Tornadoes Coach Majin Applauds Players’ Fight Despite Benin Loss

Niger Tornadoes head coach Mohammed Majin commended his squad’s resilience even after their 1–0 defeat to Bendel Insurance at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Benin City.

Majin highlighted his team’s commitment to their attacking approach despite the result, insisting that they “didn’t set out to defend” and maintained their game plan until the end. He acknowledged the disappointment of the loss but praised the players for continuing to press forward and for their determination in challenging conditions.

Editorial

We commend Coach Mohammed Majin’s perspective on this match focusing on resilience and intent rather than simply the outcome highlights a mindset that is often missing in the aftermath of narrow defeats. It takes confidence and clarity of vision to insist on an attacking identity even when the result doesn’t go your way. This suggests that Majin is trying to instil a long-term philosophy in his players, one that values character and courage in adversity.

However, while intent and effort are critical, football is ultimately judged by results. Niger Tornadoes showed hunger, but they also showed moments of vulnerability particularly in dealing with sustained pressure from Bendel Insurance. At some point, resilience must be matched by sharper decision-making and defensive solidity. Without that balance, good intentions can too easily become empty promises.

What Majin’s remarks also hint at is a larger issue in the NPFL the fine line between playing attractive football and getting nothing from it. Too often, teams cling to stylistic ideals even when adapting tactically might offer better chances of points. Tornadoes’ adherence to an attacking mindset in this match is admirable, but it raises the question of whether the team has the flexibility to switch strategies when necessary.

We believe that Tornadoes are on the right track in terms of identity, but they must also develop pragmatism. The ability to read a match, to absorb pressure, and to protect results when needed is as important as the willingness to attack. If Majin can successfully teach his squad to marry bravery with tactical intelligence, then this team could begin turning narrow defeats into draws, and eventually into wins. For now, the challenge remains converting those displays of resilience into tangible points on the table.

Did You Know?

1. Niger Tornadoes are nicknamed the “Ikon Allah” and play their home fixtures at Bako Kontagora Stadium in Minna.
2. The club reached the final of the Nigerian FA Cup in 2017 but lost on penalties.
3. Tornadoes were relegated at the end of the 2012 season but won promotion back to the NPFL in 2015.
4. Coach Majin Mohammed has emphasized conditioning and high-intensity play in his training sessions, aiming to instil a proactive style in Tigers players.
5. Bendel Insurance, who defeated Tornadoes, are based in Benin City and have a strong record of giving visiting teams a tough time at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium.