Paradise News

Tag: General Sports

  • Joe Aribo to play in the Premier League next season

    Super Eagles midfielder Joe Aribo will be gracing the Premier League next season after Southampton secured a dramatic return to the top flight with a 1-0 victory over Leeds United in the Championship Playoff Final.

    Adam Armstrong haunted Leeds once again, replicating his goalscoring feats from the regular season encounters, to fire Southampton back to the Premier League with a well-placed strike in the first half.

    Aribo, a key figure in the midfield, played the entire match as Southampton capitalized on their numerical advantage to control possession and dictate the tempo. This victory marks a clean sweep for the Saints against Leeds this season, with Armstrong scoring the decisive goal in all three meetings.

    The win at Wembley, dubbed “the richest game in football,” carries significant financial implications. According to experts, Southampton could potentially earn a staggering £305 million over the next three seasons if they avoid relegation. This windfall comes from increased revenue streams in matchday attendance, broadcasting rights, and commercial deals.

    Despite finishing three points behind Leeds in the regular season table, Southampton managed to overcome their rivals in all three encounters. Manager Russell Martin’s possession-based philosophy proved highly successful, with Southampton boasting the highest possession statistics across Europe’s top five leagues.

    After relegation in the 2022-23 season, finishing rock bottom, Southampton has bounced back remarkably under Martin’s leadership. Previously relegated in 2005, it took the club seven years, including two stints in League One, to return to the Premier League. This time, however, the turnaround has been swift and efficient, marking a successful season for the South Coast side.

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  • Aribo shines as Southampton bag Premier League Promotion

    Nigerian midfielder Joe Aribo delivered an impressive performance as Southampton secured promotion back to the Premier League with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Leeds United in the Championship playoff final at Wembley Stadium.

    Aribo played a pivotal role for Southampton throughout the playoffs, starting all three matches contested by the Saints. The team, which was the only side to achieve a league double over Leeds during the campaign, clinched their third win at the National Stadium with top scorer Adam Armstrong netting the decisive goal in the first half.

    Twenty-four minutes into the contest, Armstrong found the bottom corner with a brilliant finish after being played through on goal by Will Smallbone.

    The promotion means Southampton is set to receive a windfall of at least $178 million, according to an analysis from Deloitte’s Sports Business Group.

    Aribo, who played the entire match, showcased his skills and composure, completing 84% of his passes, creating one chance, and making one key pass. His performance also included the most dribbles in the game, highlighting his influence on the field.

    READ MORE: Guardiola commits to Manchester City after sixth Premier League Title

    Southampton’s victory means the club will join Leicester City and Ipswich Town, who secured automatic promotion, in the Premier League for the 2024/25 season.

    Leeds United, managed by Daniel Farke, must now prepare for another challenging season in the Championship after falling just short in the final.

    For Joe Aribo, the return to the Premier League marks a significant achievement after experiencing relegation with Southampton last season. His standout performance in the final is likely to catch the attention of new Super Eagles manager Finidi George, from whom Aribo was initially overlooked for World Cup qualification games against South Africa and Benin Republic in June.

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  • Enyimba forward Bernard Ovoke delighted with mach-winning goal against Abia Warriors

    Enyimba forward Bernard Ovoke has expressed his happiness following his decisive goal in the Oriental derby against Abia Warriors. Ovoke’s strike secured a 1-0 victory for Enyimba, earning them crucial points.

    The former Kwara United forward shared his delight, emphasizing the significance of his first goal for the People’s Elephant. “I feel so great to help the team with my first goal for the club,” Ovoke told Enyimba’s media team. “I feel so happy for the feat.”

    This important win propelled Enyimba to second place on the Nigeria Premier Football League table.

    Enyimba assistant coach, Lawrence Ukaegbu says their oriental derby win over Abia Warriors will motivate the team in the fight to retain the title.

    Ukaegbu admitted that the game was tough but was satisfied with the outcome.

    READ MORE: Fans thrilled with exciting outcomes as NPFL returns after month-long break

    “I knew definitely that it was going to be a tough match,” he said in his post-match interview.

    “The win gives me happiness because Abia Warriors proved a hard knot to crack.

    “Abia Warriors game was one of the difficult fixtures we had in the remaining matches of the season but the win gives us a clearer view of achieving our goals of defending the NPFL title.”

    In his remarks, Abia Warriors assistant coach, Igwe Madubuike has admitted that Enyimba deserved the victory in their Oriental derby clash.

    He however expressed his team’s readiness to make up for the defeat on the road.

    “I don’t feel good with the performance and the result of the game,” he said in a post-match interview.

    “No doubt that Enyimba has more quality players than Abia Warriors and they showed the quality in the game.

    “We need to make up for the defeat in our away game in order to stay up on the table.”

    Abia Warriors are 12th on the Nigeria Premier Football League table with 44 points from 33 games.

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  • NPFL: Rangers excite Flavour in dominant performance against Bayelsa United 

    Rangers International delivered a commanding 3-0 victory over visiting Bayelsa United F.C. in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Sunday at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu. The match was attended by Nigerian music star Flavour, Ijele 1 of Africa, adding a touch of celebrity glamour to the event.

    Rangers never allowed Bayelsa United to find their footing. The attacking duo of Okorie Chiedozie and Godwin Obaje received ample support from a well-coordinated midfield, keeping the visitors constantly on the defensive.

    Despite Rangers’ dominance, Bayelsa United’s defence, particularly goalkeeper Elkanah Godgift, put up a strong resistance, making several crucial saves. However, the breakthrough came just before halftime. 

    In the 41st minute, Godwin Obaje scored the opener, assisted by Okorie Chiedozie, who delivered a precise cross after a brilliant setup by Isaac Saviour. This goal, Obaje’s 10th of the season, ignited celebrations among the home fans.

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

    The second half saw Rangers intensify their assault. In quick succession, they scored two more goals in the 66th and 68th minutes. Obaje netted his second of the match and 11th of the season after receiving a cross-field pass from Isaac Saviour, navigating through several tackles to score. Okorie Chiedozie then sealed the victory with a goal assisted by substitute Chidiebere Nwobodo.

    This emphatic win allowed Rangers to maintain their top position in the league, boasting 60 points from 33 matches with a record of 18 wins, 6 draws, and 9 losses. They have scored 49 goals and conceded 31. Defending champions Enyimba trail closely with 56 points from the same number of matches.

    Speaking after the game, coach Fidelis Ilechukwu praised his team’s performance. “It was a good game with a good result from my boys,” he said. 

    “It would have been more embarrassing for our opponent had we been able to convert more chances, but we will keep working until the end of the season to achieve our targets. Bayelsa United was challenging, but we came prepared. We shall approach our next matches like cup finals as the season gets tougher each week.”

    Rangers will face Sporting Lagos next at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, on June 2, 2024.



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  • Akwa United out of relegation zone with win over Lobi Stars

    Akwa United secured a crucial 2-1 away victory against Lobi Stars, moving them out of the relegation zone in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL). 

    The match, held at the Lafia City Stadium, marked Akwa United’s second away win of the season and a double over Lobi Stars, having previously beaten them 1-0 in Eket.

    The 2021 champions, desperate for a win to boost their survival chances, started the game in the relegation zone. Their determination was evident early on, and their efforts paid off in the 22nd minute. 

    Striker Sani Suleiman capitalised on a defensive error, latching onto a loose ball outside the box after a failed clearance of Seyi Oguntayo’s cross. Suleiman’s deflected shot found the back of the net, giving Akwa United a 1-0 lead.

    READ MORE: Super Eagles Star Olanrewaju Kayode’s estranged wife denies infidelity claims

    Suleiman continued to be a thorn in the side of Lobi Stars’ defence, creating several scoring opportunities. However, goalkeeper Daniel Atsaka managed to thwart his attempts to extend the lead. On the defensive end, Akwa United’s backline, led by Heutchou Gerome, Wisdom Ndon, David Philip, and Samuel Ganda, provided robust protection for goalkeeper Badmos Nurudeen, maintaining their 1-0 advantage into halftime.

    Akwa United forward Sani Suleiman

    Akwa United forward Sani Suleiman has 8 goals this season in the NPFL (Photo credit: Nsidibe Akpan/The Athletic Images)

    In the second half, coach Baba Ganaru’s tactical adjustments paid off. Midfielder Micheal Egbeta, substituted in for Edidiong Ezekiel, made an immediate impact. Egbeta’s perfectly timed through pass found Suleiman, who rounded the goalkeeper to score his second goal of the game and his eighth of the season.

    Lobi Stars responded with a goal from former Akwa United winger Aliyu Abubakar, whose powerful shot from inside the box flew past Nurudeen, reducing the deficit to 2-1. Despite this, Akwa United managed to hold on, withstanding late pressure from the home side. While Ubong Friday and Osoba Kabir missed chances to extend the lead.

    The win propelled Akwa United to 15th position on the table, with 40 points from 33 matches. Next, they will shift focus to the President Federation Cup, facing Kebbi United at the Bwari Mini Stadium in Abuja on Wednesday, before returning to league action against Heartland FC on Matchday 34 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

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  • Nigerian music star Flavour to watch Rangers v Bayelsa United NPFL fixture in Enugu

    The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) resumes this Sunday for the final six matches of the season after a month-long hiatus to allow Rivers United to complete their outstanding fixtures.

    League leaders Rangers International, under the innovative leadership of General Manager Amobi Ezeaku, are setting the pace both on and off the pitch. The Flying Antelopes are not only leading in points but also fan engagement and club promotion.

    This Sunday, Rangers will host Bayelsa United at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. Adding to the excitement, popular highlife legend Flavour is set to perform, promising a memorable matchday experience for the fans.

    Rangers International have gone all out to ensure their supporters are entertained, securing one of Nigeria’s biggest musical acts to perform at the Cathedral in Enugu on matchday 33. The club hopes that Flavour’s presence will inspire the team to victory as they aim to maintain their position at the top of the league.

    Under the guidance of Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, the Cathedral has become a fortress for Rangers this season. The team have not lost a single home game since the campaign began, winning their last four matches in Enugu. Their last home game without a win was a 0-0 draw against Kwara United in March.

    READ MORE: Nwabali casts shade on NPFL wages

    Rangers are also making strides in branding and visibility within Nigerian football. The club has actively involved supporters and local businesses to create awareness and promote the Rangers brand, while also supporting local enterprises.

    Among the local businesses partnering with the club are Amakris Kitchen, the new catering partner for officials and players, Puzzle Classic Clothing, the official supplier of formal and traditional wear, and Kitchen Pastries Company, the official pastries partner.

    Beyond local partnerships, Rangers are making a mark on the global stage by promoting sustainability in football. At the second African Football Agents Association (AFAA) conference in Nairobi, Kenya, in April, Rangers’ Director of Legal Services, Barrister (Mrs.) Nnenna Nwomeh Esq., emphasised the importance of comprehensive strategies for long-term success in African football.

    “African football boasts a rich heritage and immense potential, yet it grapples with numerous challenges that hinder its sustainability,” Nwomeh stated. “Issues such as inadequate infrastructures, financial instability, governance deficiencies, and lack of youth development programs plague the continent’s football landscape. 

    “While African nations have produced world-class talent and experienced sporadic successes on the global stage, sustained progress remains elusive without addressing these systemic issues.”



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  • Super Eagles Star Olanrewaju Kayode’s estranged wife denies infidelity claims

    Wife of Nigerian footballer Olanrewaju Kayode, Ezinne has firmly denied allegations that a DNA test proved her children are not fathered by the Super Eagles star.

    These claims, which have circulated on social media and various blogs, suggested that the children were instead fathered by Pastor Tobi Adegboyega.

    The controversy emerged a few months ago, with reports alleging infidelity, fraud, and even kidnapping involving Dora. According to Instablog, Kayode accused his wife of having an affair with Pastor Adegboyega, a connection supposedly made through socialite Daddy Freeze and his partner.

    The allegations went further, suggesting that Dora had lied about her age, stolen two Mercedes SUVs from Kayode to fund an extravagant lifestyle for Pastor Adegboyega, and conspired with accomplices to seize Kayode’s property.

    Reports also claimed that a DNA test had shown that Kayode was not the father of Dora’s children. However, these assertions have been debunked by Dora through a legal statement issued in conjunction with relevant authorities.

    In her statement, Dora clarified that the DNA test results were false and unfounded. She emphasised that the rumors have caused significant distress and are entirely baseless. The legal document, which was attached to her public statement, seeks to clear her name and provide evidence against the damaging accusations.

    Super Eagles Star Olanrewaju Kayode's wife, Ezinne denies infidelity claims

    Super Eagles Star Olanrewaju Kayode's wife, Ezinne denies infidelity claims

    Olanrewaju Kayode, who has recently joined Turkish club Umraniyespor on loan, has not publicly responded to these latest developments. Despite the scandal, the legal statement by Dora aims to put an end to the rumors and restore some peace to their family amidst these challenging times.

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  • NNL Chairman happy with National League clubs Federation Cup performance

    Nigeria National League (NNL) Chairman, George Aluo says he is happy over the impressive performance of NNL clubs in the ongoing President Federation Cup.

    George Aluo commended the teams for representing the league well and attributed their success to the supportive environment fostered by the NNL board.

    The 2023/2024 season has seen a significant improvement, with seven NNL clubs advancing to the Round of 16 in the prestigious competition. The teams making a strong statement include Super 8 contenders Ikorodu City, Sokoto United, Inter Lagos, El-Kanemi Warriors, along with Wikki Tourists, EFCC, and Kebbi United.

    Last season, five clubs—Heartland, Edel FC, EFCC, Doma FC, and Warri Wolves—reached this stage. This year’s achievement marks a notable progress.

    Aluo expressed his congratulations: “First and foremost, I want to congratulate Ikorodu City, Inter Lagos, Sokoto United, El Kanemi Warriors, EFCC, Wikki Tourists, and Kebbi United for qualifying to the President Federation Cup Round of 16.”

    READ MORE: 2024 FA Cup round of 16 fixtures released

    He highlighted the upcoming fixtures: “With the fixtures, at least two NNL teams are guaranteed to be in the quarter-finals because Ikorodu City will meet Inter Lagos while Sokoto United and Wikki Tourists, who eliminated the defending champions Bendel Insurance, will meet EFCC.”

    Aluo noted that the clubs’ success is a testament to the enabling atmosphere provided by the NNL board and stakeholders. “Our NNL clubs are doing well based on the enabling atmosphere my board and every stakeholder has provided to see that football develops under the right atmosphere. With what we are witnessing in the President Federation Cup and four of the teams who qualified for the Super 8 already in the Round of 16, it shows that the best of football in ‘The Most Important League’ will be on display for all to see and enjoy.”

    President Federation Cup Round Of 16 Fixtures

    Wikki Tourists vs EFCC

    Kebbi United vs Akwa United 

    Elkanemi Warriors vs Shooting Stars

    Ikorodu City vs Inter Lagos 

    Kwara United vs Abia Warriors 

    Sokoto united vs Enyimba

    Sunshine Stars vs Rivers United

    Katsina United vs Kano Pillars

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  • Ademola Lookman named in UEFA Europa League team of the season, picks best goal award too

    Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman has earned a spot in the UEFA Europa League Team of the Season. This prestigious selection was made by the UEFA Technical Observer panel and marks the first time Lookman has been included in this lineup.

    The Nigerian forward’s second goal in the 3-0 final victory against Bayer Leverkusen was selected as the best of the season.

    Lookman triumphed over several notable players, including his international teammate Victor Boniface, West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Olympique Marseille, and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao.

    In the memorable moment, Lookman received a pass from a teammate, nutmegged Granit Xhaka, and curled the ball into the far left corner of the net. His impressive performance in the final also earned him the Man of the Match award.

    Lookman’s outstanding contribution came during Atalanta’s historic triumph in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen. The Nigerian international scored a memorable hat-trick, leading Atalanta to a 3-0 victory. This win not only secured Atalanta’s first trophy in 61 years but also marked their maiden triumph in a European competition.

    Lookman’s exceptional performance in the final earned him the Man of the Match award as well as the Player of the Week prize. His teammates Granit Xhaka and Jeremie Frimpong also made it to the UEFA Europa League Team of the Season, showcasing Atalanta’s collective success in the competition.

    The inclusion of Lookman in the Team of the Season reflects his impactful contributions throughout the Europa League campaign, culminating in a memorable performance on the grandest stage of the final.

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  • Super Eagles Assistant Coach Benjamin James shares what he knows about Finidi, Amokachi

    Finidi George, Daniel Amokachi and Benjamin James form the core of the new Super Eagles of Nigeria coaching crew. In a recent interview, Benjamin James has revealed the information he has about his new colleagues.

    Weeks after the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) appointed Finidi George as the head coach of the Super Eagles, the football federation announced the appointment of Benjamin James and Daniel Amokachi as the assistant coaches of the national team.

    With their first major challenge—the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa on June 7 and Benin Republic—drawing closer, the newly formed coaching team has yet to convene for planning.

    Benjamin James, a former player for Shooting Stars in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), is currently juggling his responsibilities as the Super Eagles assistant coach with his role in the technical crew at German Bundesliga club Hoffenheim. Despite his busy schedule, the 53-year-old tactician is confident that he, Amokachi, and head coach Finidi George will develop an effective strategy for the national team once they meet.

    “I have gathered some experience to believe that if I, Finidi and Amokachi sit down in the same room, we’ll come out with something good,” Benjamin James told Brila FM. “The pattern to be played will be discussed by the three of us. The players present in the squad currently are good, it’s just about putting them in the right place.”

    James praised Finidi George’s temperament and expressed optimism about working with Amokachi, despite not having had the chance to get to know him well.

    “Finidi is a cool-headed person, I’m not so familiar with Amokachi, but I believe he’s also a cool-headed person and I believe we can rub minds together and come up with the best,” James added.

    As the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial qualifiers, the collaboration between the experienced coaches is anticipated to play a vital role in the team’s performance. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the combined expertise of Finidi, James, and Amokachi will shape the Super Eagles’ strategy and execution on the field.

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