Paradise News

Tag: General Sports

  • NPFL : 3SC extend winning Streak to three, climb to 4th

    Shooting Stars (3SC) continued their impressive form with a 2-0 win over Kano Pillars in their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 17 clash at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan.

    The win marked 3SC’s third consecutive victory without conceding, following a 1-0 away win over Sunshine Stars and a 2-0 home triumph against Abia Warriors.

    With the result, 3SC moved up to 4th place in the standings with 27 points, as Coach Gbenga Ogunbote’s men continue to push for a top spot.

    Akpan and Agba’a Seal the Win for 3SC

    The match saw Joshua Akpan break the deadlock just before halftime, scoring in the 44th minute to give 3SC a 1-0 lead. The second half saw Adam Mustapha double the advantage in the 78th minute with a brillant free kick.

    Kano Pillars, missing key players Ahmed Musa and Shehu Abdullahi due to injury, as well as captain Rabiu Ali, who was away on national team duty, struggled to break down 3SC’s solid defense and failed to create significant chances.

    Lobi Stars’ Hard-Fought Win Lifts Them to 15th Place

    In another important match, Lobi Stars managed a crucial 1-0 win over Plateau United at the Lafia stadium. Waheed Adebayo’s goal in the 45th minute proved to be the match-winner, lifting Lobi out of the relegation zone to 15th place with 19 points.

    The victory provided Lobi with a much-needed boost, and they will now look to build on this momentum as they travel to Benin City to face Insurance on Matchday 18.

    Plateau United Drop to 16th After Defeat

    For Plateau United, the loss dropped them to 16th place with 18 points, as they continue to struggle for consistency this season. Coach Mangut Mbwas’ side will need to regroup quickly, as they prepare for a tough clash against Enyimba in Jos next on Matchday 18.

    Both 3SC and Lobi Stars will be buoyed by their victories, while the pressure mounts on struggling sides like Kano Pillars and Plateau United as the NPFL season heads into its second half.

    READ MORE: Ademola Lookman focused on growth, dismisses Premier League return rumors



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  • Pape Thiaw’s appointment as Senegal Coach sparks excitement

    Senegal have appointed Pape Thiaw as their new national coach, with the 43-year-old tasked with leading the team to reclaim the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title and secure qualification for the next World Cup.

    The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) confirmed Thiaw’s appointment on Friday, following his successful tenure as interim coach since October.

    The former Senegalese international will take the reins with immediate effect, signing a two-year renewable contract that outlines ambitious objectives: securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and reaching the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

    Thiaw stepped in after the dismissal of Aliou Cissé, who had managed the team since 2015, guiding them to their first AFCON title in 2021 and to the last two World Cup tournaments.

    READ MORE: Ademola Lookman focused on growth, dismisses Premier League return rumors

    Thiaw, a former Senegal international, brings both playing and coaching experience to the role. The ex-forward, who had stints with French clubs Saint-Étienne, Strasbourg, and Metz, was part of the Senegal team that reached the quarter-finals of the 2002 World Cup.

    As a coach, Thiaw achieved significant success, notably winning the 2022 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a squad made up of domestic-based players.

    With Thiaw now at the helm, Senegal will be aiming for continued success on the continental and global stage, starting with the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and the upcoming World Cup qualifiers.



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  • FIFA Ranking: Super Falcons hold steady at 36th and No 1 in Africa

    Super Falcons of Nigeria maintained their 36th position in the latest FIFA Women’s Ranking released by the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA) on Friday.

    The nine-time African champions, during the period under review, played three friendly matches, 2-o victory against Algeria in Ikenne, Ogun state and 4-1 bashing of the same team in Onikan, Lagos.

    READ MORE: Ademola Lookman focused on growth, dismisses Premier League return rumors

    France dominated possession early on, with Eugénie Le Sommer opening the scoring in the 29th minute, assisted by Marie-Antoinette Katoto.

    Amel Majri doubled France’s lead in the 37th minute. Nigeria’s resilience paid off just before halftime, as Ifeoma Onumonu scored in added time (45’+3), capitalizing on Gift Monday’s assist.

    Ifeoma Onumonu made history as the first Super Falcons player to score against France.Despite the loss, the Super Falcons retained their top spot in Africa, with South Africa’s Banyana Banyana holding the second position. Morocco, Zambia, and Ghana round out the top five in the African rankings.

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    The Nigerian senior women’s national team consistent performance keeps them firmly positioned as the dominant force in women’s football on the continent, and their ranking reflects their continued prominence in international women’s football.

     

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  • NWFL to Hold 2024 Annual General Assembly in Abuja

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will host the 2024 Annual General Assembly (AGA) of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. The event will take place at the Fabino by Toprank Hotels in Abuja.

    Chief Operating Officer of the NWFL Modupe Shabi, confirmed that all preparations for the AGA had been completed. She highlighted that the meeting would serve as an essential forum for reviewing the progress of women’s football in Nigeria, addressing both the achievements and challenges faced during the 2023/2024 season.

    READ MORE: Super Eagles striker sidelined until 2025 due to severe injury

    “This year’s AGA promises to be a milestone for Nigerian women’s football, as it will guide us in shaping the future of the league and advancing its rising agenda,” said Shabi. “We will reflect on the successes of the season, strategize on addressing challenges, and set the course for next season.”

    The gathering will bring together board members, Premiership and Championship club representatives, and other key figures in the women’s football ecosystem.

    In addition, the newly promoted teams — Honey Badgers and Ibom Angels — will also be in the spotlight, having secured their places in the Premiership after a successful campaign in the NWFL Championship.

    The AGA will also focus on enhancing the league’s credibility, improving operational efficiency, and finalizing the calendar for the 2024/2025 NWFL Premiership and Championship seasons.

    This important event will lay the foundation for the league’s future, ensuring it remains a competitive and thriving platform for female footballers in the country.

     



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  • Alex Iwobi reveals secret behind his best ever EPL start

    Nigeria & Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has opened up about his impressive form this season and the key role manager Marco Silva has played in bringing out the best in him. Speaking to The Standard, Iwobi reflected on his best-ever start to a Premier League campaign, which has seen him score five goals — matching his tally from last season.

    “You could say it is my best start to the season — I just have to keep it going and make sure it’s my best season,” said Iwobi. “That’s the aim.”

    The Nigerian international has been a standout performer for Fulham this season, and his consistency in front of goal has made him one of the club’s most influential players. Despite already equaling his best-ever tally for a Premier League season, Iwobi is determined to reach even greater heights as the campaign progresses.

    Confidence Under Marco Silva

    A key factor in Iwobi’s form has been the trust and confidence instilled in him by manager Marco Silva. Iwobi credits Silva’s unwavering support for his growth and development, with the Portuguese manager pushing him to continually strive for improvement.

    “If I do make a mistake, I can go again,” Iwobi explained. “It’s nice to have a manager who gives you the confidence to do that.”

    He added, “Players normally do well when they are confident, and with me, feeling confident to express myself on and off the pitch, I almost feel unstoppable.”

    Silva’s philosophy of fostering confidence and self-belief has been pivotal in Iwobi’s development at Fulham. The midfielder is not only thriving on the pitch but also feels an emotional connection to the club’s culture, which Silva has worked hard to nurture.

    Team Unity at Fulham

    Iwobi also highlighted the strong sense of unity within the Fulham squad, describing the team as a “family.” He emphasized the absence of egos at the club and the mutual respect that exists between all players, regardless of their status or experience.

    “At Fulham, the main thing is that there’s no egos. Everyone treats each other the same way. “Also, outside the training ground, we stay in touch. We’ve had a lot of meals in London, we organized a trip to Paris to clear our heads, came back then went again with the Tottenham result and the Brighton result.

    “It’s really nice. It’s like one big family. We feel like we’re ready to fly and we can do anything together,” Iwobi added, underscoring the importance of team bonding in the squad’s strong performances this season.

    READ MORE: Super Eagles striker sidelined until 2025 due to severe injury

    Preparing for Liverpool Challenge

    Looking ahead to Fulham’s upcoming Premier League clash with Liverpool, Iwobi remains optimistic, despite the tough challenge awaiting at Anfield. The Cottagers are gearing up for a crucial test against Jurgen Klopp’s high-flying side, who are currently top of the Premier League.

    “We are going there to get a result,” Iwobi said with confidence. “You never know in the Premier League – in any game, anything can happen. Even though they are top of the league, we want to get the result we want.”

    Iwobi’s belief in the unpredictability of the Premier League, coupled with Fulham’s strong team spirit, suggests the club is ready to take on any challenge that comes their way. With Iwobi in top form and a supportive manager in Marco Silva, the Cottagers will be hoping to continue their positive run when they visit Anfield this weekend.



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  • Yamal tops Google search as 2024’s most searched footballer

    Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal has emerged as the most searched footballer on Google in 2024, a remarkable feat that reflects his meteoric rise in the football world. At just 17 years old, Yamal’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, marked by record-breaking performances and individual accolades that have captivated fans globally.

     

    Since breaking onto the scene, Yamal has become an integral part of Barcelona’s first team, dazzling spectators with his talent and maturity. His performances have not only earned him a regular starting spot at one of the world’s biggest clubs but also helped fuel Spain’s successful Euro 2024 campaign in Germany. There, Yamal’s dazzling displays earned him the coveted Young Player of the Tournament award, underscoring his growing reputation, according to UEFA.

     

    Since turning 17 in July, Yamal has shown a level of composure and brilliance far beyond his years. His presence on the pitch is often described as a mix of raw talent and seasoned confidence, and he has quickly become a fan favorite in both Barcelona and the Spanish national team.

    The teenager’s stunning performances in the 2024/25 season further solidify his status as one of football’s brightest stars. With each game, Yamal continues to demonstrate the skills and maturity expected of a generational talent.

     

    According to Goal, Yamal was ranked among the top three most Googled athletes globally in 2024. He finished in third place, behind only Olympic boxing sensation Imane Khelif and legendary fighter Mike Tyson. This ranking underscores not only his on-field achievements but also the growing fascination with his story and future potential.

    READ MORE: Ademola Lookman focused on growth, dismisses Premier League return rumors

    In a historic achievement, Yamal also earned an impressive eighth-place finish in the overall Ballon d’Or rankings, becoming the youngest nominee ever in the award’s prestigious history.



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  • Boolu Ogbe Season 5 Final: Ngwo and New Haven set for epic showdown

    The highly anticipated grand finale of Boolu Ogbe Season 5 is just around the corner, and football fans are counting down the days for what promises to be an electrifying showdown between Ngwo and New Haven.

    The match is set for December 16, 2024, at the historic Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu, where both teams will battle for supremacy and the coveted season title.

    Ngwo, the champions of Season 3, bring a wealth of experience to the final. Known for their tactical discipline and intense passion, they are no strangers to the pressure of the big stage

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    One the other side, New Haven has emerged as one of the most exciting teams of the season. Their attacking prowess and remarkable team chemistry have propelled them to the final, where they are ready to make history.

    For New Haven, this final represents a chance to secure their first-ever Boolu Ogbe title, and they will be looking to make the most of this opportunity with a performance that showcases their dynamic and fast-paced football.

    Domben Chisom, chairman of the Coal City Football League, expressed his excitement ahead of the final: “This season has been extraordinary, and this final is the perfect way to cap it off. Ngwo and New Haven are two deserving teams, and we’re expecting fireworks on the pitch

    READ MORE: Super Eagles striker sidelined until 2025 due to severe injury

    With pride, bragging rights, and the Season 5 title on the line, the Boolu Ogbe final is sure to be a spectacle to remember.

    Will Ngwo reclaim their former glory, or will New Haven rise to the occasion and capture their first championship? The answer will unfold on December 16 at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, as all roads lead to this thrilling conclusion.

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  • Future Eagles fall short to Morocco

    Nigeria U15 the Future Eagles suffered a 2-0 defeat to Morocco’s U16 team in the first of two international friendlies at the Complexe Mohammed VI de Football on Tuesday

    The match marked the team’s return to international competition under the FIFA Talent Development Scheme (TDS), providing a crucial opportunity to assess their development.

    Morocco showed their tactical maturity from the outset, dominating possession and dictating the pace of the game. They broke the deadlock with a precise goal in the first half, taking control of the match early on.

    Despite some promising moments from the Future Eagles, they struggled to create clear opportunities and find the back of the net.

    The Moroccan team sealed their victory with a second goal in the closing stages of the match, solidifying their 2-0 triumph.

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    Although the result was disappointing for the young Nigerians, the game proved valuable in their development process.

    The Future Eagles are set to face Morocco again on December 15th in the second friendly.



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  • Akwa United in Hot Water: threats to Broadcast crew amidst disastrous season

    Akwa United FC has been reprimanded by the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) following an incident in which the club’s Welfare Officer, Mr. Asuquo Samuel, was filmed threatening the crew of Propel Sports Africa (PSA)

    The incident took place during the club’s 1-1 draw with Bendel Insurance on Monday, December 10, 2024.

    In response, the NPFL issued a formal warning to Akwa United, expressing grave concern over Mr. Asuquo’s actions.

    A letter from the NPFL, signed by Chief Operating Officer Davidson Owumi, described the harassment and intimidation of Propel Sports’ technical staff as unacceptable, highlighting the legal risks, reputational damage, and financial costs such behavior could cause the league.

    The letter stressed that the actions of Akwa United’s official fell short of the professionalism expected within the NPFL, violating the league’s core principles.

    The club was warned that any recurrence of such behavior would result in severe sanctions against both the club and the individual involved.

    As a result, Mr. Asuquo has been invited to appear before a disciplinary panel in Abuja on Wednesday, December 18, 2024.

    The NPFL emphasized that attendance is mandatory, and failure to appear may lead to further disciplinary actions.

    The NPFL has also instructed Akwa United to take immediate action to ensure such incidents do not recur, reminding the club of its responsibility to uphold the integrity and professionalism of the league.

    Akwa United is enduring a challenging season. The club currently sits in the relegation zone, having recorded 4 wins, 4 draws, and 8 losses from 16 matches.

    Their struggles this season have led to heavy criticism, with the resignation of Technical Adviser Mohammed Babaganaru, who stepped down amid mounting pressure.

    Akwa United’s next challenge comes in Match Day 17, where they will face a rejuvenated Bayelsa United, managed by Ladan Bosso, in Yengoa.



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  • Shakirat shines as Flamingos crush Niger 9-0

    Shakirat Moshood delivered a sensational performance as Nigeria’s Flamingos opened their WAFU U-17 Championship campaign with a dominant 9-0 victory over Niger in Ghana.

    Shakirat’s stunning display, which included four breathtaking long-range goals, earned her the Player of the Match Award and further cemented her reputation as a generational talent.

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    Nigeria wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Moshood scoring two wonder goals early in the first half. Janet Akekoromowei followed up with a clinical hat trick, while Aishat Animashaun added another goal to make it 7-0 by halftime.

    In the second half, substitute Peace Effiong added to the tally, and Moshood capped off her extraordinary performance with yet another goal to complete the rout.

    The Flamingos were among the nations that participated in the 2024 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in the Dominican Republic, where they impressed but were eliminated in the quarterfinals by the USA.

    Now, the team is determined to make history by clinching the inaugural WAFU U-17 Girls Championship.

    Coach Olowookere Bankole’s side delivered a statement victory, dominating their opponents with skill, precision, and an unrelenting attacking approach.

    Next, they face Ivory Coast on December 16, 2024, as they continue their quest for glory.



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