NPFL: Finidi George Blames Costly Error for Rivers United Defeat to Bendel Insurance

Rivers United technical adviser, Finidi George has attributed his team's 2-1 loss to Bendel Insurance in Sunday's Matchday 10 NPFL clash in Benin City to a costly error, a result that ended their unbeaten start to the 2026/27 season.

Addressing the media after the game, Finidi noted that his players made the wrong choice at a key moment, which Bendel Insurance capitalised on.

"I would say it is football. There are moments in the game when things don't go your way. We were a bit carried away in that moment, which cost us. Our player tried to dribble instead of holding out for a corner kick," he said.

The former Super Eagles coach also admitted that his side should have defended better, while commending the hosts for their determination to claim all three points.

"We didn't defend well, which led to their goal. I think both teams tried to win. At the end of the day, they got all three points," Finidi added.

Freeman Wuchirwe broke the deadlock for Bendel Insurance after the restart, but Chijioke Mbaoma levelled for Rivers United in the 73rd minute before Jonathan James netted a late winner for the home side.

Despite the defeat, Rivers United still have 17 points from 10 games and will aim to return to winning ways in their next outing.