Tag: General Sports

Former Super Eagles coach Chief Adeboye Onigbinde has urged newly appointed Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle to properly manage the nation’s wealth of footballing talent if he hopes to succeed.

Despite boasting some of Africa’s finest footballers, Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification campaign has been disappointing.

The Super Eagles currently sit fifth in Group C, behind Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, and Lesotho, with only the group winner earning automatic qualification.

Nigeria’s squad features Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi (England), Victor Boniface and Gift Orban (Germany), Chuba Akpom and Moses Simon (France), Samuel Chukwueze and Ademola Lookman (Italy), along with several other top talents across Europe.

However, results have not matched expectations, leaving Chelle with a tough challenge to turn things around.

Chelle’s Task: Rebuilding the Super Eagles

Following a period of instability under Finidi George and Augustine Eguavoen, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has placed its trust in Chelle to guide the Super Eagles to their first World Cup since 2018.

READ MORE:Flying Eagles ranked among top teams for 2025 U-20 AFCON

To achieve this, Chelle has already met with key players in Europe, including Iwobi, Ndidi, and Simon, in a bid to build a stronger, more cohesive team. He is also reportedly looking to introduce fresh talents from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

Onigbinde’s Advice: Talent Alone Won’t Guarantee Success

Onigbinde, who led Nigeria to the 1984 AFCON final and guided Shooting Stars to the 1994 CAF Champions League final, acknowledges that Nigeria possesses world-class players but warns that proper management will determine success.

“It depends on how you look at it,” Onigbinde told Complete Sports.

“If you consider Nigeria’s natural footballing talent, then there’s no reason we shouldn’t be beating Rwanda and every other team in our group.

“Nigeria has the players to be one of the best teams in the world. But the real question is, how do we manage these talents?”

Nigeria’s Road to the World Cup

The Super Eagles’ qualification campaign resumes in March with crucial fixtures against Rwanda and Zimbabwe. They will then face Rwanda again in August, before a potentially decisive away clash against South Africa in September.

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With South Africa, Rwanda, and Benin leading Group C on seven points, while Nigeria sits at just three points, Chelle must quickly find a winning formula to keep Nigeria’s World Cup hopes alive.

Source: The Athletic NG

Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho has shared insights into the key figures who have shaped his football journey, from his early days at Manchester City to his latest move to Middlesbrough.

After a difficult spell in Spain with Sevilla, Iheanacho has returned to England, where he will play for Middlesbrough until the end of the season.

Speaking at his unveiling, the Nigerian international credited several managers and teammates for their impact on his development.

“Biggest influence on my career? There are quite a few. So many people helped me throughout my career—[Manuel] Pellegrini, Brendan Rodgers, Pep Guardiola. Players as well—Gaël Clichy, Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure, Jamie Vardy.

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Even in the [Nigerian] national team, John Mikel Obi and many coaches have played a role in my growth,” Iheanacho said.

Iheanacho burst onto the scene at Manchester City, making his senior debut under Manuel Pellegrini in 2015. He continued his development under Pep Guardiola, learning from seasoned professionals like Kompany, Toure, and Clichy.

READ MORE:Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre secures big contract extension with Al-Ittihad

Despite showing promise, limited playing time at City led to his transfer to Leicester City in 2017.

Joining Leicester, Iheanacho formed a strong partnership with Jamie Vardy but initially struggled for consistency. However, under Brendan Rodgers, he found his best form during the 2020-21 season, finishing as Leicester’s top scorer and helping them secure the FA Cup title.

Source: The Athletic NG

Nigeria’s U20 national team, the Flying Eagles, have unveiled a 30-man squad as they step up preparations for the 2024 Africa U20 Cup of Nations (AFCON), which kicks off in April.

Head coach Aliyu Zubairu has selected a mix of home-based talents for a two-match friendly tour against Egypt’s U20 team later this month. Some of the notable names in the squad include Sporting Lagos goalkeeper Ifeanyi Harcourt, Bayelsa United defender Daniel Bameyi, El-Kanemi Warriors midfielder Alabi Sulaiman Jojo, and Enyimba forward Clinton Japhet.

The seven-time African champions will take on Egypt in back-to-back friendly matches scheduled for February 25 and 27 in Cairo. These matches will serve as key preparatory fixtures ahead of the continental tournament in Côte d’Ivoire, where Nigeria will aim to secure an eighth U20 AFCON title.

The competition, set to run from April 26 to May 18, will also serve as a qualifying event for the FIFA U20 World Cup in Chile later this year, with the top four teams booking their place at the global tournament.

The Flying Eagles, one of the most successful teams in African youth football, have previously won the U20 AFCON title in 1983, 1985, 1987, 1989, 2005, 2011, and 2015. They secured their spot in this year’s edition after triumphing in the WAFU-B U20 Championship in Lomé, Togo, last October, where they defeated Ghana’s Black Satellites 3-1 in the final.

READ MORE:Super Falcons defender Ashleigh Plumptre secures big contract extension with Al-Ittihad

At the last FIFA U20 World Cup in Argentina, the team came close to reaching the semi-finals but suffered a heartbreaking extra-time defeat to South Korea in the quarterfinals.

The full squad list includes:

Goalkeepers: Ifeanyi Harcourt (Sporting Lagos), Light Emerenonye (Diamond Academy), Abubakar Rufai (Mavlon FC).

Defenders: Adamu Maigari (El-Kanemi Warriors), Daniel Bameyi (Bayelsa United), Kenneth Igbokwe (Enugu Rangers), Haruna Aliyu (Wikki Tourists), Musa Ademu (Wireless FC), Shamsudeen Muhammad (Mavlon FC), Ibrahim Abdullahi, Shamsudeen Ishaq (Grassrunner FC), Steven Jolomi (Mavlon FC).

Midfielders: Raphael Oyebanji (Shuffle Select FC), Mohammed Ibrahim (Niger Tornadoes), Kizito Opara (Campus Academy), Alabi Sulaiman Jojo (El-Kanemi Warriors), Sulaiman Abubakar (Diamond Academy), Shafiu Adamu (Wikki Tourists), Cletus Simon (Mavlon FC).

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Forwards: Bidemi Amole (Real Sapphire Academy), Clinton Japhet (Enyimba FC), Matthew Chukwusa (Morack Academy), Nasiru Salihu (El-Kanemi Warriors), Divine Olisha (Fostar Academy), Jerry Salami (Aspire Academy), Oluwaseyi Akinfenwa (Real Sapphire Academy), Shola Adelami (Ikorodu City), Abdulrahaman Ishaq (Sport Supply Academy), Ezekiel Anthony (Aspire Academy), Sodiq Olalekan Adewunmi (Jaguar Sports FC).

Source: The Athletic NG

Rangers head coach Philippe Clement has confirmed that Nigerian defender Leon Balogun will return to training this week, marking a key step in his recovery from injury.

The 36-year-old has been an important figure for the Gers this season, featuring more regularly than in the previous campaign. However, he has been side-lined since Rangers’ dramatic 2-1 defeat to Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League, where Cyriel Dessers netted a late equalizer before Bruno Fernandes sealed the win in stoppage time.

Balogun was forced off at halftime in that match and has not played since. Ahead of Rangers’ Scottish Cup clash against Queens Park—which ended in a shock 1-0 loss—Clement provided an update on his squad’s injury situation, including Balogun’s progress.

“Oscar Cortes will still be a few weeks away. We have some players who will return soon. Danilo should be back next week,” Clement said, as quoted by Rangers Review.

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“I expect Dujon Sterling and Leon Balogun to return the following week. Ridvan is already back in training, and Leon King has also resumed training after his concussion.”

Despite his recent injury struggles, Balogun remains eager to contribute both for Rangers and the Nigerian national team, keeping the door open for a potential Super Eagles call-up.

READ MORE:Calvin Bassey smashes Premier League records with jaw-dropping stats

So far this season, the experienced centre-back has made 19 appearances for Rangers across all competitions, scoring one goal and providing one assist.

Source: The Athletic NG

Fulham defender Calvin Bassey has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League this season, with statistical data highlighting his exceptional contributions to Marco Silva’s side.

The Nigerian international has flourished in Fulham’s backline, playing a crucial role in a team that sits ninth in the league after 24 matches. The Cottagers have also advanced to the FA Cup fifth round, where they will face Manchester United after edging past Wigan Athletic.

Bassey has been a mainstay in the Fulham defence, making 23 Premier League appearances and amassing 2,070 minutes on the pitch. While his performances have been widely praised, deeper statistical analysis reveals just how dominant he has been in key defensive areas.

Bassey Leads Premier League in Ball Carrying

According to data from PFF FC, no centre-back in the Premier League has a higher Ball Carry Grade than Bassey, who tops the category with a score of 82.9.

This metric evaluates a player’s dribbling, carrying ability, and resistance to tackles. It typically favours midfielders, making Bassey’s ranking even more remarkable. His score places him among elite ball carriers, including James Maddison, Moisés Caicedo, and Youri Tielemans.

His ability to progress the ball out of defence has been crucial for Fulham, allowing them to bypass opposition presses and transition smoothly into attack. His composure under pressure and technical ability make him a vital asset in Silva’s tactical setup.

Defensive Dominance

Fulham have conceded 32 goals this season—ranking ninth-best in the league—and Bassey has played a major role in maintaining their defensive solidity.

The 24-year-old ranks third among centre-backs in tackling, with an impressive grade of 85.0, placing him fifth overall in the league. He has won 37 tackles and successfully defended against 20 dribbles, boasting a 44% tackle success rate (13th overall) and winning 59% of his duels against dribblers (seventh overall).

Bassey has also been effective in aerial duels, registering a grade of 79.3, ranking him 28th among centre-backs. He has won 48 aerial duels this season, showing his strength in physical battles and dominance in the air.

READ MORE:Kelechi Iheanacho reflects on key influences in his football career

A product of Leicester City’s academy, he moved to Rangers in 2020, where he won the Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup. He played a key role in Rangers’ run to the 2022 UEFA Europa League final, where they narrowly lost to Eintracht Frankfurt.

His performances in Scotland earned him a big-money move to Ajax in 2022 for a club-record £20 million, making him the most expensive Nigerian defender in history. However, after just one season in the Eredivisie, Fulham secured his services in the summer of 2023 for €21 million.

Bassey has since adapted seamlessly to the Premier League, proving his quality at the highest level. He scored his first goal for Fulham in a dramatic 2-1 victory over Manchester United in February 2024, marking his 20th league appearance for the London club.

Super Eagles Key Figure

Born in Italy, Bassey was eligible to represent Italy, England, or Nigeria at the international level. He ultimately chose Nigeria, making his Super Eagles debut in a World Cup qualifier against Ghana in March 2022.

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He played a crucial role in Nigeria’s journey to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire last year, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s top defensive talents.

Source: The Athletic NG

Super Falcons and Al-Ittihad Ladies defender Ashleigh Plumptre has officially extended her stay in Saudi Arabia, signing a new two-year contract with the Jeddah-based club.

The 26-year-old versatile defender made the move to Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023 after her contract with Women’s Super League side Leicester City expired. Since then, she has become a key player for the team, earning a well-deserved contract extension.

Plumptre played a crucial role for Nigeria at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, featuring in all four of the Super Falcons’ matches before making her switch to the Middle East. Now, 16 months later, she has reaffirmed her commitment to Al-Ittihad with a fresh deal.

READ MORE:Onigbinde warns Eric Chelle: Managing Nigeria’s Talent key to World Cup hopes

The club made the announcement via their official social media accounts, confirming Plumptre’s extended stay.

“Al-Ittihad Club announces the renewal of the contract of the first women’s team player, Nigerian international Ashley Plumptre, for two years.

“The club’s CEO, Mr. Domingos Oliveira, confirmed that renewing the player’s contract aligns with the club’s strategy to retain outstanding talents who are eager to develop and contribute to the team’s success.

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He wished Ashley Plumptre and her teammates success in making the fans proud with their achievements,” the club posted on their official X page.

Plumptre was instrumental in helping Nigeria secure a spot at the Olympics for the first time in 16 years. Unfortunately, she missed the tournament due to injury, which sidelined her from action.

Source: The Athletic NG

Amaju Pinnick, former president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), remains optimistic about his chances despite growing competition from Andrew Kamanga, president of the Zambia Football Federation.

The race for a seat on the FIFA Council has intensified following public endorsements for Kamanga from CECAFA and COSAFA over the weekend. However, Pinnick remains confident, citing his extensive support network across Africa.

Acknowledging the endorsements, Pinnick remarked, “We’ve seen situations like this before, and it’s good that the unions have declared their support.

But I know I have friends across Africa. This election is not just between Amaju and Andrew Kamanga—there are nine other candidates in the race.”

Using a sports analogy, he compared the election to a race: “In athletics, the first five to cross the finish line win. This is not a rivalry between me and Kamanga—he is my friend. He has achieved great things for Zambian football. We have collaborated multiple times, and honestly, I’d be surprised if he didn’t vote for me.”

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Pinnick highlighted the broad backing he has received from various African football bodies, including COSAFA, CECAFA, WAFU A, WAFU B, and North Africa.

“All 10 candidates are highly qualified and deserve to run. That’s the essence of elections. We will present our case, but ultimately, power belongs to God. This is not a do-or-die affair,” he stated.

READ MORE:Super Eagles forward Emmanuel Dennis names Nigerian Legend as his inspiration at Blackburn

Emphasizing unity in African football, Pinnick added, “As long as our focus is on improving African football, I am content. It is disappointing when division is created unnecessarily.”

He also rejected the notion that only federation presidents should be eligible for the FIFA Council, calling such claims divisive.

“That matter will be addressed at the appropriate time. But I must highlight that all candidates possess exceptional qualifications.

They have succeeded in their professional fields and have translated that success into football administration,” he noted. “Their influence and experience should not be overlooked.”

With his broad network and experience, Pinnick remains determined to reclaim a seat on the FIFA Council.

Source: The Athletic NG

Nigerian midfielder Deborah Abiodun is set to spend the remainder of the 2025 calendar year on loan at USL Super League side Dallas Trinity FC, following an agreement with Washington Spirit.

The move was confirmed over the weekend by both American clubs, just weeks after Abiodun signed her first professional contract with the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) team.

Abiodun, 21, joined Washington Spirit in January 2025 on a three-year deal. However, as part of the club’s development strategy, she will gain further experience with Dallas Trinity FC before returning to Washington ahead of the 2026 season. The loan deal also includes an undisclosed fee paid by the Texas-based club.

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The talented midfielder will be joining her Washington Spirit teammate, Tamara Bolt, at Dallas Trinity FC for the season. Spirit President of Soccer Operations, Mark Krikorian, emphasized the importance of the loan move, stating,

“Deborah and Tamara’s loans are part of our development plans as they embark on their U.S. professional careers. They will gain invaluable experience in Dallas this year, and we look forward to their return to the Spirit in the future.”

Abiodun made a name for herself at the University of Pittsburgh, where she was a two-time All-ACC selection. She played a pivotal role in the university’s success, scoring 10 goals and providing three assists in 34 appearances.

READ MORE:Super Eagles Coach Eric Chelle scouts NPFL talent ahead of must-win World Cup Qualifiers

Her performances earned her recognition at the international level, representing Nigeria at major tournaments, including the 2022 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, and the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Before moving to the United States, Abiodun played for Rivers Angels in Nigeria, where she developed under the guidance of coaches like Randy Waldrum, who also coached Nigeria’s Super Falcons.

The loan spell at Dallas Trinity FC is expected to provide Abiodun with regular playing time and help her adapt to the professional game in the U.S. before she returns to the NWSL next season.

Source: The Athletic NG

AC Milan winger and Super Eagles star Samuel Chukwueze could be set for a summer departure, with Turkish Süper Lig side Besiktas keen on securing his signature.

The 25-year-old joined Milan from Villarreal in 2023 but has struggled to cement a regular role at the club. His situation has worsened under new head coach Sérgio Conceição, managing just 82 minutes of playing time since the Portuguese manager took charge.

Chukwueze was linked with a move to Fulham in January, but a deal failed to materialize due to time constraints. Milan’s technical director, Geoffrey Moncada, later confirmed the club was happy to retain the Nigerian winger beyond the transfer deadline.

READ MORE:Deborah Abiodun joins Dallas Trinity FC on loan from Washington Spirit

However, Europa Calcio now suggests that Chukwueze’s time at Milan is nearing its end. His representatives have offered him to Besiktas, and the Turkish club has opened discussions to bring him to Istanbul.

New Besiktas boss Ole Gunnar Solskjær has reportedly given the green light for the move, viewing Chukwueze as a key attacking reinforcement. The Black Eagles are working on a loan deal with an obligation to buy, hoping to strike an agreement that benefits both clubs.

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Chukwueze is seriously considering the transfer, aware that he does not feature in Milan’s long-term plans. He has also received positive feedback about the Turkish league from close friend and fellow Nigerian star Victor Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray.

Source: The Athletic NG

The Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has announced that D’Tigers will commence preparations for the 2025 FIBA AfroBasket Qualifiers 3rd Window, scheduled to take place in Tripoli, Libya, from February 17-24, 2025.

The training camp will be conducted in two phases. Home-based players are set to arrive at Bentley Hotel, Abuja, on Monday, February 10, for the first phase, which will run until February 16.

The second phase will see foreign-based players join the selected home-based players in Tripoli, Libya, on February 17, ahead of the competition.

READ MORE:i-have-friends-across-africa-pinnick-confident-in-fifa-council-bid

Head Coach Abdulrahman Mohammed, who successfully led the team in the first window, will once again take charge.

He will be supported by former Nigerian international Deji Akindele and Isikaku Ikenna Smart, an assistant coach with the Portland Trail Blazers (NBA).

D’Tigers 2025 AfroBasket Qualifiers Camp Details:

• Phase 1 (Domestic Camp): February 10 – 16, Abuja, Nigeria
• Phase 2 (Final Camp & Tournament): February 17 – 24, Tripoli, Libya

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11 home-based players were invited, while their foreign counterparts completed the 24-player preliminary roster under Head Coach Abdulrahman Mohammed.

D’Tigers Preliminary Roster:

• Zaid Hearst (Zamora, Spain)
• Okiki Michael (Rivers Hoppers, Nigeria)
• Sulaimon Azeez (Hoops & Reads, Nigeria)
• Mike Nuga (Valmiera Glass, Latvia)
• Rayyan AR Salis (Gboko City Chiefs, Nigeria)
• Ike Nwamu (CCMB, France) – Team Captain
• Patrick Abah (Royal Hoopers, Nigeria)
• Agada Caleb (Avtador, Russia)
• Abel Offia (Rivers Hoopers, Nigeria)
• Ugochukwu Simon (Virtus Ragusa, Italy)
• Wisdom Anyaoha (Gboko City Chiefs, Nigeria)
• Kareem Joseph (Hoops & Reads, Nigeria)
• Martins Igbanu (Niigata Albirex BB, Japan)
• Ifeanyi Koko (Rivers Hoopers, Nigeria)
• Ibe Agu (Customs, Nigeria)
• Abdul Malik Abu (Arriva P. Cukier, Poland)
• Christian Mekowulu (Akita Northern Happinets, Japan)
• Talib Zanna (KK Cibona, Croatia)
• Bassey Effiong (Spinet Knight, Ghana)
• Kaodirichi Akobundu-Ehiogu (Pallacanestro Varese, Italy)
• Vincent Buchi (Rivers Hoopers, Nigeria)
• Jason Jitoboh (Vellaznimi, Kosovo)
• John Egbunu (Breogan, Spain)
• Clinton Osabuohein Best (Hoops & Reads, Nigeria)

With preparations now in motion, D’Tigers will aim to build on their performances in the previous qualification rounds as they seek a strong outing in Libya.

Source: The Athletic NG