Tag: General Sports

Super Eagles of Nigeria defender, William Troost-Ekong has shared his respect for Finidi George, the newly appointed head coach of the team.

In a recent interview per Soccernet, William Troost-Ekong spoke highly of Finidi, who was chosen as the permanent coach after serving as the interim coach following Jose Peseiro’s departure.

He expressed admiration for Finidi’s humble disposition and legendary status in African and Nigerian football, especially considering his achievements with Ajax in the Netherlands and Real Betis in Spain.

Reflecting on his time under Peseiro and the transition to George, Troost-Ekong hailed Finidi’s remarkable career and influence, particularly his success at Ajax where he helped secure the Eredivisie title and his notable performances in Spain, including the Copa del Rey final against FC Barcelona.

READ MORE: Enyimba head coach vows to keep fighting for NPFL title

“George Finidi is someone who is a legend. In African football, and Nigerian football, even here in Greece, whenever ex-Nigerian players are mentioned, Finidi’s name always comes up. Especially growing up in Holland, just outside Amsterdam, for someone who played so much for Ajax and achieved so much there, he’s someone I look up to and feel very connected to,” Troost-Ekong said.

Troost-Ekong also commended Finidi’s humility despite his impressive track record, highlighting his recent achievement with Enyimba in winning the league. He expressed happiness for Finidi’s appointment as the head coach, describing him as a “great guy.”

“He is always very humble, too humble for what he has achieved. Everyone recognizes the work he did for Enyimba last year when he won the league. So, for him to now get the chance to be the interim head coach [now the full-time head coach], I am very happy to see that. He’s a great guy,” Troost-Ekong added.

The Super Eagles are preparing for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and Benin Republic.

William Troost-Ekong, who is recovering from a successful surgery following an injury at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, is eager to return to action for Nigeria.

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Leicester City have emerged as champions of the English Championship, securing a 3-0 victory over Preston North End on Monday night. The Foxes’ impressive win was led by Jamie Vardy’s brace and Kasey McAteer’s header, cementing their position as one of the top teams in the second tier of English football.

Nigerian midfielders Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho played a crucial role in Leicester City’s success, with Ndidi featuring for 70 minutes in the match. Although Iheanacho was absent from the substitutes’ bench, both players will receive winners’ medals as part of the championship-winning team.

Leicester City’s title win marks their eighth championship in the second tier of English football, a record for any club in the country. The team’s promotion to the English Premier League was confirmed on Friday, and they will be presented with the Football League trophy at their final league match of the season at King Power Stadium.

Jamie Vardy, in his 12th year at Leicester, was instrumental in the team’s victory, scoring once in each half to put his side in a commanding lead. McAteer’s header sealed their 31st win of the season.

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The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has been hit with a fresh crisis as Lobi Stars players have embarked on a strike to protest the non-payment of their salaries for the past two months. The players, who have not received their salaries since March, have resolved not to train or participate in any club activity until their outstanding salaries are paid.

According to reports, the players are owed salaries for two months.

Lobi Stars, who have fallen off the title race in recent weeks, currently occupy fifth position in the table with 52 points from 32 matches.

“We have been patient enough, and we can’t continue like this,” said one of the players, who preferred anonymity. “We have families to feed, and we can’t do that without our salaries. We are demanding that the club pays us our outstanding salaries before we can resume training and playing.”

The strike by Lobi Stars players is a major blow to the NPFL, which is currently on a one-month break. The league has been plagued by financial issues, with several clubs struggling to pay their players’ salaries.

In other NPFL news, Remo Stars have moved up to second place after defeating Rivers United.

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Franck Mawuena emerged as the hero for Remo Stars in a thrilling encounter against Rivers United in a rescheduled Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) clash on Monday, May 6, 2024.

Remo Stars clinched a comeback 2-1 victory to close in on Nigerian Premier Football League leaders Enugu Rangers International FC in the race for the title.

In a tightly contested match, Remo Stars found themselves trailing at halftime after former striker Andy Okpe netted for visiting Rivers United.

However, an inspired second-half performance, led by talisman Franck Mawuena, saw Remo Stars turn the tide in their favor.

Mawuena played a key role, first by setting up Hadi Haruna for the crucial equalizer before scoring the late winner with a powerful header from a corner kick.

The victory narrowed the gap between Remo Stars and Rangers International to just one point, intensifying the title race.

READ MORE: Enugu set to welcome four foreign clubs for Coal City International Cup

Mawuena’s impact performance highlighted his importance to Remo Stars in the NPFL. With him in top form, Coach Daniel Ogunmodede and the Remo Stars are optimistic about their chances of clinching their first-ever league title.

The dramatic comeback victory further solidifies Remo Stars’ formidable home record at the Ikenne Stadium, where they have dropped just two points all season.

The Nigerian Premier Football League title race will continue after Rivers United FC have completed their outstanding matches piled up following their CAF Confederation Cup participation.

Recall the Nigerian Premier Football League board had announced a break to allow the Pride of Rivers to prosecute a packed fixture-list.

The league was paused after matchday 32 games. It will resume with matchday 33 games on the weekend of May 25-26.

Up next for United will be games against Kwara United and Sunshine Stars respectively on May 8 and May 11.

Stanley Eguma’s side would then proceed to Umuahia for their matchday 29 game with Abia Warriors and rounding off with a home fixture against Niger Tornadoes, which is a matchday 22 tie.

NEXT ARTICLE: Finidi George vows to keep fighting for NPFL title with Enyimba

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West Ham United is poised for a managerial change at the end of the season, with Julen Lopetegui reportedly reaching an agreement in principle to succeed David Moyes.

Lopetegui, 57, who has been without a club since his departure from Wolves just before the season’s commencement, has remained in England in anticipation of landing another Premier League role.

The Spanish tactician, renowned for his stints with Porto, the Spanish national team, Real Madrid, and Sevilla, is on the brink of assuming the helm at the London Stadium following Moyes’ anticipated departure.

West Ham currently occupies the ninth spot in the league standings, with their recent 5-0 defeat against Chelsea intensifying speculation about Moyes’ future.

Moyes, 61, whose contract expires this summer, has encountered mounting scrutiny as his team managed just one victory in their last nine league fixtures.

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Expressing remorse for the heavy defeat at Stamford Bridge, Moyes empathized with the West Ham faithful, acknowledging their unwavering support amid challenging times.

In a club statement on Monday, Moyes said: “I have enjoyed four-and-a-half brilliant years at West Ham, and the club is in a stronger position than when I returned back in 2019. When I joined West Ham for a second time, the club was one place above the relegation zone, and it has been a terrific journey to have achieved three consecutive seasons in Europe.

David Moyes has endured a dissapointing season with the Hammers.

“After leading the club to safety, we guided the team to finishes of sixth and seventh in the Premier League, and I was delighted when we won the Europa Conference League title last June – the club’s first major trophy in 43 years. I would like to thank all the players for their support, and all the success they have achieved, over the last four-and-a-half years.”

West Ham joint-chairman David Sullivan offered “sincere thanks and gratitude” to Moyes.

Steidten has been involved in the search for a new manager. West Ham have held talks with Sporting’s Rúben Amorim and the former Bayern Munich manager, Hansi Flick. Amorim, whose contract contains a €15m buyout clause, has said that he is staying at Sporting.

NEXT ARTICLE: NPFL announces short break for Rivers United, adjusts schedule for Federation Cup

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The Nigeria, Ghana, and Liberia 4x100m teams stole the spotlight on the World Relays final day as they secured their tickets to the Paris Olympic Games, sparking wild celebrations.

The Nigerian women’s 4x100m quartet, composed of Tianna Eyakpobeyan, Favour Ofili, Olayinka Olajide, and Tima Godbless, set the tone by winning their Olympic Round 2 heat with a Season’s Best (SB) time of 42.71s, narrowly edging out Switzerland.

Following suit, the men’s teams from Ghana and Nigeria reignited their rivalry in an intense showdown. Joseph Paul Amoah anchored Ghana to victory, alongside teammates Ibrahim Fuseni, Isaac Botsio, and Benjamin Azamati, clocking an SB of 38.29s. Not to be outdone, Nigeria’s quartet of Udodi Onwuzurike, Consider Ekanem, Alaba Akintola, and Karlington Anunangba secured the final qualifying spot with a time of 38.57s.

READ MORE: Victor Boniface scores, Nathan Tella stars as Bayer Leverkusen thrash Eintracht Frankfurt

In a remarkable display of determination, Joseph Fahnbulleh led Liberia’s 4x100m squad to their country’s first-ever Olympic qualification in the event. Fahnbulleh’s anchor leg propelled his team, consisting of Akeem Sirleaf, Emmanuel Matadi, and Jabex Reeves, from fifth position to a National Record (NR) time of 38.65s.

Following their races, the teams came together in the mixed zone for exuberant celebrations, showcasing the spirit of unity and camaraderie among African nations. Their jubilant mood resonated not only with fans and journalists at the stadium but also drew reactions from track legends and enthusiasts, highlighting the significance of such moments in the sport.

As African countries dominated the final day of the World Relays, securing numerous Paris Olympic qualifications, the event underscored the region’s growing prominence in international athletics.

NEXT ARTICLE: NBA Playoffs: Dallas Mavericks secure Western conference semi-final spot, Orlando Magic force game 7

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Get ready for a thrilling clash as Brazilian powerhouse Esporte Clube Vitoria goes head-to-head with top Nigerian clubs and three other African giants in the upcoming Coal City International Cup!

Set to kick off on August 1, 2024, in Enugu, Nigeria, this tournament promises action-packed matches and intense competition. In its inaugural edition, eight elite teams will battle it out for glory and a substantial prize pool.

Esporte Clube Vitoria, representing Brazil, has secured an exclusive invitation to join esteemed African clubs: Gor Mahia from Kenya, FC Kallon from Sierra Leone, and Cotton FC from Benin Republic.

Nigeria, the host nation, will be strongly represented by four contenders: Enugu Rangers, Enyimba FC, Kano Pillars, and Remo Stars Sports Club.

Organized by the Enugu State government, the tournament aims to deliver thrilling football action while boosting the region’s entertainment and economic sectors.

READ MORE: Katsina United end Rangers Int’l 10-match unbeaten run

Matches will take place over nine exciting days at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium. Each participating team is guaranteed a generous appearance fee of N5 million per match, ensuring a minimum payday of N15 million for every club after playing at least three matches.

There’s hope that the success of this Coal City International Cup tournament could lead to hosting international matches at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, showcasing Enugu’s newly equipped stadium.

With a grand prize of N50 million for the champions and N10 million for the runner-up, the competition’s stakes are high.

Esporte Clube Vitoria, founded in 1899 in Salvador, Bahia, boasts a rich history. After clinching the Serie B championship in 2023, they now compete in the prestigious Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. The Brazilian giants will face tough competition from reigning Nigerian champions Enyimba and four-time NPFL kings Kano Pillars, promising an epic clash of football titans.

NEXT ARTICLE: Finidi George vows to keep fighting for NPFL title with Enyimba

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Bayer Leverkusen demonstrated their attacking prowess in a commanding 5-1 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt, with Nigeria’s Victor Boniface making a significant contribution by scoring a late penalty.

The match saw Leverkusen maintain their incredible unbeaten streak, equaling Benfica’s European record of 48 games without defeat.

Boniface, who came off the bench, added to Leverkusen’s goal tally with his 12th Bundesliga goal of the season. His spot-kick sealed the convincing win, capping off a commanding display by Leverkusen, who had five different scorers in the match.

Another Nigerian star, Nathan Tella played a pivotal role in the victory by winning the penalty converted by Exequiel Palacios. Leverkusen’s relentless attack, led by Granit Xhaka, Patrik Schick, Jeremie Frimpong, and Palacios, overwhelmed Frankfurt throughout the match.

Despite Frankfurt managing to pull one goal back through Hugo Ekitike, Leverkusen’s dominance remained unchallenged as they continued their pursuit of major silverware on multiple fronts.

Boniface’s scoring prowess, particularly as a substitute, highlights Leverkusen’s depth and strength in attack. With talents like Tella providing quality support, Leverkusen’s offensive firepower remains formidable.

Under the guidance of manager Xabi Alonso, Leverkusen’s exceptional form shows no signs of waning, emphasizing their aspirations for a historic campaign. As they aim for continued success, Leverkusen’s record-equalling unbeaten streak underlines the remarkable standards they have achieved on the field.

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As the 2024 WAFU B U-17 tournament approaches, Manu Garba, the head coach of Nigeria’s U-17 national football team, the Golden Eaglets, has responded to concerns regarding Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) tests in his camp.

Garba has dismissed worries surrounding the MRI tests, clarifying the situation as the team gears up for the upcoming tournament in Ghana.

Earlier reports had highlighted challenges faced by Garba in finalizing his squad for the tournament, with MRI tests playing a crucial role in the selection process. Initially, a list of 51 invited players was trimmed due to issues arising from the MRI tests.

Emphasising the significance of players meeting the criteria for genuine U-17 status, Garba stressed the importance of official documents and MRI tests conducted by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

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He explained that players with authentic U-17 status, supported by verified documents and satisfactory MRI test results, remain in the camp despite initial setbacks.

Addressing the situation, Garba clarified, “The genuine U-17 players, according to their official documents made available to the NFF and the MRI tests conducted by the football body, are still in the camp preparing for the WAFU B U-17 tournament.”

He further explained that some players had to leave the camp after MRI tests conducted by their academies revealed discrepancies.

Additionally, Garba highlighted the NFF’s strict requirements for MRI test results, emphasizing grades between Grade 1 to 4 as acceptable. Players with Grade 5 results were asked to leave the camp. He also noted that players providing misleading MRI results upon entering the camp were detected and sent home.

Despite these challenges, Garba expressed confidence in the team’s readiness for the tournament, highlighting that most players received favorable MRI grades at the NFF-approved medical center. He affirmed the team’s determination to have a successful outing at the WAFU B U-17 tournament in Accra, Ghana.

The Golden Eaglets, boasting a rich history as five-time world champions and current WAFU B U-17 titleholders, are set to defend their title against Burkina Faso on May 16th. Ahead of the tournament, the team has participated in nine friendly matches, securing six wins, two draws, and suffering one defeat.

NEXT ARTICLE: Enugu set to welcome four foreign clubs for Coal City International Cup

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NBA playoffs day 13 served intense action as the Dallas Mavericks secured their spot in the Western Conference semifinals, while the Orlando Magic forced a Game 7 in the Eastern Conference.

Luka Dončić and Kyrie Irving, were key figures for the Dallas Mavericks in their victory over the Los Angeles Clippers with a 114–101 final score.

Luka Dončić displayed his all-around skills, contributing 28 points, 13 assists, and seven rebounds, while Irving weighed in with 28 of his 30 points in the second half.

This win marks the Mavericks’ first triumph over the Clippers in three attempts over the past five seasons, propelling them to face top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the West semifinals.

On the flip side, the Los Angeles Clippers faced early elimination from the playoffs for the second consecutive year.

Despite efforts from Paul George and James Harden, who contributed 18 points with 11 rebounds and 16 points with 13 assists respectively, the Clippers couldn’t overcome the Mavericks’ dominance.

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Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference showdown, the Orlando Magic delivered a stunning performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, clinching a 103-96 victory to force a decisive Game 7.

Paolo Banchero led the charge with 27 points, including ten crucial points in the fourth quarter. Donovan Mitchell was also instrumental, scoring an impressive fifty points for the Cavaliers.

Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs added firepower to the Magic’s offense, scoring 26 and 22 points respectively, with Suggs sinking six three-pointers.

Banchero’s leadership helped Orlando Magic to their biggest victory in years, as they aim for their first series win in fourteen years.

In a nail-biting fourth quarter, Mitchell single-handedly carried the Cavaliers with 18 points, including two critical 3-pointers. With both teams giving their all, Game 7 promises to be an electrifying battle to determine who advances to the next round of the NBA playoffs.

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