Kwara United endured a narrow 1-0 home defeat to Bendel Insurance of Benin in a gripping Matchday 33 fixture of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) held at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl, George Innih Stadium, Ilorin.

The home side, nicknamed The Harmony Boys, came into the game buoyed by a crucial away point from Plateau United last weekend. However, they failed to build on that momentum, missing several early scoring opportunities in front of a supportive home crowd.

Their wastefulness was punished in the 33rd minute when Kayode Oke capitalized on poor marking to head in a corner kick, giving Bendel Insurance a well-deserved lead. The goal turned out to be the decider of the day.

In the second half, Kwara United showed greater urgency, with Philip Ozoh anchoring the midfield through timely tackles and precise distribution. The trio of Wasiu Alalade, Ismaila Gatta, and Mohamed Alao came close to leveling the scoreline, but Bendel Insurance goalkeeper stood tall, making several key saves to keep his team ahead.

After the match, Coach Tunde Sanni voiced his frustration over the missed opportunity to secure all three points at home.

"It's painful to lose at home again. We're experiencing hard luck lately, and it's frustrating," he said.

He noted the absence of key players Shola AbdulRaheem and Akanni Akeem affected the team's rhythm, but he remains optimistic that their return will strengthen the squad going forward.

Despite the setback, Kwara United remain 11th on the NPFL table, and they now turn their focus to a busy schedule. They face Heartland FC next weekend in Owerri, but before that, they will battle Solution FC in the Round of 16 of the President Federation Cup on Wednesday at 10am at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.