Bendel Insurance has significantly strengthened its offensive options with the high-profile acquisition of former NPFL Golden Boot winner Chijioke Akuneto. The 28-year-old forward arrives at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium as a free agent following a successful tenure with league giants Enyimba.
Akuneto brings a wealth of domestic experience to the Benin Arsenals, having recorded 34 goals in 128 top-flight appearances throughout his career in the Nigeria Premier Football League.
The versatile attacker previously achieved stardom at Rivers United, where his 19-goal haul during the 2021/22 campaign earned him the Eunisell Golden Boot and a league title. His pedigree also includes international recognition, having represented Nigeria at the U-23 level and earned caps for the home-based Super Eagles during CHAN qualification. Bendel Insurance management expects the veteran’s clinical finishing and tactical intelligence to revitalize an attack that seeks to propel the 2023 Federation Cup champions up the NPFL standings.
Akuneto’s integration into the squad comes at a vital time as the club enters the business end of the season. His ability to play across the front line provides head coach Monday Odigie with various tactical configurations. Fans of the Benin Arsenals look forward to seeing their new number 9 in action as the club aims for a continental qualification spot.
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