Tag: General Sports

After sitting out of the Super Eagles team that drew Equatorial Guinea in the first AFCON group game due to an ankle injury, Kelechi Iheancho is facing the race to be fit for the Super Eagles’ next game with the host country.

The Leicester City man rejoined the Super Eagles training camp in preparation for their upcoming match against Ivory Coast yesterday and completed a training session suggesting he’s 100% fit.

This news comes as a significant boost to the Nigerian national team, who are eager to make their mark in the tournament having lost some of the top players to injury.

The Likes of Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Boniface, and Sadiq Umar all miss out on the 2023 AFCON due to injuries.

The Super Eagles will be aiming for a strong performance when they play the host country in their next game, and having key players like Iheanacho in optimal condition enhances their chances of securing all three points.

Iheanacho’s presence is expected to add both depth and experience to the Nigerian squad. Known for his goal-scoring abilities, his participation in the training sessions and the upcoming matches is anticipated to provide a significant boost to the team.

Victor Osimhen is currently the only established and fit striker in the Super Eagles squad that is at the Afcon.

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After Ghana’s surprising 2-1 defeat to Cape Verde in their Africa Cup of Nations opener, reports suggest that a Ghanaian fan has been allegedly arrested for attacking the national team’s manager, Chris Hughton, at the team’s hotel.

The defeat, sealed by Garry Rodrigues’ goal in the second minute of injury time, led to frustration among Ghanaian fans. Videos circulating online show Ghanaian supporters expressing their discontent inside the Stade Félix Houphouët Boigny in Abidjan after the 1-2 loss.

Respected Journalist Saddick Adams reported on social media that a Ghanaian supporter had attacked Chris Hughton at the team’s hotel, but the coach was saved by Ghanaian diplomats.

Adams wrote , ‘One member of the Ghanaian supporters in Abidjan has been arrested for an attack on coach Chris Hughton at the team’s hotel. It took the intervention of some Ghanaian diplomats who were around to save the coach. The unidentified man has been handed to the Ivorian Police.’

Contrary reports suggest that there was no arrest, with the fan allegedly directing foul language towards Hughton. Journalist Muftawu Nabila Abdulai mentioned, ‘[I’m] told supporter was angry and used foul words on Chris Hughton and security took him away, but he’s not been arrested. In fact, there was no contact with the coach.’

Chris Hughton, who took over as Ghana’s manager in March 2023, expressed disappointment after the match, stating, ‘We are incredibly hugely disappointed with the result. We came into the game with a game plan to start on the front foot. We are hugely, hugely disappointed with our result. And I know and this group of players also know how the Ghanaian people see this game, see this tournament, and our expectations going into this one.’

The incident adds a layer of controversy to Ghana’s campaign in the Africa Cup of Nations, with fans expressing their discontent in a manner that raises concerns about the safety of players and staff.

The Black Stars of Ghana are hoping to avoid a group stage exit, after leaving the 2021 edition at the first hurdle.

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Following their’ opening game 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea in the Africa Cup of Nations, Turkey based versatile right-back, Bright Osayi-Samuel, has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles.

A wasteful performance in front of goal and Equatorial Guinea’s resolute defense, ensured Nigeria settled for just one point, that notwithstanding, Osayi-Samuel remains optimistic about the team’s capabilities.

The Super Eagles were unable to find the clinical edge needed to secure a victory in their opening group game on Sunday, January 14.

Equatorial Guinea’s goalkeeper, Jesus Owono, stood firm and earned the Man of the Match award for his outstanding performance vs the Eagles.

Osayi-Samuel entered the game in the 83rd minute, replacing Ola Aina, but his contribution in the final minutes couldn’t alter the outcome.

In his post-match press conference, the 26-year-old Turkey based footballer acknowledged the disappointment of not securing a win but stressed the need for the team to remain positive. He pointed out that as a prominent footballing nation, there is an expectation to win every game, but the team should not be disheartened.

“Honestly, of course, we wanted to win. It’s a bit disappointing because a big nation like us, every game we are expected to win,” Osayi-Samuel expressed, drawing parallels with Egypt’s journey in the last AFCON, where they lost their first game but reached the final.

Looking ahead to the upcoming game against Ivory Coast on Thursday, Osayi-Samuel emphasized his belief in the team’s potential for a strong reaction. He highlighted the squad’s confidence and resilience, especially in matches against formidable opponents, expressing his commitment to the Super Eagles despite ongoing transfer speculations linking him with a return to England.

“We have a game in the next four days, and I believe in everyone in this team. I think the next game will be a reaction. I believe that with the squad that we have, the game against Ivory Coast, we will do our best. When we play against those big teams, that’s when we do better. We know what it takes, and everyone is confident,” he added.

Osayi-Samuel’s focus is firmly on Nigeria’s next challenge, showcasing his dedication to the Super Eagles and his belief in the team’s ability to deliver an improved performance in the ongoing AFCON tournament.

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Super Eagles forward Moses Simon has sent a wake-up call to his teammates following the disappointing 1-1 draw against Equatorial Guinea in their first game of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Nigerian national team were hoping for a positive start to life in Cote d’Ivoire but were left to share the point after a performance that left many Nigerians fuming.

Victor Osimhen responded to Equatorial Guinea going in front in the 36th minute and scored the equaliser two minutes later to calm the nerves that crept in with the goal. The three times African champions could not build on not letting their opponent build any momentum.

The team is left with the task of not losing their next fixture against host Cote d’Ivoire to keep hopes of qualification alive.

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NIGERIA 1-1 EQUATORIAL GUINEA

Jose Peseiro and his lack of technical know-how cost the Super Eagles to drop points in their AFCON opener. Not a terrible result but it puts them under pressure against Cote d'Ivoire.#NGAEQG #AFCON2023 #CAN2023 pic.twitter.com/215yk0c8bW

— Nsidibe Akpan (@nsidibeakpan23) January 14, 2024

Speaking exclusively to The Athletic NG after the game, Nantes forward, Moses Simon said the players are disappointed after failing to cease the opportunity to grab maximum points.

“Yes, we are disappointed,” he said. “We had a lot of chances but we did not utilise it and ofcourse we are disappointed.

“We need to think ahead for the next game, work hard, any opportunity we get, we use it and get it done.”

Nigeria will play their second group game on Thursday against Cote d’Ivoire, Simon says the team has to wake up to get something from the game.

“When you have this kind of opportunity and you don’t win, it’s not only the host country but the next game you have to wake up. I watched the game yesterday (Côte d’Ivoire vs Guinea Bissau), they (Côte d’Ivoire are good, we are also good, we just need to see how it ends. We just need to score.”

He believes the country can still qualify to the next round, “Yes, actually, I am optimistic.”

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Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea played out a pulsating 1-1 draw in their opening group A game of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) at the Alassana Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan on Sunday, January 14, 2024.

Nigeria took control early in the match, creating several goal-scoring opportunities within the first ten minutes.

Alex Iwobi and Victor Osimhen tested Equatorial Guinea’s goalkeeper, Jesus Owono, but the Super Eagles were unable to convert their chances. Zaidu Sanusi, too, missed a golden opportunity, failing to capitalize on a cross from Alhassan Yusuf.

Equatorial Guinea, however, found their rhythm as the game progressed. In the 36th minute, Ivan Salvador seized on a defensive lapse to strike a well-placed shot past a stranded Nigerian goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabili, giving Equatorial Guinea a 1-0 lead.

Undeterred, Nigeria swiftly responded just before half-time. Ademola Lookman delivered a precise cross, and CAF Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, headed home the equalizer, leveling the score at 1-1.

The second half saw the Super Eagles return with renewed determination, creating numerous scoring opportunities. Zaidu Sanusi, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Osimhen all had chances, but Equatorial Guinea’s goalkeeper, Owono, displayed exceptional skill in denying Nigeria’s attempts.

As the clock ticked towards the ninety minute mark, Victor Osimhen missed a glaring opportunity, firing wide when one-on-one with the goalkeeper.

The match finished 1-1 with both teams earning a hard-fought point, contributing to Equatorial Guinea’s impressive 12-game unbeaten streak.

Equatorial Guinea’s goalkeeper, Jesus Owono, was rightfully named the man of the match for his outstanding saves that played a crucial role in securing a point for his team.

With this draw, Cote d’Ivoire leads Group A following their 2-0 victory over Guinea Bissau.

Nigeria is set to continue their AFCON campaign against Cote d’Ivoire on Thursday, January 18, 2024. On the same day, Equatorial Guinea will face Guinea Bissau in what promises to be another exciting round of fixtures in Group A.

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Mamelodi Sundowns head coach Rulani Mokwena has identified Nigeria’s Super Eagles as one of the top contenders for the AFCON 2023 tournament.

As the Eagles gear up for their opening Group A match against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday, January 14, 2024, Mokwena believes the team’s abundance of top-class players makes them perennial favorites in the tournament.

While speaking about the AFCON prospects, Mokwena highlighted Nigeria’s strong squad and the individual brilliance of key players, emphasizing that the team is never to be underestimated in major competitions. In their previous three encounters, Nigeria emerged victorious against Equatorial Guinea, setting the stage for an intriguing AFCON clash between the two nations.

Mokwena also identified other strong contenders in the tournament, mentioning Morocco, Egypt, Ghana, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. He praised Morocco for their impressive performance in the last World Cup and emphasized the threat posed by experienced teams like Egypt.

The Sundowns coach shared his insights on players expected to make a significant impact during AFCON 2023. Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s prolific striker, was highlighted for his goal-scoring prowess and confidence leading the attacking line. Additionally, Mokwena acknowledged the exceptional talents of Achraf Hakimi and Mohammed Kudus, expecting them to be game-changers in the tournament.

In the opening game of AFCON 2023, hosts Côte d’Ivoire secured a 2-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau, with goals from Seko Fofana and Jean-Philippe Krasso.

HIS WORDS

“I also tip Ghana and Senegal to be strong contenders and I think Ivory Coast will also make it to the last 8,” the Downs coach said.

He also tipped the players who are expected to shine, saying: “Victor Osimhen is one player who is in great form and we have seen his abilities in front of goal.

“He leads the line confidently and scores lots of great goals and in tournaments like this, you need goals.

“I also think Achraf Hakimi is an exceptional player who can change the course of games in several ways. Mohammed Kudus is another game changer who I expect to impress at the tournament.”

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In a thrilling kickoff to the much-anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament, the Cote d’Ivoire national football team, known as the Elephants, showcased their prowess with a commanding 2-0 win against Guinea-Bissau at the Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium in Abidjan.

The 2023 AFCON was finally declared open on Saturday, January 13, 2024, with FIFA President amongst the guests in Abidjan.

After the opening formalities, it was the Elephants who wasted no time in annoucning their intention in the opening game, taking just four minutes to open the scoring in the Group A clash.

Al Nassr midfielder Seko Fofana, demonstrated skill and precision as he unleashed a powerful strike into the top left corner of the net.

The early goal set the tone for Ivory Coast’s dominant performance, much to the delight of the 36,000-plus fans in attendance.

Throughout the match, the hosts maintained control, with Fofana coming close to extending the lead on multiple occasions. Guinea-Bissau struggled to contain Ivory Coast’s attacking prowess, and their defensive efforts were tested by the relentless offensive plays.

In the 58th minute, Ivory Coast secured their second goal, with Jean-Phillipe Krasso displaying impeccable technique. The Red Star Belgrade striker executed a skillful flick in the box before delivering an acrobatic finish that left the goalkeeper with no chance.

Despite efforts from Guinea-Bissau, including a notable attempt from substitute Franculino Dju, Ivory Coast’s defense remained resolute, securing a clean sheet for the hosts.

The victory marks a strong start for Ivory Coast in the AFCON 2023 campaign, setting the stage for their upcoming clash against Nigeria on Thursday in the second round of group stage matches.

Ivorien fans are hopeful that their team’s stellar performance in the opener is a foreshadowing of a successful campaign on home soil as they aim for glory in the prestigious continental tournament.

The last time Cote d’Ivoire hosted the AFCON [1984], it ended in a sad group stage exit, a memory they will look to erase if they build on this opening day win.

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Super Eagles head coach, Jose Peseiro, expressed confidence in the strength of his squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite the absence of key players due to injuries.

Peseiro acknowledged the unfortunate unavailability of Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Boniface, and Umar Sadiq but emphasized the quality of replacements drafted into the team.

During a press conference in Abidjan on Saturday, January 13, 2024 Peseiro said, “It’s unfortunate that those players can’t be here with us; they all want to play but they can’t because of injury.

” The good thing is that we have the players to replace them.”

He pointed out that the replacements, including Alhassan Yusuf, Terem Moffi, and Paul Onuachu, have profiles similar to the injured players, ensuring continuity in the team’s composition.

He added “It’s not much of a problem for us because we have picked players with the same profile.

“Onuachu is similar to Sadiq, Moffi and Boniface are not different, same thing with Ndidi and Alhassan.

“These players have different characters, but in terms of profiles they are not different,” Peseiro said.

Peseiro assured that the squad still possesses the necessary depth and quality to compete with any team in Cote d’Ivoire, where the AFCON tournament is taking place.

Despite the setbacks, the coach remains optimistic about the team’s prospects as they prepare for their opening match against Equatorial Guinea at the Alassanne Quattara Stadium on Sunday, January 14, 2024 by 3pm.

IHEANACHO, ONUACHU ARRIVE

Ahead of Sunday’s game, Leicester City forward, Kelechi Iheanacho and Trabzonspor man Paul Onuachu have arrived in Cote d’Ivoire to join their Super Eagles teammates.

Peseiro did not give update if any of them will make the matchday squad vs Equatorial Guinea.

OGC Nice striker Terem Moffi will hit camp on Sunday, only then will Nigeria have a complete 25-man squad for the 34th Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

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According to head coach Jose Peseiro, Iheanacho touched down in Abidjan from the United Kingdom at around 4 am local time on Saturday.

The coach also revealed in a press conference that he had a conversation with the medical team, and they reassured him that Iheanacho was completely healed from the injury.

“Unfortunately we have players who are out but Kelechi Iheanacho arrived this morning at 4:00. Moffi will arrive tomorrow and Onuachu will arrive tomorrow morning.

“We spoke with Leicester City and it was agreed he remains with them to complete his treatment.

“I spoke with the medical team and they told me he has totally recovered from the injury”.

Iheanacho is expected to take part in the Super Eagles final training session on Saturday before their opening game against Equatorial Guinea at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations billed for the Alassanne Ouattara Stadium, Ebimpe, Abidjan on Sunday.

The 27-year-old’s arrival was delayed due to a muscle injury he sustained while he was in action for Sky Bet Championship club, Leicester City.

It has not been an easy time for Peseiro who will also have to do without Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Boniface, and Sadiq Umar due to injuries. Taiwo Awoniyi is another player who is not available for the West African nation.

OGC Nice striker Terem Moffi will join the Super Eagles squad on Sunday, while Paul Onuachu will hit Abidjan on Monday morning.

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Cameroon’s Captain Vincent Aboubakar is uncertain for AFCON2023 due to an injury he sustained yesterday in a training session in Cote D’Ivoire and has been ruled out of the tournament.

The veteran striker and captain, whose goals the Indomitable Lions rode on at the last AFCON tournament on home soil, reportedly suffered a leg injury that prevented the 31-year-old from training.

FECAFOOT confirmed that the striker had to shorten his training session on Friday evening due to a serious injury, and the severity of the diagnosis could see Aboubakar miss the entire tournament.

The 31-year-old AFCON 2021 top-scorer will not be part of the Cameroon squad which will play a tough match in Group C against the defending Champions Senegal on Friday, 19 January.

Senegal has been a consistent team, They won the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations by beating Egypt in the final in Cameroon.

The Indomitable Lion of Cameroon would miss the services of their talisman, whom they have been relying on to bang in the goals during the tournament at Ivory Coast.

It remains to be seen who would be drafted in to replace the former Al-Nassr striker.

Since making his international debut for Cameroon in May 2010, Abubakar has amassed 100 caps. He played for them in the Africa Cup of Nations in 2015, 2017, and 2021 and the FIFA World Cup in 2010, 2014, and 2022.

He is Cameroon’s third-highest goalscorer with 37 goals, eight shy of record-holder Samuel Eto’o.

Cameroon has been drawn into a tough group C alongside defending champions Senegal, Guinea, and Gambia.

The Indomitable Lions will kick off their campaign by facing Guinea on Monday before facing Senegal on 19 January and finally facing Gambia four days later.

The former Al-Nassr attacker led Cameroon to their fifth AFCON title in 2017.

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