Tag: General Sports

Dr Patrice Motsepe, President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, have finalized a historic four-year extension of their partnership.

The agreement, announced just a day after the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Final draw, will see TotalEnergies continue as the primary sponsor for 12 major CAF events from 2025 to 2028.

The renewed partnership includes high-profile tournaments like the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2024, TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, and the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda in 2027.

Additionally, the energy giants will support the CAF African Schools Football Championship from 2025, a key initiative aimed at fostering football development among young boys and girls across the continent.

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CAF President Dr. Motsepe expressed his enthusiasm.

“CAF is excited to continue its partnership with TotalEnergies and its Chairman and CEO Patrick Pouyanné, whom I respect and have known for many years. This partnership contributes to the development and global competitiveness of football in the 54 African countries whose Football Federations are Members of CAF.”

The South African billionaire further outline CAF’s initiatives to develop football on the continent.

“CAF has introduced several projects over the past few years to develop the game, including the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, TotalEnergies CAF U-23 Africa Cup of Nations, and the TotalEnergies CAF Futsal Africa Cup of Nations. This partnership plays a significant role in advancing these initiatives.”

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Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, emphasized the company’s long-standing commitment to Africa.

“TotalEnergies has been present in Africa for over 90 years, and we are proud to continue supporting the continent’s football growth.

This partnership goes beyond sponsorship—it’s about empowering the next generation of African footballers and enhancing the global visibility of the sport in Africa.”

With over 90 years of experience in Africa, TotalEnergies remains dedicated to supporting the continent’s sports and energy sectors while leading the charge in energy transition.

Source: The Athletic NG

Enyimba International striker Brown Ideye, has expressed concern over the declining standards of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), urging for improvements if the league hopes to compete successfully at the continental level.

The 36-year-old began his football career in the NPFL with Bayelsa United during the 2006/2007 season. He later moved to Ocean Boys, where he won the NPFL title that same year.

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After his time in Nigeria, Ideye played for European clubs such as Neuchâtel Xamax, Sochaux, Dynamo Kyiv, West Bromwich Albion, Olympiacos, Tianjin Teda, and Malaga.

He recently returned to the NPFL to join Enyimba International, where he has scored two goals in six matches.

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Despite his positive experience at Enyimba, Ideye is troubled by the decline in the league’s overall standard since his last appearance in Nigeria.

“The system is getting worse, the league is not improving. I feel we have a long way to go, and while my time at Enyimba has been enjoyable, there are many aspects of the league that need serious improvement,” Ideye said in an interview

Ideye, who won the 2013 AFCON with Nigeria, also pointed out that inadequate player welfare is a key factor contributing to the poor performance of NPFL teams in continental football.

“In terms of traveling, feeding, hotels, and helping players relax, everything is subpar. Nigerians and the clubs are not ready for continental football. We need to get our house in order before competing on the continental stage, instead of going there and embarrassing ourselves,” he added.

Enyimba International currently sits 9th on the NPFL table, 12 points behind leaders Remo Stars.

Source: The Athletic NG

Sevilla president Víctor Orta has provided a significant update regarding Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho, revealing he has 3 offers.

Iheanacho, 28, who joined Sevilla from Leicester City, has struggled to find form, leading to growing speculation about his departure from the club.

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Sevilla President confirmed that discussions are ongoing with Iheanacho, who is reportedly considering his options for a move in the final week of the window.

“There is one week left, and I think there are three offers. It’s a matter of the player choosing his best option for the next six months,” Orta said.

Orta also acknowledged that the expectations for Iheanacho’s performances had not been met, though he insisted that the Nigerian’s quality is not in question.

“We all expected a higher performance from him. That has nothing to do with his quality, and there is interest from other teams,” Orta explained, adding that Iheanacho appears eager for more game time.

Sevilla’s recent signing of fellow Nigerian forward Akor Adams has only added to the speculation surrounding Iheanacho’s future, with many speculating that the Super Eagles star could be on his way out.

Clubs including West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Las Palmas, and Getafe CF have all been linked with the forward.

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The is clock ticking down on the transfer window, all eyes are now on Iheanacho’s decision as he prepares to make a choice about his next move.

Source: The Athletic NG

William Troost-Ekong, captain of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, has issued a bold statement ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), declaring that Nigeria has what it takes to dominate the competition.

Fresh off his MVP performance at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, where he played through a painful hamstring injury and led Nigeria to the final, Ekong is determined to lead his team to victory in Morocco later this year.

“We’re in Group C with tough teams like Uganda, Tanzania, and Tunisia,” said Ekong in an exclusive interview with NFF Media.

“But there’s no such thing as an easy game in Africa. We respect all our opponents, but I firmly believe that we have everything it takes to get out of this group and go all the way this time.”

Ekong, who earned the MVP award at the 2023 tournament, reflected on Nigeria’s growth and their bitter-sweet exit in Ivory Coast.

“We’ve learned so much from the last AFCON. This time, we’ll be more prepared and ready for every challenge,” he said, exuding confidence.

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“We’ve got the experience, and we’ll be working hard all year to make sure everyone is fit and ready. The whole team is excited for the new coach, Eric Chelle, and what lies ahead.”

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers kicking off in March, Ekong is already focused on leading the Super Eagles to success under Chelle’s guidance.

“It’s going to be an exciting year, and I’m thrilled with the AFCON draw. We’re ready to make history and bring home the trophy.”

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Ekong had a tremendous 2023/2024 season winning the Greek Super League with PAOK before making a mega move to Saudi Arabia to join  Al-Kholood.

Source: The Athletic NG

Asteras Tripolis has completed the loan signing of Nigerian defender Ekerette Udom from Villarreal B for the remainder of the season.

The 21-year-old centre-back, known for his physicality, aerial threat, defensive and scoring abilities, will join the Greek Super League club as part of their efforts to strengthen the backline.

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Udom, who initially signed a three-year deal with Villarreal B, heads to Greece in search of further development under Asteras head coach S. Pantelidis.

His solid performances in Nigerian football, including standout appearances in the CAF Confederation Cup with Rivers United last season, have made him a valuable addition to the team.

Before his time at Rivers United, Udom played for a number of Nigerian clubs, including Sunshine Stars, Nasarawa United, Dakkada FC, and Vandrezzer FC, contributing to their defensive and attacking foundations.

The former Vandrezzer fc defender becomes the second Nigerian to move to the Greek Super league after Super Eagles fullback Bruno Onyemaechi joined Olympiacos

The move to Asteras Tripolis provides Udom with a chance to gain more exposure in Europe as well as in the Greek Super League while further developing his skills.

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With Villarreal B in Spain’s Primera Federación – Group 2, the loan spell is seen as a key step in his growth as a player.

Udom didn’t make any appearance for Villarreal B despite making the match day squad 13 times.

Asteras Tripolis is currently in 5th place in the Super League, and Udom’s presence is expected mto bolster their defense as they push for a top-four finish.

Source: The Athletic NG

Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso confirmed on Tuesday that striker Victor Boniface is in talks to leave the club during the current transfer window.

According Sky Germany, the 24-year-old Nigerian forward is set for a move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, where he will join Cristiano Ronaldo, for a transfer fee reportedly exceeding 50 million euros ($52 million).

Boniface joined Leverkusen from Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise 18 months ago for 20 million euros.

During his time at the club, he has scored 29 goals and provided 11 assists in 49 appearances.

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However, he has not featured since suffering a hamstring injury while on international duty in November.

The striker missed training ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League match against Sparta Prague.

“There are discussions with the club, and we need to wait. We’re preparing without Boni,” Alonso said in a press conference on Tuesday.

“We’ll see. We need a bit more time, but our preparation is with the rest of the squad, who are fit, ready, and in good shape at the moment. The focus is on the last Champions League game.”

Alonso also indicated that Leverkusen are “getting close” to adding more players during the winter window, stating, “I’m very satisfied with the squad and our quality… and I will be (at the end of the window).”

In Boniface’s absence, Patrik Schick has been in excellent form, scoring 13 goals in his last nine league appearances.

The 29-year-old Czech forward commented on the potential departure of Boniface, saying, “It doesn’t change very much… I’ve always focused on myself and haven’t been concerned with anyone else. I’ll keep going as I have, whether Victor is here or not.”

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Schick, who began his career at Sparta Prague, also joked about the potential for extra attention from the opposing fans, saying with a smile, “It will be fun – I expect them to insult me from the stands.”

Source: The Athletic NG

Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface has been excused from training as a potential transfer to Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr draws closer.

The 24-year-old, whose contract with Leverkusen runs through 2028, joined the Bundesliga side in the summer of 2023.

However, he may be on the move to the Middle East after missing training ahead of Leverkusen’s Champions League clash with Sparta Prague on Wednesday.

If the transfer to Al Nassr goes through, Boniface will join high-profile teammates like Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, Aymeric Laporte, and Marcelo Brozovic.

Boniface, who previously played for Norwegian club Bodo/Glimt, made the switch to Leverkusen from Belgium’s Union Saint-Gilloise in 2023.

During his debut season, he was instrumental in Leverkusen’s success, helping the club win the Bundesliga, German Cup, and German Super Cup in 2024.

He netted 21 goals and provided 10 assists in 34 appearances for Xabi Alonso’s side.

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However, a hamstring injury in November, along with ongoing fitness issues, has limited Boniface to 15 appearances this season, in which he has scored eight goals.

Patrik Schick has since emerged as Leverkusen’s first-choice striker, netting 17 goals in 25 games.

Boniface’s last appearance for Leverkusen came on November 9 against VfL Bochum.

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On the international front, Boniface has scored one goal in 11 appearances for Nigeria but missed the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations due to injury.

Source: The Athletic NG

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced that former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo will play a major role in the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 Final draw.

The draw takes place today at the prestigious Mohammed V National Theatre in Rabat, Yobo will be joined by fellow African football legends Mustapha Hadji, Serge Aurier, and Aliou Cisse to assist with the highly anticipated draw.

The four will not only oversee the groupings but also offer expert insights on what’s to come for the continent’s top teams.

The event is scheduled to begin at 19:00 local time (18:00 GMT, 20:00 Cairo).

CAF has assembled a stellar cast for the occasion, and Yobo, who earned 101 caps for Nigeria over a distinguished 13-year international career, is one of the Super Eagles’ most celebrated players.

Under his leadership, Nigeria clinched their third AFCON title in 2013, and he represented the country in six editions of the tournament.

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Additionally, he starred in three FIFA World Cups (2002, 2010, and 2014), making 10 appearances.

As the most capped defender in Nigeria’s history, Yobo also shares the record for the highest-scoring defender with William Troost-Ekong, both having scored seven goals.

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His impressive club career included notable stints with Everton in the Premier League, where he became a fan favorite, and also with clubs in Belgium, France, Spain, and Turkey.

AFCON 2025 will be hosted in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. After a painful 2-1 defeat to Cote d’Ivoire in the 2023 final, Nigeria will be eager to claim victory in this upcoming edition.

The draw will determine the paths for 24 qualified teams, including football powerhouses like Algeria, Senegal, and host nation Morocco.

The full list of teams set to compete in AFCON Morocco 2025 includes: Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Comoros, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Mali, Morocco, Mozambique, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Source: The Athletic NG

Ibrahim Gusau, president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), is confident the Super Eagles will come out on top in their AFCON 2025 group, after being drawn alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in Group C.

Speaking about the draw, Gusau expressed optimism, calling it a favorable match-up for Nigeria.

“It is not a bad group, and I am optimistic that we will top the group at AFCON 2025,” he said.

His confidence is fueled by the team’s recent form and the progress made under the current coaching staff.

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Gusau believes that with the right preparation and strong team dynamics, the Super Eagles are more than capable of navigating the group stage with ease.

“We will do everything possible to ensure that the Super Eagles are fully prepared for the tournament. We are confident they will make Nigeria proud,” Gusau assured, emphasizing the federation’s commitment to supporting the team’s success.

The Super Eagles were runners-up in the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where they lost a narrow 2-1 final to the host nation.

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Nigerians are hopeful that this year, the Super Eagles can go one step further and claim their fourth continental title, ending a 12-year wait for the prestigious trophy.

The Full Groups for AFCON 2025:

Group A: Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros

Group B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe

Group C:Nigeria, Tunisia, Uganda, Tanzania

Group D:Senegal, DR Congo, Benin Republic, Botswana

Group E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan

Group F: Cote d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique

Source: The Athletic NG

Super Eagles and Galatasaray goal king, Victor Osimhen has been informed that Fenerbahçe may be behind his recent troubles in Istanbul.

The Nigerian forward has reacted strongly to reports suggesting Fenerbahçe’s involvement in the controversy surrounding an alleged physical altercation with journalist Tolga Bozduman.

Osimhen has vehemently denied claims that he punched Bozduman after a night out, instead vowing to pursue legal action against those responsible for the accusations.

The incident caused a stir in Turkey when Bozduman accused Osimhen of assaulting him outside a nightclub after a 3-3 draw with Dinamo Kyiv.

Bozduman alleged that Osimhen became angry after the journalist took photographs and tried to grab his camera before striking him in the head.

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He also claimed Osimhen offered money to delete the photos and threatened to “ruin” him if they were published.

Osimhen has firmly rejected the allegations, insisting that he was at an African restaurant with friends, including fellow Nigerian international Kenneth Omeruo, when the incident occurred.

The striker explained that a group of paparazzi unexpectedly appeared and began taking photos without permission. Osimhen said he was taken aback by the intrusion and politely asked for the photos to be deleted.

 

“I was never at a nightclub,” Osimhen told Turkish journalist Enes Cevahirci.

“I went to an African restaurant for dinner. Afterward, as we were admiring my friend’s new car, these guys just showed up with a camera in my face.

“I asked, ‘What is the problem?’ but they didn’t respond, they kept taking pictures.”

Osimhen added that his friends intervened and asked the journalists to act professionally, and he reiterated his request for the photos to be deleted, emphasizing his right to do so.

“I never punched this guy,” he said. “I simply told him to take down the picture. It’s my image, and I have every right to ask him to remove it.”

Some insiders within Galatasaray have suggested that Fenerbahçe, specifically Acun Ilıcalı, the club’s Vice President and media mogul, may be behind efforts to destabilize Osimhen.

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Ilıcalı, who also owns Hull City and NK Maribor, is believed to have hired individuals to monitor Osimhen and exploit any vulnerabilities.

A Galatasaray source explained to Fotospor: “A manager of our rival club (Acun Ilıcalı) is a media mogul. He may be hiring people just to follow you and find your weaknesses. Their goal is to make you unhappy and uncomfortable.”

Upon learning of Fenerbahçe’s potential involvement, Osimhen expressed his determination to stay focused and unaffected by the off-field drama.

“I’m sure this was done to me intentionally. It could have happened in Italy too. But they just tried to get into my car. The Turkish journalists harassed me. I’ve never seen anything like it, which is why I’ll be suing.”

He further added that Fenerbahçe’s efforts to unsettle him have only made him more determined.

“I’d like to thank them,” he said. “They’ve made me concentrate even more.”

Despite the pressure, Osimhen remains focused on his performances at Galatasaray, where he has been in exceptional form, scoring 16 goals and providing five assists.

He has been a key player in helping the club maintain a six-point lead at the top of the Süper Lig, ahead of their bitter rivals Fenerbahçe.

Source: The Athletic NG