Paradise News

Tag: General Sports

  • Quadri Aruna vaults back to top of African table tennis rankings

    Nigerian table tennis legend, Quadri Aruna, has emphatically reclaimed his position as the king of African table tennis. The 35-year-old icon surges back to the number one spot in Africa, according to the latest ITTF rankings released on Tuesday.

    Aruna’s impressive performances, including his recent victory at the 2024 ITTF Africa Cup, propelled him to 17th in the world rankings, displacing his Egyptian rival, Omar Assar. Assar, who briefly held the top spot in Africa after winning the 2024 African Games, now finds himself at number two on the continent and 22nd in the world rankings.

    The expiration of points earned at the 2023 World Championships contributed to Assar’s drop. Meanwhile, Egypt’s Mohamed El-Beiali, who fell to Aruna at the Africa Cup, sits at number three in Africa (49th worldwide).

    On the women’s side, Egypt maintains its dominance with Dina Meshref retaining the top African ranking (24th globally). Her compatriot, Hana Goda, follows closely at 31st in the world rankings.

    Source

  • OFFICIAL: Vincent Kompany is Bayern Munich head coach

    Bayern Munich have officially named Vincent Kompany as their new head coach on a three-year contract. The 38-year-old Belgian steps in to replace Thomas Tuchel, who departed at the end of the season.

    To secure Kompany’s services, Bayern Munich agreed to pay Burnley a compensation fee of approximately £10.2 million.

    Kompany’s arrival follows a challenging stint at Burnley, where he faced relegation from the Premier League. Despite this setback, his extensive experience, Bundesliga familiarity from his time at Hamburg, and fluency in German made him a compelling choice for Bayern.

    Bayern Munich’s search for a new head coach included several high-profile rejections from the likes of Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso, Germany’s Julian Nagelsmann, and Austria’s Ralf Rangnick. Kompany, however, accepted the prestigious position, becoming the latest manager to lead the German giants.

    READ MORE: Carlo Ancelotti reveals when he will stop coaching

    Kompany began his managerial career at Anderlecht before moving to Burnley, where he led the team to the Championship title in 2023. Burnley confirmed his departure, expressing gratitude for his dedication and understanding the allure of Bayern Munich.

    Burnley’s statement read: “We understand the allure and prestige of a club like Bayern Munich and respect Vincent’s ambition to explore new opportunities. We wish him the best and appreciate his dedication during his time with us.”

    Kompany, a four-time Premier League winner with Manchester City, shared his enthusiasm about the new role: “It’s a great honor to work for FC Bayern. As a coach, I love having the ball, being creative, and being aggressive on the pitch. I look forward to working with the players and building a team.”

    Bayern Munich’s sporting director, Max Eberl, praised Kompany’s ambition and potential: “Vincent Kompany is hungry and has everything he needs. Even as a player, he was a leading figure in top international football and is making progress as a coach.”

    Christoph Freund, Bayern’s sporting director, added: “Vincent Kompany fits well with FC Bayern’s playing philosophy. He brings a lot of international experience and knows exactly what should happen on the pitch. He can and will give our team an enormous amount.”

    Kompany’s appointment comes as Bayern Munich aims to rebound from their first trophyless season in 12 years. His primary task will be to restore the club’s dominance in both domestic and international competitions, leveraging his vast experience and connections in the football world.

    Source

  • El-Kanemi Warriors face transfer ban over unpaid wages to ex-players

    El-Kanemi Warriors’ dreams of returning to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) could be dashed by a looming transfer ban.

    The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) ruled in favor of three former players whose contracts were unlawfully terminated and ordered the club to pay outstanding wages within 30 days.

    Bala Yusuf Mohammed, Adoyi Emmanuel, and Suleiman Sadiq Abubakar, represented by FIFA Licensed Agent Mr. Eddie Iseri Ogbemudia, successfully challenged El-Kanemi Warriors’ actions through the NFF Players’ Status and Arbitration Committee.

    The NFF found El-Kanemi Warriors guilty of breaching the players’ contracts and ordered them to pay 50% of the owed salaries.

    While Mr. Ogbemudia expressed reservations about the percentage, he praised the committee’s improved functionality.

    “The Nigeria Football Federation deserves commendation, particularly the committee in charge of Players’ status and Arbitration,” Ogbemudia said. “In the past, nothing would have happened, but this response and decision gives me the confidence that we can push for more. I was before the committee just a few days ago in Abuja where I presented the case of our clients. I know it’s a process, but with time we will get it right.”

    Ogbemudia’s legal team is currently analyzing the decision, particularly “areas that are not too clear to us,” he explained. “We shall advise our clients accordingly on the next steps to take.”

    Source

  • Maduka Okoye reveals how he feels about Nigeria recall

    Maduka Okoye was in fine form for Italian Serie A side Udinese in the just concluded season and so it is no surprise that he has earned a recall to the Super Eagles of Nigeria team.

    Ahead of his arrival alongside other invited players, the former Sparta Rotherdam safe hands has revealed how he feels about his recall by new head coach, Finidi George.

    Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye has said it’s an honour for him to return to the national team.

    The 24-year-old shot-stopper has been out of the national team since October 2023 when he turned down the invitation to play in an international friendly against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique.

    READ MORE: Nigerian music star Flavour to watch Rangers v Bayelsa United NPFL fixture in Enugu

    He subsequently missed the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where Stanley Nwabali displaced Francis Uzoho to become Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper.

    In the most recent callup, Maduka Okoye was among the players invited for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa and Benin.

    His performance this season with Udinese has caught the attention of the Super Eagles coach Finidi George and so he joins Stanley Nwabali and Ojo Olorunleke as goalkeepers for the double header in June.

    ” I am very happy to return to the national team, it is a great honour for me and my family to play for Nigeria “, he said.

    Maduka Okoye made 22 appearances for Udinese in all competitions this season.

    Source

  • NPFL 2023/2024 Season: Key statistics released with five weeks to go

    With five matches left to play, the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has unveiled detailed statistics for the ongoing 2023/2024 season, revealing key insights into the performance of teams and players so far.

    According to the data from the NPFL Competitions Unit, a total of 25 away wins have been recorded across 330 matches played this season.

    Goals and Matches:

    • A total of 708 goals have been scored in the 330 matches, averaging over 2 goals per game.
    • Home teams have secured 251 wins, while away teams have managed 25 victories.
    • There have been 79 draws throughout the season.

    Top Performers:

    • Leading Goal Scorer: Sikiru Alimi from Remo Stars leads with 14 goals.
    • Best Attacking Team: Rangers International, with 49 goals scored.
    • Best Defensive Team: Bendel Insurance, having conceded only 25 goals.
    • Worst Defensive Team: Gombe United, with 61 goals conceded.

    Disciplinary Records:

    • A total of 1,268 yellow cards have been issued, and 43 players have been sent off with red cards.

    Penalties:

    • The season has seen 85 penalties awarded, of which 65 were successfully converted and 20 missed.
    • There have also been 13 own goals scored.
    READ MORE: Akwa United out of relegation zone with win over Lobi Stars

    Team Performance:

    • Rangers International are currently top of the league with 60 points, boasting the best attack with 49 goals scored and 31 goals conceded.
    • Bendel Insurance stands out for its strong defensive record, conceding the least number of goals (25).

    Breakdown of Statistics:

    • Total Matches Played: 330
    • Total Wins: 251 (Home Wins: 226, Away Wins: 25)
    • Total Draws: 79
    • Total Goals Scored: 708 (Home Goals: 512, Away Goals: 196)
    • Total Penalties: 85 (Converted: 65, Missed: 20)
    • Total Own Goals: 13
    • Total Yellow Cards: 1,268
    • Total Red Cards: 43

    The statistics highlight the competitive nature of the NPFL this season, showcasing the dominance of home teams and the challenges faced by away teams.

    Source

  • Carlo Ancelotti reveals when he will stop coaching

    Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has made a significant revelation about his future, expressing his desire to retire at the Spanish club.

    As he prepares for yet another UEFA Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund, Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed his commitment to the club where he has enjoyed tremendous success.

    Ancelotti, now 64, recently guided Real Madrid to a La Liga title, finishing ahead of their arch-rivals Barcelona. His focus is now set on the upcoming Champions League final against Borussia Dortmund, where he has the opportunity to secure Real Madrid’s 15th title in this prestigious competition.

    Throughout his tenure at Real Madrid, Ancelotti has amassed notable achievements, including Champions League triumphs in 2014 and 2022.

    His dedication to the club was underscored in a recent interview with La Repubblica, where he shared his intention to conclude his managerial career at Real Madrid:

    “I will retire as Real Madrid manager. My career will finish at Real Madrid. As long as Real Madrid want me to stay, I will be here available for the club.”

    READ MORE: Real Madrid sink Bayern Munich to reach Champions League final

    Ancelotti’s statement reflects his deep connection with Real Madrid and his desire to continue contributing to the club’s illustrious legacy.

    His career, marked by numerous accolades and a reputation as one of the most successful managers in football history, will seemingly find its endpoint at the Santiago Bernabéu.

    Despite recent speculations linking Ancelotti with the Brazil national team job, he has remained steadfast in his role at Real Madrid. This decision points to his unwavering loyalty and commitment to the club, further solidifying his legendary status among Madridistas and football fans worldwide.

    Source

  • Former Super Eagles defender Efetobore Sodje urges support for Finidi George

    Former Super Eagles and Luton Town defender, Efetobore Sodje has called on Nigerians to support Finidi George, the newly appointed coach of the Nigerian national football team.

    Sodje, known for wearing a bandana with the words “against all odds” during his playing days, earned twelve caps for Nigeria and scored one goal. Despite being born in England, he played an important role for the Super Eagles.

    A few weeks ago, the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) appointed Finidi George to lead Nigeria to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Recently, Finidi announced his 23-man squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.

    In an interview with Brila, Sodje emphasised the importance of trusting and supporting Finidi rather than focusing on his player selections. He believes that with collective support, Finidi can bring back the glory days of the Super Eagles.

    “Every manager has their trusted players. I’m sure the technical side of the NFF helped him with some picks since he’s new to the job. However, having worked with Peseiro, Finidi knows the players he wants to work with,” Sodje said.

    “As ex-players and fans, we need to support him because we all share the goal of qualifying for the World Cup. We should pray and be positive about his choices, hoping he gets the results needed to take us to the World Cup. I wish him good luck and hope for the right results,” the 51-year-old added.

    Nigeria is set to play against South Africa on June 7th at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, with the match kicking off at 8 pm.

    Source

  • Akwa Ibom State Football Association unveils new logo

    The Akwa Ibom State Football Association (AKSFA) has introduced a fresh logo, marking a new era for the association. This significant development was announced by the new board, led by Chairman Samuel Umoh, who promptly took action following their official inauguration. 

    The decision to adopt a new logo came in response to feedback from supporters who felt that the previous design did not adequately represent the association’s status.

    The unveiling took place on Friday, May 24, 2024, during the first-ever Solemn Assembly organised by the association. This event, aimed at ushering in the new administration, provided the perfect occasion for the logo’s debut in front of Akwa Ibom State’s football stakeholders and enthusiasts.

    The new logo, featuring an orange and green background to reflect the state’s colours, incorporates a football-shaped design within an oval, symbolising the core mission of the association. It has been met with widespread approval and praise from the football community.

    The Solemn Assembly, held at Uyo Township Stadium, was a Christian gathering intended to seek divine guidance and commit the leadership of the FA to God. Attendees included officials from the Ministry of Youth Development and Sports, FA board members, local FA members, football coaches, and other key stakeholders.

    READ MORE: Akwa United out of relegation zone with win over Lobi Stars

    Pastor Ita Ana, the spiritual head of Ekemini Abasi Fellowship Centre in Itu Local Government Area, addressed the assembly, focusing on the theme of “Restoration” from Joel 2:25-26. He encouraged the FA members and football stakeholders to trust in God for guidance and restoration.

    Chairman Samuel Umoh emphasised the importance of the Solemn Assembly, noting its role in committing the association’s leadership and football administration to divine guidance. He called for unity and support from members and stakeholders to ensure the success of the current board, pledging to include everyone in his plans.

    Various speakers at the event described the Solemn Assembly as a positive milestone in the history of Akwa Ibom State football. Prayers were offered for the state, the FA, both government and private football teams, and the overall growth of sports in the region, led by Apostle Dr. Godwin Bassey of the Mount Zion Light House Full Gospel Church, Aka Itam Diocese, Uyo.



    Source

  • Fans thrilled with exciting outcomes as NPFL returns after month-long break

    Nigerian football fans were thrilled with the thrilling outcomes from Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) matchday 33 games decided on Sunday, May 26, 2024.

    Recall that the league was put on hold for one month to allow CAF Confederation Cup quater-finalists, Rivers United to prosecute their outstanding matches.

    On its resumption, the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) witnessed thrilling encounters as hostilities resumed in the ongoing 2023/2024 season, with surprising results reverberating across various match venues in the country.

    Defending champions, Enyimba FC, showcased their title-defense prowess with an impressive away triumph in Umuahia against Abia Warriors. Bernard Ovoke emerged as the hero, netting a solitary goal off the bench in the 72nd minute to secure victory for Enyimba. This crucial win propelled them to the second spot on the league table with 56 points, trailing league leaders Rangers International by four points.

    READ MORE: Rangers excite Flavour in dominant performance against Bayelsa United 

    In a surprising upset in Lafia, Akwa United stunned Lobi Stars with a 2-1 victory on enemy turf, shattering Lobi Stars’ unbeaten home record. This victory not only lifted Akwa United out of the relegation zone but also signaled their resurgence in the league.

    History was etched in Port Harcourt as Seiyefa Jackson, the 2024 NPFL U-17 league champion and Golden Boot winner, marked his debut for Rivers United in grand style against Sporting Lagos. Jackson’s presence was immediately felt as he found the back of the net, contributing to Rivers United’s emphatic 4-1 victory over Sporting Lagos.

    In other noteworthy developments, Wasiu Alalade’s lightning-fast 18-second goal against Remo Stars has now been recognized as the fastest goal scored in the ongoing NPFL season. This remarkable feat occurred as Kwara United emerged victorious in a pulsating five-goal thriller against Remo Stars, elevating them to the 11th position on the league standings.

    In Enugu, Nigerian music sensation, Flavour Nabania entertained excited fans as Rangers International defeated Bayelsa United 3-0 to close-in on the league title.

    NPFL Match Day 33 Results:

    • Lobi Stars 1-2 Akwa United
    • Katsina United 2-2 Shooting Stars
    • Abia Warriors 0-1 Enyimba FC
    • Kano Pillars 3-1 Doma United
    • Rangers 3-0 Bayelsa United
    • Kwara Utd 3-2 Remo Stars
    • Rivers Utd 4-1 Sporting Lagos
    • Sunshine Stars 0-0 Bendel Insurance
    • Heartland FC 3-0 Gombe United
    • Plateau United 0-0 Niger Tornadoes

    Source

  • Rivers Hoopers grab historic BAL semis spot after thrilling win over US Monastir

    Rivers Hoopers Basketball Club have made history as the first Nigerian side to reach the semi-final of the Basketball Africa League after a 92-88 quarterfinal victory over US Monastir of Tunisia at the BK Arena in Kigali, Rwanda, on Monday.

    The Kingsmen started strongly and took a five-point lead into the break at 45-40 before holding on to seal the deal despite a late push from the 2022 Champions.

    In a tension-soaked encounter, Will Perry emerged as the game’s top scorer, pouring in a massive 33 points for Rivers Hoopers. Three other players – Peter Olisemeka, Kelvin Amayo, and Divine Eke – also stepped up with crucial contributions, each registering double-digit points (18, 18, and 16 respectively).

    US Monastir put up a valiant effort, led by Marcus Crawford’s impressive 31 points, the second-highest of the game. Ousamma Marnaoui chipped in with 22 points for the Tunisian side, while Sadio Doucoure and Ater Majock added 14 and 11 points respectively. However, it wasn’t enough to overcome a determined Rivers Hoopers squad.

    Up next for Rivers Hoopers is a semi-final clash with Al Ahly Benghazi of Libya, who stunned defending champions, Al Ahly of Egypt 86-77 on Sunday.

    The much-anticipated semi-final showdown between the Nigerian and Libyan sides will take place on Wednesday, where another piece of history awaits the Nigerian team.

    Source