Tag: General Sports

On Monday, May 13, 2024, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) unveiled the complete technical team for the Super Eagles, featuring the notable addition of Chima Onyeike as the team’s fitness trainer.

Chima Onyeike’s story is one of exemplary dedication, athleticism, and a seamless transition from the football pitch to the global stage of fitness coaching.

Born in Zeist, Netherlands in 1975 to a Nigerian father, Onyeike’s upbringing embraced his dual heritage. His early passion for football saw him excel in Dutch youth clubs before embarking on a successful professional playing career in the Dutch League.

However, Onyeike’s journey didn’t conclude with his retirement from playing. Recognizing the pivotal role of fitness in sports beyond mere skill, he pursued a sports science degree, laying the foundation for his transition to fitness coaching.

Drawing upon his extensive experience as a player and newfound expertise in sports science, Chima Onyeike ventured into personal training, working with renowned footballers like Roy Makaay and Aleksandr Kerzhakov.

His exceptional skills garnered global attention, leading to prestigious roles with clubs such as Anzhi Makhachkala in Russia, PAOK in Greece, and VfB Stuttgart in Germany.

Onyeike’s ability to adapt and excel across diverse footballing cultures has established him as a highly sought-after fitness coach on the international stage.

Now, as a vital member of the Super Eagles coaching crew, his unwavering dedication and impressive background are poised to elevate the team’s fitness regimen, ensuring they remain in peak condition for major competitions.

READ MORE: NFF officially unveils Finidi George as Super Eagles head coach (PHOTOS)

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Nigerian football was rocked by tragic news as former Super Eagles winger Tijani Babangida was involved in a serious car accident along the Kaduna-Zaria expressway.

The accident, which happened last Thursday, has left Babangida in critical condition. Tragically, he lost his son and brother in the crash.

Newly appointed Super Eagles coach Finidi George expressed his condolences, sending prayers for comfort and strength to Babangida and his family during this difficult time.

“Deepest condolences to my friend and brother, Tijani Babangida, on his very painful bereavement.

“I send my prayers of comfort and strength at this trying time of mourning. May the souls of the departed find rest in God ,” he said on X.

Babangida sustained significant injuries from the accident and is currently receiving medical treatment. According to reports, his brother Ibrahim died on the spot, and his infant son also succumbed to injuries.

Emmanuel Babayaro, a close associate, shared the heartbreaking details, mentioning that Babangida’s wife also suffered severe injuries, losing one of her eyes, while others involved in the accident sustained fractures and injuries.

“This is a difficult moment for our friend Tijjani and his entire family. After the death of Ibrahim, his little son, who was battling for life in the hospital with him, also passed away yesterday (Friday), Babayaro told newsmen.

“Right now, he is traumatised by the death of his younger brother and his son, who was always with him. His wife has lost one of her eyes because a part of her face was damaged.

“The maid also suffered a fracture in her leg, the same as a young man who was hit by the ill-fated car, Babayaro added.

READ MORE: NFF officially unveils Finidi George as Super Eagles head coach (PHOTOS)

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The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officially unveiled Finidi George as the new head coach of the Super Eagles on Monday morning following his appointment in April.

The unveiling ceremony took place took place in Abuja. Notable dignitaries expected in attendance included the Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, Permanent Secretary Mrs Tinuke Watti, NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, and General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi.

Finidi George previously served as assistant coach under former Super Eagles boss Jose Peseiro. The NFF tapped him for the head coach role after his successful stint as an assistant.

The former Super Eagles’ winger played a key role in the technical crew that guided Nigeria to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final. Additionally, he led Enyimba FC, a two-time CAF Champions League winner, to the Nigeria Premier Football League title last year.

Finidi had since stepped down from his role at Enyimba to dedicate himself fully to his national team assignment.

According to reports, he will be assisted by fellow 1994 teammate Daniel Amokachi and Goal Keeper trainer Olatunji Baruwa. Finidi is also expected to bring in two assistants from Europe including a Dutch/Nigerian fitness trainer.

His immediate challenge will be to lead the Super Eagles to victory in their upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic. The matches are scheduled for June 7th in Uyo and June 11th in Abidjan, respectively.

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Super Eagles star, Ademola Lookman, has been named the UEFA Europa League player of the week.

The former Leicester City and RB Leipzig forward was in brilliant form for Atalanta against Marseille in the return Leg, having played out a 1-1 draw in the first leg in Marseille. Lookman scored the opening goal in the return leg and assisted the second goal to help Atalanta defeat Olympique Marseille 3-0 in Bergamo, securing a historic 4-1 aggregate victory to reach their first-ever European final.

The Super Eagles star player won the highest number of votes ahead of AS Roma goalkeeper, Mile Svilar who made 12 saves against Bayer Leverkusen to claim the prestigious Player of the Week accolade.

Lookman has 20 goal involvements across all competitions for Atalanta this season (12 goals and eight assists).

Gian Piero Gasperini’s side and Lookman will now take on fellow Nigerians Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella of Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League final in Dublin on May 22nd.

Following his form this season, Lookman will be one of Atalanta’s biggest threats as they bid to get their hands on the trophy for the first time in the German outfit’s history.

Bayer Leverkusen have been impressive this season with 40 wins and 9 draws in 49 competitive games and with a new record set in Europe, the Bundesliga Champions will be a hard nut for Atalanta to grind.

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Shooting Stars Sports Club head coach Gbenga Ogunbote and Niger Tornadoes striker Clinton Jeptha have won Nigeria Premier Football League awards for April, 2024.

Veteran gaffer, Gbenga Ogunbote has dethroned Rangers FC’s Fidelis Ilechukwu to be named the winner of the League Bloggers Manager of the Month award for April, 2024.

In the month under review, Ogunbote guided his team to an impressive four victories out of five matches played thus outperforming other contenders such as Stanley Eguma formely of Rivers United, Fidelis Ilechukwu of Rangers, and Majin Mohhamed of Niger Tornadoes to secure the accolade for the first time this season.

In the players’ category, Clipton Jeptha of Niger Tornadoes clinched the award, surpassing other notable contenders including Sikiru Alimi of Remo Stars, Deputy Echeta of Rivers United, Micheal Ibe of Katsina United, Junior Lokosa of Sporting Lagos, and Ubong Friday of Akwa United.

Jeptha’s stellar performance saw him lead his team to three victories in five matches, scoring a remarkable five goals for the Minna-based side.

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The fortune of Golf in Kwara State will get a significant boost as Justice Lambo Akanbi (Rtd) has vowed to support the growth of golf in Kwara State and beyond.

Justice Akanbi (Rtd) stated this while teeing-off the Emirate Global Hotel Amateur Open Tournament 2024 today, Saturday May 11, 2024, at the Ilorin Golf Club.

Justice Akanbi, who doubles as the sponsor of the golf tournament said the idea was to bring the best golfers in Nigeria to Ilorin in order to develop the game.

He said Emirate Global Hotel and Suite will continue to support the growth of sports in Kwara State.

The former Commissioner For Information and Youth Development said, “The idea was to bring golfers around the country to Ilorin and encourage our young Captain, Jide Allen, who has been doing everything possible to make Ilorin Golf Club alive. My organisation is focused on supporting the growth of sports in Kwara State.

“Golf is not only for the elite but for everyone who has the passion. The game got its breakthrough when the former Head of State, General Badamosi Babaginda visited Kwara State and asked the former Governor of Kwara State, General Alwali Jauji Kazir the location of the golf course. I led the entourage to this location and the rest is history”.

About 146 golfers are in Ilorin for the Emirate Global Hotel Amateur Open Tournament 2024.

The golfers arrived on Friday May 10, 2024, for a pre-tournament cocktail event and to familiarise themselves with the course before the competition in various categories.

The tournament kicked off in earnest at 6.00am, after an early morning shower which the golfer says makes the weather pleasant for the game.

The tournament is taking place at the 18 hole Ilorin Golf Club.

READ MORE: Meet the 2024 NBA MVP award winner

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English-born 16-year-old Nigerian, Chido Obi Martin, has announced his talent with an incredible goalscoring streak in the U18 Premier League.

Martin scored a whopping 32 goals in just 18 appearances and was awarded with two appearances against Brighton and Middlesbrough in Premier League 2 meant for the U21s.

The Arsenal youth striker has become famous for the abundance of goals at his feet. His latest hat-trick was against Chelsea on Saturday.

His scoring pedigree includes an impressive seven-goal haul in a victory over Norwich City, five against West Ham United, four goals against Fulham and Crystal Palace apiece, and ten against Liverpool (a 14-3 win) for the under-16s in November.

Obi started his career in Denmark with local side Kjobenhavns Boldklub before he moved to England to join Arsenal Academy at fourteen.
He quickly established himself as a prolific goal-scorer and was promoted to the under-18 side at fifteen.

Arsenal are keen to keep hold of the teenage striker Chido Obi Martin after a brilliant campaign in the U18 Premier League this season. According to reports, the Gunners have opened negotiations with teenage striker Chido Obi Martin after he signed with a new agent.

The Arsenal youngster finished the 2023/24 season with 32 goals in as many as 18 appearances.

Martin Obi was born to a Danish mother and a Nigerian father and is eligible to play for England, Nigeria and Denmark.

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Following his election as Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association (FA), Mr. Samuel Umoh has been actively involved in supporting teams in the South-South State.

Akwa Ibom State FA Chairman, Mr Samuel Umoh presenting an award to Akwa United FC forward Sani Suleiman before a recent NPFL game.

From his support for FC ONE Rockets in their FA Cup round-64 win to visiting and donating support items to Nationwide League One teams during the recently concluded regular season in Calabar, to rallying support for Dakkada FC and Vandrezzer FC in their battle for safety in the Nigeria National League (NNL).

On Saturday, May 11, 2024, Dakkada FC and Vandrezzer FC secured stunning away victories to retain their NNL spots amidst a tight survival race that saw South-West teams Ekiti United, Abeokuta Stormers, and 1472 FC heading down to the third tier.

Immediately after the NNL group B1 final day games on Saturday, a delighted Akwa Ibom State Football Association (FA) Chairman, Mr. Samuel Umoh, took to social media with a message of congratulations for Dakkada FC and Vandrezzer FC.

Umoh wrote on a stakeholders WhatsApp group: “Congratulations to Vandrezzer and Dakkada FC. Both teams are safe. Let’s join hands tomorrow and support FC ONE Rocket, and after that, Akwa United. It can only get better.”

On Saturday evening, Coach Emmanuel King’s tutored Dakkada FC needed at least a point to secure safety but gallantly secured a 1-2 comeback win, with teen sensation Donald Godwin bagging a brace to keep the Chosen Ones in the second tier.

This result confirmed that 1472 FC finished as the bottom side in group B1 of the 2023/2024 NNL season and will head down to the Nationwide League after a failed debut season.

Ekiti United FC were held to a 0-0 draw by Abia Comets in Umuahia, sealing their drop as they finished the season in 11th place with 24 points.

In Ogun State, Abeokuta Stormers walked over Calabar Rovers, but that was not enough to secure their spot in the NNL. Vandrezzer FC’s 2-3 away win over Coal City FC of Enugu meant the Lions finished with 26 points, one more than the Stormers, who last season played in the promotion playoff.

Meanwhile, an eventful 2023/2024 season for Akwa Ibom State-based teams continues with FC ONE Rocket (NNL) and Akwa United FC (NPFL) still battling for safety in their respective divisions.

For the Rockets, a must-win final day fixture beckons on Sunday, May 12, 2024, against Crown FC, while Akwa United FC have six games to save their season.

READ MORE: Samuel Umoh led Football Association Board supports NLO clubs, organisers in Calabar Centre

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Burnley Football Club have suffered relegation from the English Premier League, following a 2-1 loss in North London on May 11.

Burnley’s hopes of retaining their Premier League status were dashed as they succumbed to a defeat against Tottenham, sealing their relegation from the top flight.

The Clarets entered the match against Tottenham knowing that anything less than a victory would condemn them to relegation. Despite taking the lead through Jacob Bruun Larsen’s 25th-minute strike, their joy was short-lived as Pedro Porro equalized just seven minutes later for Spurs.

In a match where Burnley dominated proceedings in the second half but failed to capitalize on their chances, Tottenham ultimately secured the win with defender Micky van de Ven netting the decisive goal, relegating Burnley to the Championship.

READ ALSO: In-form Premier League stars declare Super Eagles ambition

For Tottenham, the victory kept alive their slim hopes of securing Champions League qualification. Despite a recent string of defeats raising concerns among supporters, Spurs managed to secure a crucial win to stay in contention for a top-four finish.

Manager Ange Postecoglou acknowledged the significance of the win for his team, pointing out the importance of bouncing back after a difficult period.

He went on to hail his sides dominant performance and expressed optimism for their remaining fixtures, knowing that their fate still hangs in the balance.

“We were dominant enough, their keeper was outstanding today and we had enough chances,” said Postecoglou.

“It’s always difficult when you lose four matches in a row and it is only natural there will be a bit of anxiety and a bit of stress.

“It should have been a more comfortable victory but the most important thing is we won the game.”

As Burnley faces the reality of relegation, Tottenham continues their battle for Champions League qualification, with their fate dependent on their upcoming matches against Manchester City and Sheffield United, as well as Aston Villa’s results in their remaining fixtures.

READ MORE: Premier League makes semi-automated changes to offside rule

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Super Eagles of Nigeria, new head coach, Finidi George is on the verge of relinquishing his position as the Head Coach of NPFL champions, Enyimba.

Finidi George joined the People’s Elephant in September 2021 under a two-year contract, as replacement for Fatai Osho, whose tenure concluded at the end of August 2021.

During Finidi’s tenure, Enyimba secured the Nigerian Professional Football League title in his second season and are on course to defend the title in his third.

However, Finidi has chosen to resign from his role at Enyimba to fully dedicate himself to his new role as the head coach of the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles.

In his absence, it is expected that his assistant coach, Olanrewaju Yemi (Yema), will take over the reins at the People’s Elephant for the remainder of the season.

Enyimba assistant coach Olanrewaju Yemi has expressed gratitude for his fruitful collaboration with the departing head coach, Finidi George.

In a farewell message to Finidi, Olanrewaju acknowledged the enjoyable and inspiring experience of working together for the past two years. He extended his best wishes to Finidi for his new role with the Super Eagles.

“Working with you for the past two years has been fun and inspiring,” Olarewaju wrote in his farewell message to Finidi George.

“Thank you for all you do, boss. I wish you the very best with ⁦@NGSuperEagles⁩.”

Under Finidi’s guidance, Enyimba secured their ninth NPFL title last season, showcasing his impactful tenure with the club.

As Finidi transitions to his new assignment, Olanrewaju is anticipated to assume leadership of Enyimba for the remainder of the season.

Currently occupying the third position on the table, the People’s Elephants aim to maintain their strong performance under Olanrewaju’s stewardship.

READ MORE: Gbenga Ogunbote and Clinton Jeptha win NPFL awards for April

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