Shooting Stars vs Bendel Insurance Prediction: Hosts expected to win

The NPFL encounter between Shooting Stars and Bendel Insurance is set to take place at Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan. The home team is considered the favorites, while the visiting side is seen as the underdogs. 

In their recent matches, Shooting Stars secured only one victory, which was against Rivers United at home. However, during the same period, they faced defeats against Enyimba both at home and away, with two games ending in draws against Sporting Lagos and Plateau United. Across these matches, Shooting Stars scored five goals and conceded the same number. In the current league season, Shooting Stars averaged 1.05 goals per match. Notably, they struggle to maintain possession, with an average possession rate of 48.50% in this season.

Bendel Insurance comes into this match with two victories in their last five games, securing wins against Enugu Rangers and Sporting Lagos. However, they faced defeats in their matchups against Bayelsa United and in the second leg against Sporting Lagos, while one fixture ended in a draw against Enyimba. Across these matches, the away team scored five goals and conceded four. In their away games, Bendel Insurance averaged 0.81 goals scored per match and conceded 0.57.

Ball possession has been a challenge for Bendel Insurance, with an overall average possession of 48.38% in this season.

Both teams have displayed inconsistent performances, but Shooting Stars have shown relatively better home performances. With an aim to improve their standing, I am predicting that Shooting Stars will emerge victorious in this match. Additionally, considering that the previous four meetings between the two teams have seen both sides scoring, I anticipate a similar outcome in this encounter.