By Daniel Edu
Bendel Insurance FC of Benin, Edo State, is on the cusp of a historic moment, as they prepare to step onto the Continental stage for the first time in 34 years. Their opening match of this season’s CAF Confederation Cup is scheduled against Aso Chlef of Algeria on Saturday (today).
ASO Chlef, the Algerian Cup winners of the 2022/23 season, will take on Nigeria’s Federation Cup champions, Bendel Insurance, over two legs. The victor of this clash will advance to the second round of Africa’s second-tier club competition.
Yusuf Alli, the Chairman of Edo State Sports Commission, made an appeal in a statement released on Wednesday in Benin. He urged fans of the Benin Arsenals to come out in full force to support their beloved team and boost their chances of victory.
Alli also shared that all gates to the main stadium will be open to spectators for free for the match set to commence at 4 pm.
He stated, “We want you to know what is happening with Bendel Insurance from our perspective and also from the Governor’s standpoint. The last time Bendel Insurance played at the continental level was 34 years ago. Now, we are competing on the continent, with the first match this Saturday. We need the entire stadium to be filled. We want full capacity. We have printed tickets, aired television and radio commercials. Tickets are available to everyone. It’s free.”
“All efforts have been made by the state government and our governor to host the match, ensuring that our team, Bendel Insurance, emerges victorious on Saturday,” Alli emphasized.
ASO Chlef last encountered a Nigerian team during the 2012 CAF Champions League group stage. They faced Sunshine Stars twice and were defeated in both encounters, with scores of 2-0 and 2-1.
In the meantime, the State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, encouraged the state’s residents to show strong support for the home team. He approved the provision of 10 buses to transport supporters to and from the stadium, along with hundreds of jerseys to be distributed free of charge to fans at the venue.
Addressing the players, Governor Obaseki expressed, “You have worked exceptionally hard to get where you are now. Today, I decided to be here to watch you train, to encourage you. I want you to understand that this is just the beginning. We have made arrangements to fly you to all the destinations where your matches are. We must go and win this tournament, but for Saturday, keep your spirits high. You know what it takes to win; rest well and make sure you win for us.”
“As a government, we will do our part for you. We are proud of you and proud of how you are representing us. So, continue making us proud. We are well aware of your capabilities as a team, and I will be here on Saturday to cheer you on,” he affirmed.
The return leg of the competition will take place in Chlef on the following Saturday, with the aggregate winner facing 2022 CAF Confederation Cup champions, RS Berkane, in the second round.