Wikki Tourists Coach Relieved After Hard-Fought Draw Against Bayelsa United

Wikki Tourists assistant coach, Bashir Sale, says he is satisfied with his team’s 1-1 draw against Bayelsa United in their Matchday 14 fixture at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi, on Sunday.

The Bauchi Elephants were expected to capitalize on home advantage, but the visitors put up a spirited fight, forcing a share of the points despite sustained pressure from the hosts.

Sale admitted the contest was far tougher than anticipated.

“Thank God that it ended in a draw, though it was not the result we prepared for,” he said shortly after the match.

The result means Wikki Tourists must now shift focus to an equally challenging assignment as Abdullahi Maikaba’s men travel to Benin City to face Bendel Insurance this weekend.

Opinion: A Draw That Feels Like a Warning—and an Opportunity

For Wikki Tourists, this wasn’t just another home game—it was a test of mentality. Playing at home in front of expectant fans often comes with pressure, and Sunday exposed areas that still need sharpening, especially in creativity and finishing.

However, Sale’s reaction reflects maturity. Instead of dwelling on disappointment, he recognizes the value of securing at least a point in a tricky fixture. In the NPFL, where momentum can shift within weeks, a draw is sometimes better than a deflating defeat.

The real story now lies in Benin City. Bendel Insurance are disciplined, well-organized, and notoriously difficult to break down—meaning Wikki Tourists must show hunger, tactical improvement, and belief.

If this draw serves as a wake-up call, it could spark the consistency the team needs. After all, champions aren’t defined by perfect games—but by how they respond after imperfect ones.