Paradise News

Tag: General Sports

  • Burkina Faso hold Nigeria in FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup qualifier

    Burkina Faso and the Flamingos of Nigeria played out an intense 1-1 draw in the first leg of the third-round qualifier for the 2024 U17 Women’s World Cup.

    With first-leg hosts Burkina Faso failing to provide a good enough venue, the match was played at a neutral venue, the Stade 26 Mars in Bamako, Mali.

    Flamingos star, Chidi Harmony opened the scoring for Nigeria early in the second half, only for Rainata Oubda to equalize for Burkina Faso late in the game and force a draw.

    Despite Nigeria’s early dominance and control over possession and other key stats of the match, both teams struggled to find the back of the net in the first half due to a combination of missed opportunities and solid defending in Bamako on Saturday May 11.

    To bring life into the game, Nigeria’s Chidi Harmony broke the deadlock in the 55th minute to spark more pressure from the home side.

    Despite having another chance to extend Nigeria’s lead, Chidi Harmony’s effort went wide, allowing Burkina Faso to capitalize on a defensive error and level the score through Rainata Oubda.

    The return leg is set to take place on May 18 at the Abuja National Stadium, where the winner will secure a spot in the fourth and final round of the qualifiers.

    The victor of the Nigeria-Burkina Faso clash will then face the winner between Senegal and Liberia for a chance to compete at the 2024 U17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic

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  • Chippa United coach makes Stanley Nwabali exit verdict

    Head coach of South African PSL side, Chippa United, Thabo September has shed light on the uncertain future of first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

    Stanley Nwabali’s impressive performances for the Nigeria national team at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have attracted attention from several clubs .

    Nwabali has enjoyed a significant rise in recent months. Six months ago, he was just another Nigerian goalkeeper in the South African Premier League. However, things changed at the turn of the year, when coach Jose Peseiro invited him to the Super Eagles 2023 Africa Cup of Nations squad following Francis Uzoho’s inconsistencies.

    The 27-year-old goalkeeper recorded four clean sheets in the competition and saved two penalties in the shoot-out against South Africa in the semifinals to help the Super Eagles clinch silver.

    Multiple reports suggest that clubs such as Al-Ettifaq from Saudi Arabia, Queens Park Rangers from the England Sky Bet Championship, and Kaizer Chiefs have expressed interest in acquiring the Nigerian goalkeeper this summer.

    Addressing the ongoing transfer speculation, Chipa United coach Thabo September admitted that he cannot guarantee Nwabali’s stay with Chippa United beyond this summer.

    “While I wouldn’t use the term ‘fear,’ there is certainly a significant possibility of losing him,” September stated in an interview with SABC Sport. “It’s a part of the nature of the club and the football industry.”

    Stanley Nwabali joined South Africa’s Chippa United from Katsina United in 2022 and has since emerged as a key player for the team.

    At the moment, his future at the club remains uncertain amidst growing interest from other clubs.

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  • Paris 2024: Anuoluwapo Opeyori Makes History with Olympic Qualification

    Anuoluwapo Opeyori cemented his place in sporting history by becoming the first Nigerian badminton player to qualify for the Olympics back-to-back. 

    The 26-year-old’s feat was confirmed by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) on Saturday.

    Opeyori, a two-time African Games champion who has dominated the African badminton scene since 2019 boasts a trophy cabinet of four African Championship titles and two African Games titles in the men’s singles category.

    Reacting to the news with jubilation, President of the Badminton Federation of Nigeria (BFN), Francis Orbih, declared that Opeyori has finally “broken the jinx” for Nigerian badminton on the Olympic stage. 

    Orbih sees Opeyori’s qualification as a testament to the BFN’s dedication to fostering world-class talent and emphasized the federation’s unwavering commitment to supporting young players in their quest for podium finishes.

    “History has been made,” Orbih proclaimed. “Anuoluwapo Opeyori has secured a spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, as confirmed by the BWF. I am incredibly excited and proud. Opeyori is not only the first Nigerian badminton player to feature in the men’s singles at the Olympics, but also the first Nigerian to qualify for two consecutive Games.”

    Orbih acknowledged the previous achievements of Dorcas Adesokan (women’s singles) and Godwin Olofua (men’s doubles) who represented Nigeria at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. However, for the Badminton No. 1 man in Nigeria, Opeyori’s solo qualification for Paris 2024 marks a significant milestone.

    The BFN president urged Opeyori to maintain his relentless training regime and reach peak form before the Games. “We will ensure he participates in training tours leading up to the Olympics,” Orbih confirmed, underlining the federation’s support for Opeyori.

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  • Catalyst! Ademola Lookman scores as Atalanta book Europa League final place

    Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman was the catalyst for Atalanta’s dominant 3-0 victory over Marseille, securing their place in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.

    Lookman’s early goal set the tempo for Atalanta’s commanding performance, ultimately leading to a resounding 4-1 aggregate triumph over Marseille after a 1-1 draw in the first leg.

    In addition to Lookman’s impactful contribution, goals from Matteo Ruggeri and El Bilal Toure further solidified Atalanta’s superiority, leaving Marseille grappling with a bitter defeat.

    The Gewiss Stadium witnessed Atalanta’s relentless attacking prowess, defying expectations set by French President Emmanuel Macron, who favored Marseille for victory.

    In a showdown marked by determined play, Lookman and his teammates dashed Marseille’s aspirations, setting the stage for a thrilling final clash against unbeaten Bayer Leverkusen, who clinched their spot after a dramatic draw with AS Roma in Germany.

    The prospect of Super Eagles stars Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella facing off against Ademola Lookman in the final adds an intriguing narrative for Nigerian football fans.

    Furthermore, Atalanta’s remarkable success under Gian Piero Gasperini, a traditionally provincial club, underscores their ability to exceed expectations.

    With a chance to secure two trophies this season, including the Italian Cup final against Juventus, Atalanta’s achievements mark a significant milestone for a club with limited prior European success.

    As Atalanta vies for a spot in next season’s revamped Champions League, their upcoming match against Roma holds crucial implications, potentially determining their fate in Italy’s top club competition standings.

    READ MORE: Joselu: Three key insights into the journey of Real Madrid’s unlikely UCL hero

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  • NPFL fans still over the moon following UFC star’s donning of Enyimba’s merchandise

    Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) fans are still head over heels after UFC star, Israel Adesanya arrayed himself in an Enyimba jersey.

    Adesanya, renowned for his prowess in the octagon, shared a snapshot on his X account adorned in the away Enyimba jersey, captioning it “Soaring to new heights… Pray you keep up the pace” alongside Nigerian flag, eagle, and star emojis.

    Enyimba FC, based in Aba, Abia State, holds a storied legacy within Nigerian football as one of the most successful clubs in Nigeria and boasts an impressive record of domestic and continental achievements. The club has clinched the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) title numerous times and made significant strides in continental competitions, including winning the prestigious CAF Champions League on two occasions.

    SportsDokita (Odogwu ) tweeted, “Former UFC Champion, Israel Adesanya seen rocking Enyimba FC of Aba’s 3rd kit and it’s a beauty!!!! I need to get this jersey for myself and special kudos goes to Enyimba FC Chairman, legendary Papillo, Kanu Nwankwo.”

    READ MORE: Ilechukwu, Rangers, not thinking of winning NPFL this season

    Respected journalist Adepoju Tobi Samuel (@OgaNlaMedia) commended Adesanya for elevating the Enyimba jersey to international acclaim while emphasizing the need for concerted efforts to enhance the NPFL’s stature as a prominent brand. “We can all play our part and make the NPFL a big brand and product… Making the NPFL better needs serious work and years of consistency and implementation of new policies. Thank you @stylebender for adding brand value to @EnyimbaFC and NPFL .”

    Other fans also expressed their joy on Twitter.

    Ebubedike (@EbubedikeOchu) said “Repping the @EnyimbaFC jersey, nice one supporting the home base clubs.” Another fan Edu Aba (@chifavourr) tweeted “This Enyimba FC you’re putting on gives me great joy”.



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  • Stanley Eguma axed by Rivers United after 16 years

    The longest serving coach in the Nigeria Premier Football League, Stanley Eguma has been reportedly sacked by Rivers United after sixteen years at the helm.

    Eguma was said to have been axed immediately after Rivers United’s 2-1 defeat to Remo Stars on Monday.

    The experienced tactician was mandated by the club to win the game against the Sky Blue Stars after falling to  a 2-1 defeat on the previous matchday to Bayelsa United.  Rivers United were on their way to carry the day after Andy Okpe scored from the spot for the visitors but Hadi Haruna’s equalizer and Franck Mawuena’s winner crushed the Pride of Rivers to back-to-back defeats.

    Eguma, nicknamed ‘Capelo’ guided the club to lift the NPFL trophy in 2021, and equally led the Pride of Rivers to a second place finish in the 2016 domestic top flight. This term, he led the team to the quarter finals of the CAF Confederations cup where they got eliminated by USM Algiers. Before reports of his sack emerged, Rivers United were 13th in the League standings.

    On Thursday, Evans Ogenyi was on the sidelines instead of his former boss to dish instructions to the team which fought hard to garner a point against Kwara United in an affair that was drought of goals.

    The Port Harcourt based side are currently 11th on the NPFL log with 41 points but still have three outstanding games to play, thanks to their sojourn in the CAF Confederation Cup tourney where they had the best run among Nigeria’s representatives.

    The outstanding games for Rivers United include two away fixtures against Sunshine Stars and Abia Warriors and a home fixture against Niger Tornadoes.

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  • Cameroon bolsters FIFA 2026 World Cup bid with 16 recruits

    Cameroon’s Football Federation (FECAFOOT) have recruited sixteen new technical staff led by Head Coach Marc Brys to bolster their chances of qualifying for the FIFA 2026 World Cup. 

    Samuel Eto’o, President of the Cameroonian Football Federation announced in a circular released by FECAFOOT on Thursday. 

    Marc Brys leads the new lineup of recruits having signed his contract as Head Coach. The former FC Eidhoven boss is expected to guide the Indomitable Lions to their ninth World Cup tournament. The 61-year-old who has never coached a national team or African side will be assisted by Joachim Mununga, Ndtoungou Mpile Martin, and Pagou David in crucial coaching roles.

    FECAFOOT has enlisted Giannis Xilouris as Video Analyst to enhance performance analysis, while Idriss Carlos Kameni takes on the role of Goalkeeper Coach to bolster the goalkeeping department.

    Christophe Manouvrier joins as Fitness Trainer, focusing on player conditioning and readiness. Dr. Fotso Gwabap Patrick Joel, along with physiotherapists Daniel Che Awah and Elias Kaleguem Fomekong, will oversee player health and recovery.

    Benoit Christian Angbwa assumes the role of General Coordinator of National Teams, managing logistics and coordination, with support from Serge Reinold Pensy and Sarah Ntui in assistant roles.

    OTHER NEWS: Age fraud scandal rocks Cameroon Football Federation, 62 players suspended

    Nicolas Alnoudji takes charge as Team Manager, overseeing day-to-day operations and player welfare. Elie Thierry Ndoh will serve as the Team Media Officer, handling communications and press relations, while Arnold Ebolo Abada acts as Liaison Officer.

    FECAFOOT’s recruits for the Cameroon men’s national team

    • Head Coach: Marc Brys
    • Assistant Coach: Joachim Mununga
    • Video Analyst: Giannis Xilouris
    • Assistant Coach 1: Ndtoungou Mpile Martin
    • Assistant Coach 2: Pagou David
    • Goalkeeper Coach: Idriss Carlos Kameni
    • Fitness Trainer: Christophe Manouvrier
    • Doctor: Dr. Fotso Gwabap Patrick Joel
    • Physiotherapist: Daniel Che Awah
    • Physiotherapist: Elias Kaleguem Fomekong
    • General Coordinator of National Teams: Benoit Christian Angbwa
    • Assistant Coordinator 1: Serge Reinold Pensy
    • Assistant Coordinator 2: Sarah Ntui
    • Team Manager: Nicolas Alnoudji
    • Team Media Officer: Elie Thierry Ndoh
    • Liaison Officer: Arnold Ebolo Abada

    Brys’ first task with his new charges will be to navigate the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Cape Verde and Angola respectively in June.

    Cameroon who have appeared at the World Cup finals more than any other African nation, currently sit top of Group D in the qualifiers, though level on four points with both Cape Verde and Libya. The Indomitable Lions are only superior by goal difference. 



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  • Mike Fofana masterclass hands Rivers Hoopers first 2024 BAL defeat

    Mike Fofana delivered a career-defining moment with a buzzer-beater shot, propelling AS Douanes to a thrilling 56-54 victory over Rivers Hoopers.

    The win marked a significant turnaround for the hosts of the 2024 Sahara Conference, improving their record to 2-2 in a tightly contested game that went down to the wire.

    Rivers Hoopers’ Will Perry had tied the game at 54-54 with just four seconds remaining, capitalizing on a technical foul on AS Douanes’ bench. However, AS Douanes’ coach Mamadou Gueye refused to entertain the idea of overtime, calling a crucial timeout to draw up a play that ultimately decided the final outcome.

    Executing Coach Gueye’s strategy to perfection, Mike Fofana rose to the occasion, sinking the game-winning shot at the buzzer to hand the Nigerian champions their first defeat of the 2024 Basketball African League.

    Fofana, reflecting on his performance, described it as the most significant shot of his career, hailing the trust Coach Gueye placed in him.

    READ ALSO: Meet the 2024 NBA MVP award winner

    “That was the exact play. [Coach Gueye] He drew it for me to set down the screen, catch-and-shoot, and I just made the play,” said Mike Fofana who hit the game-winning buzzer-beater shot.

    “This is the biggest shot of my career, easily. This is my first walk-out game. I will never forget this one,” added Fofana who finished with 6 points.

    The victory halted Rivers Hoopers’ three-game winning streak, setting the stage for a riveting conclusion to the conference with two games remaining.

    AS Douanes’ collective effort was instrumental in securing the win, with standout performances from players like Madut Akec, Abdoulaye Harouna, and Adama Diakhite.

    Despite the setback, Rivers Hoopers’ center Peter Olisemeka remained optimistic, vowing to bounce back stronger in their upcoming clash against APR.

    Olisemeka, who recorded a double-double with 16 points and 18 rebounds, expressed confidence in his team’s ability to overcome adversity.

    “It’s one of those nights where things don’t always go as planned,” said Olisemeka who recorded his first BAL double-double of 16 points and 18 rebounds.

    “We are going to come back stronger,” he added.

    Looking ahead, AS Douanes will face US Monastir on Saturday, seeking to build on their momentum and continue their ascent in the conference standings.

    READ MORE: BAL 2024: Nigerian champions down US Monastir to keep perfect record

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  • Bayer Leverkusen stages thrilling comeback to secure Europa League final spot

    Bayer Leverkusen pulled off a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Roma and book their ticket to the Europa League final.

    The result extended Leverkusen’s unbeaten streak to an unprecedented 49 games, marking a historic milestone under the stewardship of manager Xabi Alonso.

    Trailing 2-0 from the first leg, Roma mounted a spirited challenge, with Leandro Paredes converting two penalties to level the tie. However, Leverkusen refused to be deterred, as an own goal from Roma’s Gianluca Mancini tipped the scales back in their favor.

    The drama reached its peak in stoppage time when substitute Stanisic capitalized on a golden opportunity, slotting home a decisive goal that ignited jubilant celebrations among the home crowd. With a 4-2 aggregate victory secured, Leverkusen clinched their place in the final.

    Throughout the match, both sides showcased their attacking prowess, with Leverkusen’s Matej Kovar and Roma’s Mile Svilar producing standout performances between the posts. Moments of brilliance peppered the game, with near misses and heroic saves adding to the suspense.

    Ultimately, Leverkusen’s resilience and determination prevailed, propelling them to the Europa League final in Dublin on May 22. Their achievement not only marks a historic milestone in European competition but also pays homage to the legacy of Eusebio-led Benfica, whose unbeaten record they surpassed.

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  • ‘ Trust Jackson and forget about Victor Osimhen’ – Former Chelsea midfielder urges Blues

    Chelsea FC have received advice from former midfielder Emmanuel Petit to stick with Nicolas Jackson and not pursue the signing of Victor Osimhen.

    The Blues have been strongly linked with a move for Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen who is heavily tipped for a move away from Napoli, with Chelsea seeking to bolster their attacking options this summer.

    However, Senegal international Jackson, who is in his debut season at Stamford Bridge, has faced criticism for missing clear-cut chances for the London club, with fans urging the club to pursue a new forward in his stead.

    In light of this, Emmanuel Petit has sensationally advocated for Chelsea to maintain faith in Senegalese forward, Nicholas Jackson rather than acquiring Osimhen or any other striker.

    “Chelsea do not need [Victor] Osimhen or [Alexander] Isak. We all know about the No.9 curse at Chelsea, and in the last couple of months, we’ve seen what [Nicolas] Jackson can do,” Petit stated to Grosvenor Sport.

    “There’s no need to put more pressure on him by signing someone like Isak. You need competition in every position, but when you have someone like Jackson starting to emerge, don’t put pressure on him and let him explode. For me, if I’m Chelsea, I’m not buying Isak as Jackson is already beginning to flourish,” Petit remarked.

    Despite Petit’s comments, Chelsea remain frontrunners in the race for Victor Osimhen’s signature this summer, with PSG in hot pursuit as well.

    Osimhen already has a release clause in his contract and so Chelsea and other admirers are aware of what it will cost to take the CAF Footballer of the year away from former Italian champions, Napoli.

    READ MORE: Fabrizio Romano confirms Chelsea, Newcastle are interested in Fulham star

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