, putting fresh pressure on the league leaders in an increasingly competitive title race.
Bendel Insurance secured all three points in the Matchday 10 encounter, with Freeman Wuchirwe putting the hosts ahead early in the second half. Rivers United responded through Chijioke Mbaoma, who restored parity for the Port Harcourt-based club and appeared to keep the visitors on course for another positive result.
However, Jonathan James struck deep into stoppage time to hand Bendel Insurance a dramatic victory. The late goal ended Rivers United’s unbeaten start and gave the home side a significant boost in their campaign.
Despite the setback, Rivers United remain among the leading contenders for the league title. The result left them level on 17 points with Rangers International and Nasarawa United, making the battle for the top position increasingly tight.
Nasarawa United strengthened their own challenge with a 1–0 victory over former champions Enyimba in Lafia. Jofrank Joshua scored the decisive goal in the 23rd minute, extending Nasarawa United’s winning run and highlighting their growing confidence this season.
Elsewhere, Ikorodu City and Shooting Stars played out an entertaining 2–2 draw in Lagos, while Niger Tornadoes defeated Abia Warriors 1–0. Kun Khalifat also recorded a narrow 1–0 win over Inter Lagos.
Rivers United will now be looking to recover quickly from the defeat and maintain their challenge for the championship as the season progresses. With several teams separated by little more than goal difference, every result could prove crucial in determining who finishes at the top of the table.
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