Tag: General Sports

Julius Berger, the construction company managing Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, plans to shut down operations this Friday, reportedly due to the Akwa Ibom State Government’s failure to renew its management contract.

The stadium, inaugurated in November 2014 by former President Goodluck Jonathan, was entrusted to Julius Berger under a ten-year management contract signed in May 2014, six months prior to its official opening. 

Despite promises of a contract renewal made by Akwa Ibom’s Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, in August 2023, the state has yet to fulfil this commitment, leading the company to initiate closure procedures.

Sources within the stadium have reliably informed The Athletic NG that Julius Berger recently cut around 47 staff members to minimise costs as funds for stadium maintenance dwindled. Remaining employees are reportedly facing months of unpaid wages, adding pressure on the company to cease operations.

Julius Berger are set to close down the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, ahead of the Super Eagles’ AFCON qualifier against Rwanda, due to the Akwa Ibom State Government’s failure to renew the 10-year maintenance contract, which expired in May 2024 pic.twitter.com/AdNackutLx

— The Athletic NG (@TheAthleticNG) November 14, 2024

The timing is especially problematic, with the stadium slated to host two major events: an Akwa United match on Saturday and the Super Eagles’ AFCON qualifier against Rwanda on Monday, November 18, 2024.

READ MORE: Eguavoen fires serious warning to Gernot Rohr ahead of Benin Republic clash

A worker affected by the situation shared frustration, saying, “We’ve been patient for months, but nothing has changed. Our families are struggling because of this, and it’s not right.” The ongoing tensions between Julius Berger employees and the Akwa Ibom State Government over unpaid salaries have fueled concerns regarding the government’s ability to secure the stadium’s operations ahead of these crucial matches.

While no official statement has been released by the Akwa Ibom State Government, sources suggest that urgent meetings are planned between state officials and Julius Berger representatives in an attempt to resolve the payment and contract issues before the imminent shutdown. 

With significant events on the line, stakeholders hope for a swift resolution to avoid disruptions at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

Source

Coach Augustine Eguavoen has unveiled his starting lineup for the crucial Africa Cup of Nations 2025 qualification match against Benin Republic, featuring Kelechi Iheanacho and other unexpected names.

The Super Eagles, seeking to solidify their position atop Group D, have made several changes to their lineup.

Iheanacho, who has been in impressive form for his club, returns to the starting XI after starting previous matches from the bench.

He will be joined upfront by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, forming a potent attacking trio. Another surprise inclusion is Osho, who earns his first start in the Super Eagles’ defense.

Osho will partner with William Ekong and Calvin Bassey in central defense, while Olaoluwa Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi occupy the wing-back positions.

READ MORE: Eguavoen fires serious warning to Gernot Rohr ahead of Benin Republic clash

In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi and Iheanacho will form a strong trio, tasked with controlling the tempo of the game.

The lineup also features Alex Iwobi who will provide width and pace on the flanks. The starting lineup includes Stanley Nwabali in goal, followed by Olaoluwa Aina, William Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Osho in defense.

In attack, Victor Osimhen, Kelechi Iheanacho, Ademola Lookman, and Alex Iwobi will lead the charge. Coach Eguavoen’s decision to include Iheanacho and Osho in the starting lineup may be seen as a tactical gamble, but it underscores his willingness to experiment and find the right combination.

Kelechi Iheanacho is named in the Super Eagles Lineup against Benin Republic

The Super Eagles’ attack has been impressive, but Iheanacho’s creativity and goal-scoring ability will undoubtedly boost their chances. Osho’s inclusion, on the other hand, provides a fresh perspective in defense. His partnership with Ekong and Bassey will be crucial in nullifying Benin Republic’s attacking threats.

Benin Republic, desperate to stay in contention after their loss to Rwanda, will present a formidable challenge. Their attacking lineup, led by Steve Mounié and Jodel Dossou, will test the Super Eagles’ defense.

However, Nigeria’s midfield and attacking prowess should give them an edge. The Super Eagles’ ability to create scoring opportunities and capitalize on them will be crucial in securing the desired outcome.

The match kicks off at 8:00 PM WAT on Thursday, November 14, at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan.

Nigeria currently tops Group D with 10 points, followed by Benin Republic with 6 points, Rwanda with 5 points, and Libya with 1 point.

A win for the Super Eagles would cement their position atop the group and bring them closer to securing a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Source

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially secured their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, thanks to Libya’s crucial 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali on Tuesday.

With 10 points already in their qualifying campaign, Nigeria qualified without needing to step onto the field, as Libya’s win ensured they could not be overtaken in Group D.

The match in Kigali featured a dramatic late goal from Libya’s Saad Mohammad, who scored in the 84th minute to secure a vital three points for the North African team.

The victory breathed new life into Libya’s AFCON aspirations, bringing them to 4 points and keeping their qualification hopes alive for their final match.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have qualified for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

See you guys in Casablanca, Rabat, and all the great Moroccan cities.#SoarSuperEagles #AFCONQ2025 #AFCON2025 #BENNGA pic.twitter.com/OwEIl61z7B

— The Athletic NG (@TheAthleticNG) November 14, 2024

Rwanda, now with 5 points, faces a must-win scenario in their final qualifying match against Nigeria on Match Day 6.

READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE! Julius Berger shutdown Godswill Akpabio International Stadium over contract dispute with Akwa Ibom State Government

Tonight, the Super Eagles of Nigeria will take on Gernot Rohr’s Benin Republic, in a match that is crucial for the Cheetahs as they aim to book their place in AFCON 2025.

While Libya’s win has kept their hopes alive, Rwanda now has limited options, needing favorable external results to have any chance of advancing.

Nigeria’s qualification for the tournament in Morocco is a significant achievement, joining the growing list of teams confirmed for the prestigious continental competition.

Source

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are set to face Rwanda in their final AFCON 2025 qualifier on Monday, with Augustine Eguavoen’s side seeking to maintain their unbeaten record.

Despite already securing qualification and top spot in Group D, Eguavoen has the opportunity to join the elite ranks of Super Eagles managers who have guided the team through an unbeaten qualifying campaign.

Rwanda, sitting third in Group D, must defeat Nigeria and hope Benin falter against Libya to have any chance of qualifying.

This urgency makes the encounter far from a dead-rubber tie. The Amavubi will approach the game with intensity, knowing their qualification hopes hang in the balance.

READ MORE: Libya begs Nigeria to win Rwanda

Eguavoen is likely to shift from the conservative 3-4-3 formation to a more dynamic 4-3-3 setup. The predicted lineup includes Maduka Okoye in goal, defended by Bright Osayi-Samuel, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Bruno Onyemaechi.

Frank Onyeka, Alhassan Yusuf, and Alex Iwobi will form the midfield trio, while Moses Simon, Victor Boniface, and Samuel Chukwueze lead the attack.

Victor Osimhen’s injury doubt has paved the way for Victor Boniface to step up as central striker. Ademola Lookman’s absence and Ola Aina’s return to England also create opportunities for other players to showcase their skills.

Victor Boniface will step up to fill in the boots of Victor osimhen

Key players to watch include Maduka Okoye, whose sharp reflexes and confidence will be crucial in goal.

Alex Iwobi’s creative vision and link-up play will be vital in unlocking Rwanda’s defense. Moses Simon’s impactful cameo against Benin earns him a starting berth, and his pace and skill will be essential on the wing.

While Rwanda will fight for a historic win, Nigeria’s superior quality and depth should shine through.

Super Eagles are top of group D with 11 points

Eguavoen’s tactical adjustments and standout talents make the Super Eagles strong favorites. Victory would maintain Nigeria’s unbeaten record and set a positive tone for next year’s continental challenge in Morocco.

Kickoff is at 5:00 PM WAT on Monday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Source

Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali shared the heartbreaking news of his father’s passing on social media late Thursday, just moments after playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Benin in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 Qualifiers in Abidjan.

In a poignant Instagram story, the 27-year-old expressed his sorrow with a simple but powerful message: “RIP DAD.”

READ MORE: EXCLUSIVE! Julius Berger shutdown Godswill Akpabio International Stadium over contract dispute with Akwa Ibom State Government

Stanley Nwabali, who plays for Chippa United, had just helped Nigeria secure a valuable point against Benin, keeping the Super Eagles unbeaten in Group D after Matchday 5. The Super Eagles initially fell behind when Tijani Mohammed’s header gave Benin the lead in the 16th minute. However, Victor Osimhen responded with a late header to level the score.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!

Following the announcement, the goalkeeper has been met with an outpouring of condolences from teammates, friends, and supporters around the world, offering their sympathy and support during this challenging time.

Looking ahead, the Super Eagles are set to face Rwanda in Uyo, although Nwabali’s involvement in the upcoming qualifiers remains uncertain as he navigates this personal loss.

Source

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has withdrawn from Nigeria’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Rwanda, scheduled for Monday.

This development comes as unwelcome news for Coach Augustine Eguavoen, who had been counting on the experience of the Nottingham Forest defender.

The Athletic.ng had learnt that Aina returned to England due to difficulties and fatigue experienced during the Super Eagles’ match against the Benin Republic. This decision was likely made to ensure the player’s safety and well-being, as well as to prevent further injury.

Aina’s absence will undoubtedly be felt on the pitch, given his impressive performances for the Super Eagles. His versatility and experience have been invaluable assets to the team, particularly in the left-back position.

READ MORE: Super Eagles Stanley Nwabali announces fathers death after win vs Benin Republic 

The defender’s ability to read the game, combined with his defensive prowess, has been crucial in Nigeria’s quest for qualification.

With Aina unavailable, per reports, Nasarawa United defender Victor Collins is expected to step in as a replacement, offering the youngster an opportunity to shine.

Coach Eguavoen faces a selection headache, but the Super Eagles’ depth and talent should help mitigate Aina’s absence.

The coach will need to reassess his strategy and make adjustments to ensure the team’s defensive solidity remains intact. This may involve tweaking the team’s formation or assigning new roles to existing players.

Monday’s match against Rwanda takes on added significance, as the Super Eagles seek to consolidate their position atop Group D.

Nigeria with the 1:1 draw against Benin Republic had qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Fans and teammates alike will be hoping for Aina’s swift recovery, as his presence will be crucial in the Super Eagles’ quest for glory at the main competition.

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has not provided a timeline for Aina’s return, but sources indicate he will undergo further evaluation in England.

Nigeria has already secured its spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and will rely on their collective strength to overcome Rwanda and maintain their momentum. The team’s resilience and determination have been key factors in their success thus far, and they will be counting on these qualities to overcome Aina’s absence.

The Super Eagles will face Rwanda on Monday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo and fans will be eagerly awaiting the matchup, hoping for a convincing victory.

Source

Chippa United and Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali may be given a rest from the goalpost on Monday when the Super Eagles of Nigeria face off against Rwanda in their final AFCON qualifiers Group D match at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

The Chippa United shot-stopper had taken to his X handle to announce the demise of his father shortly after the draw with Benin Republic on Thursday.

Stanley Nwabali

Reports reaching The Athletic.ng confirm that the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper may be given a one-match rest to mourn his father by Coach Austin Eguavoen, and Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye will likely replace him.

READ MORE: Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali announces father’s death after draw with Benin Republic

Maduka’s return to goalkeeping responsibilities will mark his first appearance for Nigeria since the 2022 World Cup qualifiers, ending a two-year hiatus.

Meanwhile, Ola Aina has returned to England from Ivory Coast after the Benin Republic match and will not participate in the Rwanda game. Aina’s absence, coupled with Nwabali’s bereavement, presents Coach Augustine Eguavoen with selection challenges.

The coach must now reassess his strategy and make adjustments to ensure the team’s defensive cohesion.

Okoye’s return provides an opportunity for him to reclaim his spot in the team. His experience and skill will be invaluable in ensuring the Super Eagles’ defensive solidity remains intact.

With Nigeria already qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, this match serves as a chance for Okoye to regain momentum and prove himself.

Coach Augustine Eguavoen faces a selection dilemma due to the absence of Nwabali and Aina. However, the Super Eagles’ depth should mitigate their absence.

The coach will need to reassess his strategy and make adjustments to ensure the team’s defensive cohesion. This may involve tweaking the team’s formation or assigning new roles to existing players. Monday’s match against Rwanda holds significance despite Nigeria’s qualification.

The Super Eagles seek to maintain momentum and consolidate their position atop Group D. Rwanda, eager to spoil Nigeria’s party, will present a formidable challenge. The match promises to be an exciting encounter.

The Super Eagles have demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the qualifiers. With Okoye’s return and the team’s collective strength, Nigeria is well-equipped to overcome Rwanda. The team’s defensive solidity and attacking prowess make them favorites to win.

Despite key player absences, the team’s depth and talent should ensure a convincing victory against Rwanda. With Okoye’s return, Nigeria is poised to end the qualifying campaign on a high note.

Nigeria’s focus now shifts to the main tournament, where they will seek to make a lasting impact. With Okoye’s return and the team’s collective strength, the Super Eagles are poised for success.

Source

Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has joined Ola Aina and Stanley Nwabali in the list of first team players to miss Nigeria’s clash with Rwanda on Monday.

The 27-year-old winger suffered a knock during the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw against Benin Republic on Thursday night.

Lookman was released from camp on Saturday night and has returned to his Serie A club, Atalanta, for further treatment on the injury.

Aina sustained a minor injury against Benin Republic, while Nwabali was granted permission to leave camp following the death of his father. The absence of these key players presents Coach Augustine Eguavoen with selection challenges.

READ MORE: After Ola Aina, another key Super Eagles player to miss Rwanda clash

Nigeria, already qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, seeks to maintain momentum and consolidate their position atop Group D. Rwanda, eager to spoil Nigeria’s party, will present a formidable challenge.

Despite the setbacks, the Super Eagles’ depth should mitigate the absence of Lookman, Aina, and Nwabali. Coach Eguavoen will reassess his strategy, possibly tweaking formations or assigning new roles to existing players.

Maduka Okoye, returning from a two-year hiatus, is poised to replace Nwabali in goal. Okoye’s experience and skill will be invaluable in ensuring the Super Eagles’ defensive solidity remains intact.

The match against Rwanda holds significance, as Nigeria aims to end the qualifying campaign on a high note. The Super Eagles have demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the qualifiers.

With Okoye’s return and the team’s collective strength, Nigeria is well-equipped to overcome Rwanda. The team’s defensive solidity and attacking prowess make them favorites to win.

Nigeria’s focus now shifts to the main tournament, where they will seek to make a lasting impact. With a strong squad and Coach Eguavoen’s tactical acumen, the Super Eagles are poised for success.

The Super Eagles will look to conclude their qualifying campaign on a positive note, despite the absence of key players. With their depth and talent, Nigeria is confident of securing a convincing victory against Rwanda.

Source

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has shared his thoughts on equaling Rashidi Yekini’s Super Eagles all-time scoring record.

When asked about surpassing Yekini’s record, Osimhen humbly stated, “No, no, I really don’t care about this now. I just want to do my job and try to win games, score goals, and provide a lot of assists for my team.”

Osimhen’s focus on the collective goal is admirable, but the lure of Yekini’s record is undeniable. With 37 goals in 58 appearances, Yekini’s legacy has stood the test of time. Osimhen currently sits 14 goals behind, with 23 goals in 37 games.

READ MORE: Why Ademola Lookman is ruled out of Nigeria vs Rwanda clash

“And then if I equal it, I equal it; if I surpass it, I surpass it,” Osimhen added. “But that doesn’t take away the fact that Rashidi Yekini is the greatest striker the Super Eagles have ever had.”

Osimhen acknowledged the significance of Yekini’s record, which has been unchallenged for a long time. “Rashidi Yekini’s record has been there for a very long time, and I think we need to honor his legacy,” Osimhen emphasized.

Despite the temptation of individual glory, Osimhen remains committed to the team’s success. His dedication is a testament to the values instilled in the Super Eagles under Coach Augustine Eguavoen.

Rashidi Yekini is the Super Eagles all time leading goalscorer with 37 goals

For Osimhen, the journey to potentially eclipsing Yekini’s record begins with the upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifiers. With Nigeria already qualified, the focus shifts to maintaining momentum and consolidating their position atop Group D.

Osimhen takes to the pitch and his eyes will be on the prize – securing victories for the Super Eagles. “Rashidi Yekini’s record is a big challenge, but I’m focused on doing my best for the team,” Osimhen emphasized.

With his sights set on greatness, Victor Osimhen embodies the spirit of Nigerian football. As he inches closer to Yekini’s record, one thing is certain – Osimhen’s legacy will be forged on the principles of teamwork, dedication, and a passion for the beautiful game.

Nigeria faces Rwanda in their final AFCON 2025 qualifier on Monday, with Osimhen leading the charge. The Super Eagles aim to conclude their qualifying campaign on a high note.

Source

Libya’s senior national team has made a heartfelt appeal to Nigeria’s Super Eagles, urging them to defeat Rwanda. This plea comes as Libya’s qualification hopes hinge on Nigeria’s result.

Libya’s surprising 1-0 victory over Rwanda in the previous round solidified Nigeria’s spot in the AFCON tournament, effectively rendering the Super Eagles’ encounter against Rwanda a formality.

However, Libya’s fate remains uncertain, and their players are keenly aware of the importance of Nigeria’s result. A win for Rwanda would dash Libya’s qualification hopes, regardless of their outcome against Benin Republic.

To secure their place in the AFCON tournament, Libya must win their upcoming game against Benin by a margin of at least four unanswered goals. This daunting task is compounded by Benin Republic’s requirement of just a draw to qualify.

The complexity of the qualifying scenario is further underscored by the fact that Benin’s fate also rests on the outcome of the Nigeria-Rwanda clash.

READ MORE: Victor Osimhen shares thoughts on equalling Rashidi Yekini’s Super Eagles record

In a live broadcast leading up to the decisive match, players from Libya’s national team made an emotional plea to the Super Eagles. They asked Nigeria to put forth a strong performance and avoid defeat against Rwanda, emphasizing their confidence in their ability to achieve the necessary result against Benin.

This appeal is not just about Libya’s qualification hopes but also a testament to the camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines African football.

It is worth noting that this appeal comes after a contentious incident earlier in the qualifiers.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) awarded Nigeria three points and three goals following a botched away fixture against Libya, where the Nigerian team was left stranded at the airport without food, water, or internet access for 16 hours.

Source