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Tag: General Sports

  • Top 10 Nigerian football Moments of 2024

    The year 2024 was a remarkable chapter in Nigerian football history, filled with extraordinary achievements, unforgettable performances, and moments that captured the hearts of fans worldwide.

    From historic wins to individual brilliance, Nigerian footballers and teams proved their mettle on the grandest stages. Here are the top 10 highlights:

    10. Flying Eagles Defend WAFU B Title
    In October, Nigeria’s U-20 team, the Flying Eagles, retained their WAFU B Championship title with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Ghana in Lome, Togo. Despite a rocky group stage start, the team showcased resilience and earned a spot in the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations.

    9. Edo Queens Conquer Nigeria and WAFU B
    Edo Queens had an unforgettable year, claiming their maiden Nigerian Women’s Football League (NWFL) title and the WAFU B CAF Women’s Champions League qualifiers. Although they finished fourth in the continental tournament, their domestic and regional successes marked a historic milestone.

    READ MORE:Chukwueze hits major setback before Juventus clash

    8. Rangers International Win NPFL Title
    Rangers International of Enugu clinched their eighth NPFL title in June, ending an eight-year drought. With 70 points, the Flying Antelopes cemented their reputation as one of Nigeria’s most decorated clubs and secured a spot in the CAF Champions League.

    7. El-Kanemi Warriors End 32-Year FA Cup Drought
    The Maiduguri-based El-Kanemi Warriors lifted the Nigerian FA Cup for the first time since 1992, defeating Abia Warriors 2-0 in the final. Ibrahim Salihu’s heroics, including two goals, earned them a place in the CAF Confederation Cup and a ₦50 million cash prize.

    6. Victor Boniface Shines in Germany
    Victor Boniface’s debut season with Bayer Leverkusen was nothing short of spectacular. He helped the club secure both the Bundesliga and German Cup, becoming the first Nigerian to achieve the feat. Boniface’s impressive 14 goals and multiple accolades solidified his status as a rising star in European football.

    5. Super Falcons Return to the Olympics
    The Super Falcons made a historic comeback to the Olympics after a 16-year absence, edging South Africa in the qualifiers. Although their campaign in Paris ended in the group stage, their qualification reaffirmed their dominance in African women’s football.

    4. Troost-Ekong Named AFCON Player of the Tournament
    William Troost-Ekong delivered stellar performances at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), earning the Player of the Tournament award despite Nigeria’s runner-up finish. His leadership and contributions, including three crucial goals, highlighted his influence on and off the pitch.

    3. Lookman’s Europa League Hat-Trick
    Ademola Lookman made history by scoring a hat-trick in Atalanta’s Europa League final win against Bayer Leverkusen. The Nigerian forward’s brilliance secured Atalanta’s second-ever major trophy and ended Leverkusen’s remarkable unbeaten streak.

    2. Super Eagles Reach AFCON Final
    The Super Eagles defied expectations to reach the AFCON final, overcoming injuries and formidable opponents. Despite losing 2-1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire, their spirited performances under coach José Peseiro earned widespread admiration.

    1. Ademola Lookman Named Africa’s Best
    The crowning moment of 2024 was Ademola Lookman’s CAF African Footballer of the Year win. His exceptional season with Atalanta, including 17 goals, 10 assists, and a Europa League triumph, made him a standout star. Lookman’s honor marked back-to-back Nigerian wins for the award, following Victor Osimhen’s 2023 triumph.



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  • Iwobi reveals Silva’s secret to Fulham’s success

    Super Eagles and Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has shed light on the key factors behind Fulham’s impressive form under head coach Marco Silva.

    The Cottagers ended the 2023/2024 Premier League season in 13th place, managing 13 wins in 38 games. However, the current campaign has seen a significant turnaround, with Fulham climbing into the top half of the table and securing nine wins in the first half of the 2024/2025 season.

    Iwobi has been instrumental in Fulham’s resurgence, delivering his most productive season yet with five goals and three assists. Alongside USMNT defender Antonee Robinson, he leads the team in goal contributions this season, with eight.

    When asked about the driving force behind the team’s improvement, Iwobi highlighted the influence of Marco Silva. According to Iwobi, Silva’s commitment to excellence extends beyond tactics, creating a culture of respect and unity across the club.

    “He gives everyone that love and pays attention to detail,” Iwobi told the Daily Mail. “He treats everyone the same – from the players to the people in the canteen – and he always demands the best.”

    Silva’s determination to sign Iwobi from Everton two summers ago has paid off, with the Nigerian thriving under his management and playing a vital role in Fulham’s progress.

    Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca praised Fulham’s setup under Silva after their Boxing Day defeat to the Cottagers, emphasizing their strong transitions and the quality of players like Iwobi and Raúl Jiménez.

    READ MORE:Top 10 Nigerian football Moments of 2024

    Fulham will kick off the second half of their Premier League campaign on January 5, hosting Ipswich Town at Craven Cottage.

    Ipswich, led by Kieran McKenna, recently shocked Chelsea with a 2-0 win at Portman Road, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter.



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  • Chukwueze hits major setback before Juventus clash

    Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze will be absent for AC Milan’s upcoming Italian Super Cup semi-final against Juventus in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following an injury sustained during the weekend’s 1-1 draw with AS Roma.

    Chukwueze, who was on the field for 62 minutes, suffered a hamstring issue and limped off during the match. Initial assessments suggest the injury could sideline him for weeks, dealing a blow to Milan’s plans under newly appointed head coach Sergio Conceição.

    The Nigerian’s struggles at Milan since his July 2023 move from Villarreal have been well-documented. In 21 appearances this season, Chukwueze has scored just three goals and provided one assist, mostly as a substitute.

    READ MORE:Osimhen rejects transfer offers, commits to Galatasaray

    His injury casts further doubt on potential transfer rumors linking him to a swap deal involving Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior during the January window.

    As Milan prepares for the Super Cup clash on January 3 at Al Awal Park, they will rely on players like Rafael Leão and Christian Pulisic, though their fitness remains under evaluation.

    Chukwueze will remain in Milan for recovery, while Milan News reports his long-term future at the club remains uncertain.



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  • El-Kanemi warriors coach sets top five target for the season

    As the first half of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) 2024/2025 season concludes, El-Kanemi Warriors’ head coach, Aliyu Zubairu, has outlined the team’s ambitions for the remainder of the campaign.

    The Borno-based club, newly promoted from the Nigeria National League (NNL), had a rocky start to the season, with a series of draws hindering their early momentum. However, they have since found stability, finishing the first stanza in fifth place with 29 points from 19 matches.

    “So far, the team has performed averagely because the team just got promoted from the NNL, but I will say the team has not performed badly even though there is still a big vacuum for improvement,” Zubairu told the club’s media.

    Looking ahead, the coach emphasized a realistic and attainable goal: “The ultimate target at the end of the season is to finish among the first five. I think that target is more realistic and easily achievable without putting too much pressure on the players and the team as a whole.”

    Meanwhile Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has announced a three-week mid-season break following the conclusion of the first round of matches.

    The break, which runs from January 6 to January 25, 2025, coincides with the opening of the NPFL transfer window, scheduled from January 6 to February 5, 2025.

    READ MORE:NPFL declares mid-season break, opens transfer window

    El-Kanemi Warriors will aim to build on their current position and push for a strong finish in their return season to the topflight.



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  • NPFL 2025: Round 19 shakes up the league

    The 2024/2025 Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) season continues to deliver electrifying action, with Round 19 proving to be a rollercoaster of emotions.

    From last-gasp penalties to fierce rivalries, fans were treated to a weekend of unforgettable moments.

    Here’s the lowdown on NPFL round 19

    Enugu Rangers Exact Sweet Revenge

    In a tightly contested battle in Minna, Enugu Rangers avenged their earlier loss to Shooting Stars with a gritty 1-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes. Bashiru Usman’s thunderous strike in the 33rd minute was enough to secure three crucial points for the Flying Antelopes, propelling them to 31 points. Tornadoes, meanwhile, remain stuck at 24 points, struggling to find consistency.

    Southwest Derbies Deliver Heart-Stopping Moments

    Ikorodu City’s Late Heroics: Ikorodu City pulled off a nail-biting 2-1 win over Sunshine Stars, thanks to a dramatic penalty deep into stoppage time. The victory boosts the Lagos-based side to 28 points, leaving Sunshine Stars trailing with 22.

    Shooting Stars Edge Kwara United: In another nail-biter, Shooting Stars snatched a 1-0 win against Kwara United with Adams Mustapha’s late winner in extra time. With this victory, Shooting Stars climb to 33 points, while Kwara United (23 points) still have a game in hand to turn their fortunes around.

    Kano Pillars Stumble in Maiduguri

    El Kanemi Warriors stunned Kano Pillars with a hard-fought 1-0 victory, courtesy of Al-Amin Umar’s clinical 39th-minute goal. The result pushes El Kanemi to 29 points, while Kano Pillars, now with 25 points, will look to bounce back with a game in hand.

    Katsina United Seize the Moment

    Katsina United eked out a 1-0 home win over Nasarawa United, with Azeez Falolu’s 75th-minute goal making all the difference. Katsina’s victory lifts them to 23 points, while Nasarawa United languish at the bottom with just 19 points from 18 games.

    Remo Stars Reign Supreme

    League leaders Remo Stars continued their dominance with a thrilling 2-1 victory over Akwa United. Shuaibu Ibrahim’s early penalty and Raymond Tochukwu’s 80th-minute strike sealed the deal, keeping Remo Stars atop the table with 36 points. Akwa United, however, remain firmly rooted to the bottom with 19 points.

    READ MORE:Super Eagles captain: Ghana win will boost players’ careers

    Lobi Stars and Heartland Left Frustrated

    In a goalless stalemate, Lobi Stars and Heartland FC both failed to capitalize on opportunities, leaving fans yearning for more. Lobi Stars sit perilously close to the relegation zone with 20 points, while Heartland remain marginally ahead with 22 points.

    Round 19 Results at a Glance

    • El Kanemi Warriors 1-0 Kano Pillars
    • Niger Tornadoes 0-1 Enugu Rangers
    • Ikorodu City 2-1 Sunshine Stars
    • Katsina United 1-0 Nasarawa United
    • Lobi Stars 0-0 Heartland
    • Remo Stars 2-1 Akwa United
    • Shooting Stars 1-0 Kwara United

    What’s Next?

    The action isn’t over yet! Today, Rivers United takes on Plateau United as they aim to close the gap on Remo Stars. Tomorrow, Enyimba will lock horns with Bendel Insurance in another must-watch encounter.

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  • Zaidu Sanusi former coach Conceição set for AC Milan role

    Zaidu Sanusi former mentor at FC Porto, Sérgio Conceição, is reportedly on the brink of being appointed as the new manager of Serie A heavyweights AC Milan.

    The Portuguese tactician, renowned for his success with Porto, is expected to bring his winning mentality to the Rossoneri in the wake of their struggles this season.

    A Season to Forget for AC Milan

    AC Milan has endured a dismal start to the 2024/25 campaign, winning only seven of their 17 Serie A matches. The team’s inconsistency has left them languishing in eighth place, far below expectations for a club of their stature.

    READ MORE:Manchester City eyes super Eagles star as Kyle Walker’s heir

    The final straw came with a frustrating 1-1 draw against AS Roma, which prompted the departure of head coach Paulo Fonseca. Speaking to reporters outside the San Siro, Fonseca confirmed his dismissal.

    “I’ve just learned that I’ve been sacked as coach. That’s life, that’s how it is. My conscience is calm because I did everything I could,” said the former Braga and Lille boss.

    Fonseca, who took over from Stefano Pioli in June 2024, struggled to revive the Rossoneri despite featuring key players like Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze.

    Conceição’s Arrival Could Change the Game

    According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Conceição has agreed in principle to a deal that will keep him at Milan until 2028. However, the agreement awaits finalization by the club and his agent, Jorge Mendes.

    Conceição is known for his disciplined approach and ability to get the best out of his players—a reputation that was cemented during his time at FC Porto, where he coached Nigerian left-back Zaidu Sanusi. Under Conceição, Sanusi thrived, becoming a vital player for Porto and achieving domestic and continental success.

    What It Means for Chukwueze and Milan’s Squad

    For AC Milan’s current roster, including Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze, Conceição’s arrival marks a turning point. Chukwueze has seen improved playing time this season, featuring in 22 matches and contributing three goals and an assist. However, the Nigerian international will face a fresh challenge to secure his place in the starting lineup under Conceição’s management.



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  • Black Galaxies coach reflects on Nigeria’s CHAN qualifier triumph

    Ghana’s Black Galaxies head coach, Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, has provided insights into Nigeria’s dominant 3-1 victory in their African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier on Saturday night.

    The Super Eagles B delivered an emphatic performance at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, to secure their place in the 2024 CHAN tournament, overcoming a goalless first-leg draw in Accra to decisively settle the tie.

    Nigerian Brilliance Stuns Ghana

    Heading into the second leg, Dramani had hoped to replicate Ghana’s 2022 World Cup qualification success over their rivals. However, Nigeria’s intensity and tactical execution left the Black Galaxies overwhelmed.

    READ MORE:Zaidu Sanusi former coach Conceição set for AC Milan role

    Sodiq Ismaila broke the deadlock in the 18th minute, setting the stage for an explosive first half. Just three minutes later, Junior Harrison Nduka capitalized on a goalmouth scramble to double Nigeria’s lead. By the 25th minute, Saviour Johnson Isaac added a third goal, leaving Ghana shell-shocked and trailing 3-0 by halftime.

    Although Amankona Stephen pulled one back for Ghana in the 74th minute, it served as little more than a consolation as the Super Eagles B celebrated a commanding victory.

    Dramani Admits Nigeria’s Superiority

    Speaking after the match, a disappointed Dramani acknowledged Nigeria’s determination and physical edge as key factors in their triumph.

    “Nigeria showed much more hunger and did a lot of running. We gave away some key moments in the game, which turned out to be disastrous for us,” Dramani remarked.

    He highlighted the psychological impact of conceding quick goals: “After the first goal, the second can drain the strength and energy of a team, especially in the way it was scored—not to mention the third. At that point, any team could lose its steam.”

    Challenges for Ghana’s Football

    The defeat adds to Ghana’s recent football woes, with the national team also failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Dramani described these setbacks as part of a “transitional phase” for Ghanaian football.

    “These are lessons learned in good faith,” he reflected. “We don’t like failure, but sometimes failure brings a moment to reflect and then bounce back in the right way.”

    A Call for CAF Reforms

    Dramani also criticized the current competition formats, urging the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to address the frequent early clashes between regional heavyweights like Nigeria and Ghana.

    “Nigeria and Ghana meeting at this stage is an issue CAF must address. It’s important for the body to critically examine this and come up with a format that ensures the best for the continent,” he argued.

    The Super Eagles B, absent from the last two CHAN tournaments, now return to the competition where they last reached the final in 2018. The 2024 edition, postponed to 2025, will be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.



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  • CAF fines Libya $50,000 and orders Two closed-door matches

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed a $50,000 fine on Libya and ordered them to play two national team matches behind closed doors following incidents of misconduct during their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Benin in Benghazi, Libya.

    This disciplinary action adds to Libya’s growing list of controversies, coming just weeks after their criticized treatment of Nigeria’s Super Eagles in October.

    CAF Statement on Libya’s Sanctions

    In an official statement, CAF outlined the reasons behind Libya’s punishment, citing violations of its Disciplinary Code:

    “The CAF Disciplinary Board charged the Libyan Football Federation with misconduct following incidents during the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 Qualifiers fixture against Benin in Benghazi on 18 November 2024.

    “The CAF Disciplinary Board found the Libyan Football Federation guilty of violating articles 82 and 151 of the CAF Disciplinary Code for the behaviour of its supporters and officials during and after the match.

    “The Libyan Football Federation was ordered to play its next two (2) official national team matches behind closed doors, and the CAF Disciplinary Board imposed a fine of USD 50,000 on the Libyan Football Federation.”

    Benin Also Faces Sanctions

    Despite being victims of alleged mistreatment in Libya, Benin did not escape CAF’s scrutiny.

    The Beninese Football Federation was fined $5,000 for non-cooperation with CAF’s disciplinary body during their qualifier against Rwanda. Additionally, Benin received a $50,000 fine—$25,000 of which was suspended—for the misconduct of their officials following the match.

    READ MORE:Black Galaxies coach reflects on Nigeria’s CHAN qualifier triumph

    Benin had lodged complaints about being attacked by Libyan coaches and police officers after their November AFCON qualifier. Despite the tensions, Benin forced a goalless draw in Tripoli, securing their qualification for AFCON 2025 at Libya’s expense.

    Guinea’s Appeal Against Tanzania Rejected

    In a separate ruling, CAF dismissed Guinea’s appeal to have Tanzania disqualified from the 2024 AFCON. Guinea had claimed Tanzanian substitute Ibrahim Ame wore an unregistered shirt number (26) during a qualifier. However, CAF deemed the evidence insufficient to warrant disqualification.

    Libya’s Troubled Relationship with CAF

    Libya’s disciplinary woes with CAF stretch back to their controversial October clash with Nigeria. The Super Eagles’ flight was diverted to Al-Abraq Airport, prompting accusations of “inhumane treatment” from CAF. Libyan officials countered with claims of poor hospitality during their trip to Nigeria.

    These repeated incidents underscore CAF’s intensified focus on curbing misconduct as the continent gears up for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, where fair play and professionalism will be paramount.



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  • Goots praises Arokodare’s transformation at Genk

    Former Genk striker Patrick Goots has praised Nigerian forward Tolu Arokodare for his significant development this season under coach Thorsten Fink.

    Arokodare, now a standout performer for Genk, has been instrumental in their push for the Belgian Pro League title, sitting one point above rivals Club Brugge.

    With 13 goals and four assists in 20 appearances, he’s directly contributed to 43% of Genk’s 40 goals this season—already surpassing his total goal contributions from last season, despite playing fewer matches.

    Reflecting on Arokodare’s progress, Goots, who enjoyed a successful stint at the club, noted how far the 6ft6in striker has come. “When I first saw him, he struggled with injuries and wasn’t fully fit,” Goots explained. “I didn’t expect Tolu to have such an explosive season, but now he’s a completely different player. He’s physically in top shape and is a key figure in linking up play, especially with Steuckers.”

    While Arokodare’s form has caught attention in Belgium, he has yet to receive a call-up to the Nigerian national team.

    READ MORE:CAF fines Libya $50,000 and orders Two closed-door matches

    However, Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has acknowledged Arokodare’s impressive performances and listed him as a potential future call-up.



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  • Dele-Bashiru credits Lazio Coach for enhancing his game

    Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has praised Lazio’s coach Marco Baroni for playing a key role in his improvement since joining the club last summer.

    Dele-Bashiru, who arrived on a season-long loan from Turkish club Hatayspor, has made a strong impact in Serie A, contributing four goals and two assists in 14 appearances so far this season.

    His recent goal in Lazio’s 1-1 draw against Atalanta highlighted his growing influence, marking his fifth start in the league this term.

    READ MORE:Goots praises Arokodare’s transformation at Genk

    In a recent interview, Dele-Bashiru discussed how Baroni has helped him focus on advancing the ball more effectively. He explained how the coaching staff has worked with him to improve his positioning and decision-making when in possession.

    “Baroni and the team help me a lot,” he shared with Lazio TV. “The main thing he emphasizes is being more positive with the ball, positioning my body better, and looking to go forward more. I’m trying to bring these ideas into my game.”

    With his continued development, Bashiru has shown his potential as a key player for Lazio, and the club could consider making his deal permanent if he maintains this upward trajectory.



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