Paradise News

Tag: General Sports

  • Ahmed Musa returns from injury to lead Pillars to victory

    Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa made a triumphant return from injury, scoring a last-minute goal to secure a 2-1 win for Kano Pillars against Tornadoes in a thrilling Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) match day 18 clash.

    Ahmed Musa, who had been sidelined with an injury, showed his value and leadership in the dying moments of the match, scoring in the 90th+ minute to give his side all three points.

    The game, played at the Sani Abacha Stadium, saw Rasheed Alasan open the scoring for Kano Pillars in the 30th minute, putting them ahead in the first half.

    READ MORE:Victor Osimhen named Best Striker in the Turkish Super League

    However, Tornadoes responded strongly in the second half, with Aliyu Mohammed equalizing for the visitors in the 60th minute. With the game looking set for a draw, Musa’s dramatic late strike ensured that Kano Pillars secured the win, much to the delight of the home fans.

    Musa’s return to action was met with excitement, as his leadership and experience were crucial in the final moments of the match. His performance not only marked a successful comeback but also reaffirmed his importance to the team as they continue their campaign in the NPFL.

    The victory moves Coach Usman Abdallah’s Sai Masu Gida to 7th position with 25 points while Tornadoes stay 8th on the log with 24 points.

    In Akure, Sunshine Stars triumphed 1-0 over El-Kanemi thanks to a late goal from Promise Awosanmi in the 85th minute.

    Meanwhile, in Benin City, Bendel Insurance also emerged victorious by a 1-0 scoreline against Lobi Stars. The only goal of the game came in the 83rd minute, with Isaac Annor netting the decisive strike.



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  • National Sports Festival 2024 postponed

    The Joint Technical Committee for the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF), Ogun 2024, has announced an adjustment to the Games’ schedule. The National sports festival will now take place from May 16 to 30, 2025, with zonal eliminations for team sports scheduled for February 23 to 28, 2025.

    The communiqué, signed by Hon. Adebukola Olopade, Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), and Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, Commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun State, emphasized the need for thorough planning to reflect the new direction of sports in the country.

    Focus on Athlete Development

    A key initiative for the 2024 NSF is the introduction of Invited Junior Athletes (IJA), who will compete as a 38th state for the first time in NSF history. This initiative aims to expose young, promising athletes to high-level competition, creating a platform for them to challenge established athletes.

    READ MORE:Hakim Ziyech regrets Galatasaray move, aims for January exit

    Hon. Olopade highlighted that the initiative is part of President Tinubu’s vision to develop Nigeria’s youth and empower the next generation of sports stars.

    “We are excited about the new date and the additional five months to refine our preparations,” said Olopade. “This will help us showcase Nigeria’s full capacity and ensure the Games are a success.”

    Ongoing Preparations

    The first joint technical meeting, held on December 19, 2024, also included a thorough inspection of proposed venues. A second meeting and inspection visit are planned to address any remaining issues ahead of the Games.



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  • Hakim Ziyech regrets Galatasaray move, aims for January exit

    Hakim Ziyech, who was welcomed with incredible fanfare when he joined Galatasaray in 2023, now says he regrets the move and plans to leave the club in January.

    Hakim Ziyech arrived from Chelsea in the summer of 2023 and was unveiled to ecstatic supporters after a 2-0 Super Lig win over Trabzonspor.

    READ MORE:rangers-international-battle-salary-delay-as-key-fixture-looms

    He even joined the ultra group in the main stand, conducting chants as his new teammates smiled from the pitch. However, just a year later, the mood has soured, and the Morocco international is eager to depart.

    In an interview with Turkish journalist Haluk Yurekli, Ziyech expressed his discontent with manager Okan Buruk and his situation at Galatasaray.

    “Galatasaray is over for me. I don’t want to play here anymore. I’m leaving in January. I regret coming here,” he said.

    Despite a solid debut season, where he scored eight goals and provided four assists in 23 appearances, Ziyech’s role has diminished this season.

    He’s made just eight appearances out of 24, with seven of those coming off the bench.

    His opportunities have been limited due to the arrivals of Victor Osimhen and Michy Batshuayi, while Dries Mertens continues to impress.

    Galatasaray, reportedly interested in signing Roma’s Paulo Dybala, could be open to letting Ziyech go to make room for the Argentine forward.

    Ziyech, who made a name for himself at Ajax and was part of Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League-winning squad, now looks set for another move, with January offering the next chapter in his career.



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  • Rangers International battle Salary delay as key fixture looms

    Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) champions, Rangers International of Enugu, are grappling with unrest in their camp as players and staff express frustration over unpaid November salaries.

    Despite assurances from the club’s management, the delay has cast a shadow over the team’s preparations as they defend their league title.

    Financial Constraints Highlighted

    Sources close to the team reveal that the Enugu State Government allocates less than ₦20 million monthly to Rangers International FC, a budget significantly leaner than those of many NPFL rivals.

    This limited funding has put the club under financial strain, despite the efforts of General Manager Barrister Amobi Ezeaku. His resourcefulness in securing sponsorships has supported the club’s programs, but the ongoing salary delays underline the challenges of sustaining operations on such a tight budget.

    Morale Impacted

    The unpaid salaries have created tension within the squad, particularly with the festive season approaching. Players are reportedly growing frustrated as financial issues persist, even though the team currently sits third in the NPFL standings after 17 weeks.

    Head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, who is currently on international duty with the Super Eagles B team, has stepped in to reassure the players. He urged them to remain focused on their performances and expressed confidence that the salary issue would soon be resolved.

    READ MORE:Ademola Lookman’s market value hits career high after winning Africa’s best player

    Management’s Response

    The management of Rangers International FC has assured the players that their salaries will be settled before Christmas Day. This pledge has provided some relief, though the squad remains wary of potential further delays.

    Reacting to the development, Rangers’ Media Officer, Norbert Okolie, spoke on “Outside the Line Show” on Prime Sports 104.9FM Enugu, confirming the delay in November salary.

    “It’s true that the players haven’t received their salary for the month of November, which is partly due to the Enugu State Government’s E-system migration and the reshuffle in the corporation’s account department,” he explained.

    Okolie also sought to dispel fears of unrest within the squad, assuring fans that the players are fully committed to executing their upcoming game against long-time rivals Shooting Stars.

    Next Match Looms

    Rangers are currently on a 10 matches unbeaten run and are set to host Shooting Stars at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium on Sunday for match day 18 of the NPFL.



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  • Ademola Lookman’s market value hits career high after winning Africa’s best player

    Ademola Lookman’s stellar performances in 2024 have culminated in his crowning as the African Footballer of the Year, and the impact of that achievement is already being felt both on and off the pitch.

    Just days after picking up the coveted award in Marrakech, Lookman’s market value has reached an all-time high, reflecting his exceptional form for Atalanta and the Nigerian national team.

    From UEFA Europa League Glory to African Football’s Pinnacle

    Lookman’s year has been a mix of personal and collective success. On the club front, his standout moment came in the UEFA Europa League final, where his sensational hat trick led Atalanta to a historic 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen.

    That match not only secured Atalanta’s first-ever international title but also handed the German side their only loss of the season, solidifying Lookman’s reputation as one of the most lethal forwards in Europe.

    READ MORE:CAF announces key dates for 2025 African Football Events

    Despite his club triumph, Lookman’s international campaign ended in disappointment when Nigeria lost to Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations final.

    However, his performances throughout the tournament and in the lead-up to the final highlighted his status as one of Africa’s finest talents.

    Record-Breaking Market Value

    The immediate impact of Lookman’s CAF best player award victory was felt in the transfer market. Just two days after his win in Marrakech, Transfermarkt confirmed that Lookman’s market value had soared from €40 million to €55 million — a remarkable rise that underscores his incredible season.

    This increase catapults the Nigerian winger into the top 10 highest-valued players in Serie A and elevates him to second place in terms of market worth among Super Eagles players, behind only Victor Osimhen, whose value stands at €75 million.

    Lookman’s €55 million valuation now places him among the top African players, tied for third in the continent with Mohamed Salah and Nicolas Jackson, and just behind Osimhen and Achraf Hakimi.

    Praise for Lookman’s Consistency and Skill

    According to Jatin Dietl, Transfermarkt’s Area Manager for Italy, Lookman’s rapid rise is no accident.

    “Lookman crowned his outstanding 2024 with the African Ballon d’Or, and rightly so,” Dietl said. “He has been in top form for months, leading Atalanta to the Serie A summit and clinching a historic international trophy with his hat trick against Leverkusen.”

    Dietl went on to highlight Lookman’s key attributes: his goal-scoring instincts, dribbling ability, physical power, and mental resilience in key moments. “He is a player who thrives in important games and has a rare ability to deliver when it matters most,” Dietl added.

    Transfer Rumors and Atalanta’s Price Tag

    The rise in Lookman’s market value has already attracted attention from some of Europe’s top clubs, with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) reportedly showing interest.

    However, Atalanta is under no pressure to sell their star asset, and according to reports, the Serie A club has set a €70 million asking price for Lookman — well above his current market value.

    Given his pivotal role in Atalanta’s success and the club’s position at the top of Serie A, the Italian side is keen to retain Lookman for the long term, but will not hesitate to entertain offers that meet their valuation.

    PSG’s interest, in particular, adds another layer of intrigue, with the Parisians always looking to strengthen their attacking options.

    What’s Next for Ademola Lookman?

    With his stock at an all-time high, Lookman now finds himself among the most coveted footballers in Europe.

    Whether he stays at Atalanta or takes on a new challenge in a bigger league, the next chapter in his career will be one to watch closely.

    His performances for club and country over the past year have demonstrated that he is not just a rising star, but a proven match-winner at the highest level.

    For now, though, Lookman can savor the accolades and the recognition that have come his way. As the 2024 African Footballer of the Year, he has firmly placed himself among the elite of African football — and the best is likely yet to come.



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  • 10 EPL Stars who’ve lost the most market value in 2024

    As the 2024 Premier League season unfolds, a number of high-profile stars have seen their market values take a significant hit.

    From injuries to loss of form and age catching up with some of the EPL top performers, the latest player market valuations reveal a stark reality: even the brightest talents can falter.

    Among the most notable names to suffer are players from Manchester City, Arsenal, and Chelsea, with several high-profile figures from these clubs seeing their worth plummet.

    Here’s a look at the Top 10 EPL players who have lost the most market value in 2024, and the factors behind their decline.

    10. James Ward-Prowse (-€22 million)

    Once regarded as one of the EPL premier set-piece specialists, James Ward-Prowse’s market value has taken a substantial hit.

    After leaving West Ham on loan for Nottingham Forest in the summer, the 30-year-old has struggled to make an impact in his new surroundings.

    Despite West Ham’s mixed performances in his absence, Ward-Prowse has failed to shine at Forest. Just 12 months ago, the England international was being tipped for a recall to the national team, but now his future looks uncertain as he grapples with a loss of form.

    9. Raheem Sterling (-€23 million)

    Raheem Sterling’s 2024 campaign has been a year to forget. The winger, who was once the focal point of Manchester City’s attack, has struggled at Chelsea.

    Often blamed for the team’s inconsistent performances, Sterling’s market value has plummeted as his form deteriorated.

    His move to Arsenal, which many hoped would reignite his career, has not panned out as expected. With limited starts and a goal drought that extends into 2024, Sterling’s value has taken a significant hit, and his England career seems to be all but over.

    8. Kevin De Bruyne (-€25 million)

    Kevin De Bruyne has long been regarded as one of the best playmakers in world football, but age and injury seem to have caught up with the Belgian maestro.

    After a pivotal role in Manchester City’s treble-winning campaign, De Bruyne has spent much of 2024 sidelined due to injuries, with his form suffering as a result.

    With 2024 marking his 34th year, rumors of a potential move to MLS have begun to surface. The combination of age and persistent injury troubles has led to a sharp drop in his market value, signaling that we may have seen the best of De Bruyne in the Premier League.

    7. Evan Ferguson (-€25 million)

    Evan Ferguson was once touted as Brighton’s next big-money sale, with some experts predicting he could fetch £100 million in the future.

    However, the 20-year-old Republic of Ireland international has seen his value sharply decrease due to a combination of injuries and a decline in form. Ferguson is still a young player with immense potential, but after a series of setbacks, he now faces a critical period in his career to rediscover his form.

    Brighton have reportedly made him available for a loan move in January, with a fresh start likely needed for him to regain his confidence and market value.

    6. Lucas Paquetá (-€25 million)

    Lucas Paquetá’s stock has dropped significantly in 2024 after a tumultuous year both on and off the pitch. Once West Ham’s star midfielder, Paquetá has found himself relegated to the bench under David Moyes.

    His loss of form has been compounded by legal troubles, as the Brazilian faces FA charges over alleged breaches of betting rules.

    If found guilty, Paquetá could face a lengthy ban, further damaging his value and future in the game. West Ham are reportedly considering selling him in January, and several Brazilian clubs are said to be monitoring the situation.

    5. Gabriel Jesus (-€25 million)

    Gabriel Jesus arrived at Arsenal in 2022 as a marquee signing, and the Brazilian initially made an impact with his work rate and movement.

    However, since suffering an injury before the World Cup, Jesus has struggled to regain his best form. Now frequently a substitute at Arsenal, he has failed to find the back of the net in the EPL so far this season.

    READ MORE:Super Eagles B squad for CHAN qualifiers unveiled

    With just 4 goals in all competitions in 2024-25, Jesus’s market value has plummeted. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains supportive of the striker, but a lack of goals has put Jesus’s future at the Emirates in doubt.

    4. Jack Grealish (-€25 million)

    Jack Grealish’s stock has fallen dramatically over the past 12 months. Once a key figure for both Manchester City and England, the 29-year-old winger has faced a tough year, plagued by injuries and inconsistent performances.

    Grealish has yet to score in 2024, and his role at Manchester City has become less prominent.

    With increasing competition for places and reports of his frustration, the former Aston Villa star’s market value has seen a significant decline. A move away from the Etihad may be on the cards if his situation doesn’t improve.

    3. Christopher Nkunku (-€25 million)

    Christopher Nkunku’s move to Chelsea in the summer raised plenty of eyebrows, but injuries have prevented the French forward from making an impact at Stamford Bridge.

    With the emergence of Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson in attack, Nkunku has struggled to secure a starting spot in Enzo maresca’s line-up.

    Largely limited to UEFA Conference League appearances, Nkunku has reportedly expressed unhappiness with his limited role.

    Despite his quality, his market value has taken a substantial dip, and the 27-year-old may look for a new challenge if his situation doesn’t change.

    2. Federico Chiesa (-€28 million)

    Federico Chiesa’s career has been marred by injuries since his move to Liverpool in the summer, with the Italy international failing to make an impact for both his club and country.

    Chiesa has not featured for Liverpool since September, and his struggles at Euro 2024 with Italy have further tarnished his reputation.

    Once seen as a star in the making, Chiesa’s market value has tumbled to just €22 million, and many are questioning whether he will ever regain the form that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after talents.

    1. Gabriel Martinelli (-€30 million)

    The biggest drop in market value among EPL stars in 2024 belongs to Gabriel Martinelli. Once one of Arsenal’s standout performers, the Brazilian winger has seen his value fall sharply after a disappointing season and a slow start to 2024-25.

    Martinelli scored 15 goals in all competitions during the 2022-23 season, but his tally dropped to just eight goals last season, and he has only four goals in 22 appearances so far this term.

    The decline in form has led some pundits to question whether Martinelli can regain the trajectory that once made him one of the EPL most promising talents.



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  • Super Eagles B squad for CHAN qualifiers unveiled

    The Nigerian national team, Super Eagles B, is set to face Ghana’s Black Galaxies in the first leg of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers, with stand-in Head Coach Daniel Ogunmodede announcing an 18-man squad composed entirely of NPFL stars.

    Key Players

    The squad includes a mix of experience and fresh talent, with Rabiu Ali of Kano Pillars, wing-back Sadiq Ishmael (Remo Stars), and centre-back Stephen Manyo (Rivers United) leading the defense. Midfielders Musa Zayyad (El-Kanemi Warriors) and Jide Fatokun (Remo Stars) bring dynamism to the midfield, while forwards Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United) and Sikiru Alimi (Remo Stars) will spearhead the attack.

    Other notable inclusions are goalkeeper Henry Ozoemena (Enyimba FC), defender Victor Collins (Nasarawa United), and forward Abubakar Adamu (Plateau United).

    Fixture Details

    The Super Eagles B will travel to Accra for the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, December 22, with kick-off at 4 pm local time (5 pm in Nigeria). The return leg is scheduled for Saturday, December 28, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

    Nigeria will aim to overturn past disappointments, as Ghana blocked their qualification for CHAN in both 2009 and 2023.

    READ MORE:Flamingos reach U17 WAFU-B Women’s Cup Final

    Additional Rivalry

    On the same day as the first leg, the U17 women’s teams of Nigeria and Ghana will compete for the inaugural WAFU B U17 Cup at the Ghana Centre of Excellence in Prampram.

    Squad Breakdown

    Goalkeepers

    • Henry Ozoemena (Enyimba FC)
    • Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars)

    Defenders

    • Ismail Sadiq (Remo Stars)
    • Waliu Ojetoye (Ikorodu City)
    • Imo Obot (Enyimba FC)
    • Junior Nduka (Remo Stars)
    • Victor Collins (Nasarawa United)
    • Ifeanyi Onyebuchi (Rangers International)
    • Stephen Manyo (Rivers United)

    Midfielders

    • Jide Fatokun (Remo Stars)
    • Rabiu Ali (Kano Pillars)
    • Saviour Isaac (Rangers International)
    • Musa Zayyad (El-Kanemi Warriors)

    Forwards

    • Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United)
    • Adamu Abubakar (Plateau United)
    • Sikiru Alimi (Remo Stars)
    • Emmanuel Ogbole (Kwara United)
    • Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes)

    CHAN Qualification Outlook

    The aggregate winner will secure a place in the 8th CHAN, to be co-hosted by Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda from February 1 to 28, 2025. With the stakes high and a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, Nigeria will look to secure a vital first-leg result in Accra.



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  • NWFL changes revealed: New season kicks off with clash between Edo Queens and Abia Angels

    The Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) has officially announced Wednesday, 15th January 2025, as the kick-off date for the highly anticipated 2024/2025 Premiership season.

    In a landmark decision made at the Congress, the league will begin with a thrilling star match between defending champions Edo Queens and Abia Angels, set to take place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin.

    Two-Group Format Retained for 2024/2025 Season

    The Congress confirmed that the two-group format will continue for the upcoming season, with the teams divided into Group A and Group B. The groups were determined through a seeding process, and they are as follows:

    Group A:

    • Edo Queens FC (Defending Champions)
    • Abia Angels FC
    • Ekiti Queens FC
    • Heartland Queens
    • Confluence Queens
    • Remo Stars Ladies
    • Nasarawa Amazons
    • Dannaz Ladies FC

    Group B:

    • Rivers Angels FC
    • Ibom Angels FC
    • Adamawa Queens
    • Naija Ratels FC
    • Honey Badgers FC
    • FC Robo Queens
    • Bayelsa Queens FC
    • Delta Queens FC

    The draw also confirmed the promotion of Ibom Angels and Honey Badgers from the NWFL Championship to the Premiership, while Royal Queens and Sunshine Queens were relegated to the Championship.

    Expansion and Structural Changes for Future Growth

    In a significant move to foster growth within the league, the Congress unanimously agreed to increase the number of clubs in the Premiership from 16 to 20, effective from the 2025/2026 season. This decision aims to further expand the league, with necessary arrangements to ensure a successful take-off.

    The Congress also resolved to retain the 20-club structure for the NWFL Championship. Moreover, the implementation of the States League as the 3rd tier of the NWFL will take effect starting from the 2024/2025 season, further expanding opportunities for teams at all levels.

    READ MORE:Iheanacho set to leave Sevilla amidst struggles – The Athletic NG

    Board Committees to Support New Structure

    The NWFL Congress aligned with the creation of several key Board Committees to assist in the implementation of the new three-tier structure of the league. These committees are as follows:

    • Marketing and Communication Committee
    • Premiership Super 6 Committee
    • Championship Committee
    • States League Committee

    The committees will play an essential role in ensuring the smooth execution of the league’s expansion and the effective implementation of the new structures.

    As the 2024/2025 season rapidly approaches, all eyes are on the exciting developments within the NWFL. The league’s expansion and structural reforms are expected to elevate the competition, providing more opportunities for players, teams, and fans alike.



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  • Ngwo makes history with thrilling penalty win in Boolu Ogbe Season 5

    Ngwo FC made history on monday, clinching the Boolu Ogbe Season 5 Bet9ja Cup with a dramatic 10-9 penalty shootout victory over New Haven FC. The match, held at the Nnamdi Azikwe stadium Enugu, ended 0-0 after regulation time, setting the stage for an unforgettable shootout that captivated fans from start to finish.

    The game itself was a thrilling contest, with both teams showcasing skill, determination, and resilience. Each side managed not to score during regulation time, forcing the match into penalties.

    After a tense shootout, Ngwo FC kept their composure, securing the win in a nerve-wracking finale. This victory marked a historic achievement for Ngwo FC, as they became the first team in the competition’s history to win the Boolu Ogbe Cup twice.

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    The occasion was graced by several notable figures. Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Ike Lloyd Ekweremadu Jr., was present to witness the historic event. The Local Government Chairman of Enugu North, Dr. Ibenaku Onoh, had the honor of handing over the trophy to the winning team. The General Overseer of The Family Breakthrough Ministry Worldwide, Prophet Dennis Chizoba Nwosu, also attended the event, along with music sensation Kolaboy.

    The event was further enhanced by the presence of other prominent figures, including the General Manager of Rangers FC, Barr. Amobi Ezeaku, Chief Nweke Kingsley Chizoba (Odaa Opuo 1 N’Igboland) and philanthropist Okwuluora, whose contributions continue to make a positive impact in the Enugu communities.

    In his speech, LOC Chairman Coal city football league Amb. Domben Chisom expressed his gratitude to Ndi Enugu for their unwavering support throughout Season 5, acknowledging the fans, players, sponsors and stakeholders for their dedication to the success of the competition. He praised the remarkable spirit displayed by both teams and emphasized how the tournament continues to shine a light on the growing talent in Enugu and beyond.

    Chisom also promised a bigger and more exciting Season 6, stating, “We are committed to making the next edition of the Boolu Ogbe Cup even more thrilling and enhanced. This is just the beginning of what we envision as a lasting legacy for grassroot football in Enugu State and Nigeria as a whole. We want to ensure that every season is bigger, better, and more engaging for everyone involved.”

    His words were met with excitement and applause, as fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter of the tournament, confident that the future of the competition holds even greater opportunities for players and teams.

    READ MORE:Iheanacho set to leave Sevilla amidst struggles – The Athletic NG

    Ngwo FC’s victory not only solidified their place in the tournament’s legacy but also showcased their continued dominance. Fans celebrated their team’s remarkable achievement, while New Haven’s valiant effort earned them praise for their resilience throughout the match and shootout.

    With this win, Ngwo FC has firmly established itself as one of the top teams in the Boolu Ogbe tournament and will look forward to defending their title in the upcoming seasons.

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  • Ghana ready to battle Nigeria in 2024 CHAN Qualifier

    Ghana’s Black Galaxies head coach, Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, has expressed confidence in his team’s readiness ahead of their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier against perennial rivals Nigeria.

    The two West African football powerhouses will face off for a place in CHAN 2024, with the first leg set to take place at the Accra Sports Stadium this Sunday.

    Speaking to Ghana Guardian, Dramani emphasized that facing Nigeria in the qualifier was not unexpected, asserting that it is a natural part of the journey for teams aiming to reach the top in African football.

    “In football, when you want to get to the top, you should be ready to meet the top liners. For me, it was not surprising that we were meeting Nigeria,” Dramani said. “They are a great side, but we are equally determined to achieve our goals. We are fully prepared for the challenge.”

    “The team has come a long way since we defeated Nigeria last time, and the spirit is even stronger now,” Dramani added. “This is a new challenge, but we are ready to take it on with everything we have.”

    The Black Galaxies will be seeking to continue their dominance over Nigeria, having eliminated them from the qualification race for the last edition of the competition.

    READ MORE:CAF announces key dates for 2025 African Football Events

    The 2024 African Nations Championship is set to take place in Algeria, and the winner of this two-legged qualifier will secure their spot in the tournament.

    As the countdown to the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium begins, anticipation is mounting among fans, and the Black Galaxies will be hoping to make a strong statement in front of their home crowd before heading to Uyo for the decisive second leg.



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