Tag: General Sports

Coach Austin Eguavoen announced his Super Eagles squad for the upcoming AFCON qualifiers group D double header with Benin and Benin Republic which got eyes rolling due to the inclusion of some seemingly undeserving names and the omission of some players who are currently doing well for their clubs.

Coach Austin Eguavoen invited Gabriel Osho, Victor Collins, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Sadiq Umar even amidst their current dip in form and individual performances for their respective clubs this season.

Super Eagles star Kelechi Iheanacho is yet to score for new club Sevilla CF

Kelechi Iheanacho’s struggles at Sevilla continues as the forward’s dip in form has cost him a starting spot for Sevilla. Iheanacho is yet to score or assist this season.

Sadiq Umar is another recalled player with a disappointing stat this season. The 27-year-old tall Nigerian forward who joined Real Sociedad since 2022 has played 6 matches this season in the La Liga with no goals or assists, played 2 Europa League games with zero goals.

READ MORE: Bassey and Iwobi shine as Fulham defeat Aina and Awoniyi’s Nottingham Forest

The invitation of Gabriel Osho and Victor Collins have also left many stunned. Those are names nobody is hearing anywhere in the world and they may likely not have minutes in the star-studded Super Eagles squad.

Meanwhile, deserving players continue to be overlooked. Cyriel Dessers, Rangers’ prolific striker with 9 goals, remains ignored.

Snubbed super Eagles forward Cyril Dessers has scored 9 goals this season

Leon Balogun, a regular starter for Rangers, and Kevin Akpoguma, a solid defender in the German league, have been consistently snubbed.

Victor Olatunji’s impressive Champions League performances and Jordan Torunarigha’s defensive prowess for Gent also warrant recognition.

This disconnect between form and selection undermines the Super Eagles’ potential. Coach Eguavoen must prioritize merit over sentiment.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face Benin Republic and Rwanda this weekend in an highly anticipated AFCON group D qualifiers.

Nigeria currently sit top of the group with 10 points with their next opponents Benin Republic and Rwanda sitting 2nd and 3rd on the log .

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Kano Pillars forward Ahmed Musa has strongly criticised Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match officials, calling them “moral killers” after their handling of Sunday’s Matchday 9 fixture between Nasarawa United and Kano Pillars at the Lafia City Stadium. 

The former Leicester City star took particular issue with centre referee Dahiru Muhammed Kawo and assistant referee Abdulmajid Sani Potiskum for allowing a disputed goal, where two Nasarawa United players, including the scorer, appeared to be in offside positions.

“I’ve been praising the officiating and the progress in the league up until now, but the performance of the officials in this Matchday 9 game makes me wonder if coming back to play in the NPFL was the right choice,” Musa remarked.

Musa, Nigeria’s all-time FIFA World Cup top scorer, recently returned to his boyhood club, Kano Pillars, alongside fellow Super Eagles player Shehu Abdullahi. The forward warned that poor officiating might discourage other national players from finishing their careers in Nigeria’s top division.

Kano Pillars forward Ahmed Musa against Akwa United in the NPFL (Image credit: Getty Images)

“If I keep witnessing such officiating, I cannot encourage anyone to return to the NPFL. It would be a waste of our efforts if this continues,” Musa added.

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Choosing to play in the NPFL over several foreign offers, Musa expressed his ambition to help elevate the league to European standards but insisted that the current officiating does not reflect a league that takes itself seriously. “I wanted to help elevate the NPFL to European standards. But with officiating like what I saw in Lafia, it doesn’t reflect a serious league,” he said.

Kano Pillars’ Technical Advisor, Usman Abdallah, echoed Musa’s frustrations, questioning why the game wasn’t broadcast live as scheduled on StarTimes, with no prior explanation for the change.

“With officiating like what we experienced in Lafia, the NPFL will struggle to progress,” Abdallah added.

The match concluded with Kano Pillars falling 1-0 to Nasarawa United. They will now look to bounce back as they face Plateau United in their upcoming Matchday 10 fixture.

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The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) have fined Enyimba ₦1 million for making “inappropriate” comments on the club’s social media following their recent victory. Along with the fine, the NPFL issued a stern warning to the Aba-based club, stressing the need for professionalism to uphold Nigerian football’s image.

The incident occurred after Enyimba’s post-match reaction to their hard-fought 1-0 win over Ikorodu City on Matchday 9 at the Enyimba Stadium. While celebrating the victory, Enyimba’s comments on social media regarding officiating were flagged by league officials as violating NPFL’s standards. The league’s statement noted that the club’s remarks had breached specific rules, prompting disciplinary action.

The NPFL stated that Enyimba’s posts on their official handle on X were “disparaging” and potentially damaging to the league’s reputation. “Such comments are capable of bringing the game into disrepute,” the league emphasised, underscoring the importance of respectful communication from all teams.

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Alongside the fine, the NPFL warned Enyimba that similar behaviour in the future would attract even stricter penalties. The league advised the club to use official channels to address any grievances about officiating or other issues, urging that feedback be shared respectfully to prevent harm to the league’s public image.

Enyimba have the option to appeal the decision within 48 hours of receiving the notice, allowing the club an opportunity to challenge the fine or seek leniency. As one of Nigeria’s most respected football clubs, Enyimba now faces a decision on how best to respond while taking into account the NPFL’s call for professionalism in conduct and communication.

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Nigeria caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen has faced intense criticism for including out-of-form striker Kelechi Iheanacho in the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Libya.

Iheanacho, who has not scored for both club and country this year, was preferred over in-form Nigerian forwards Cyriel Dessers and Tolu Arokodare.

Dessers, Rangers’ top scorer with seven goals this season, and Arokodare, who has netted six goals for Belgian side Genk, were both overlooked despite their impressive performances.

Eguavoen justified his decision, emphasizing Iheanacho’s experience as the primary factor.

“I looked at both Cyriel Dessers and Tolu Arokodare, but opted for Kelechi this time because he is the more experienced striker,” Eguavoen explained.

READ MORE: Enyimba closes in on Rivers United after 3:0 crushing of Katsina United

Iheanacho’s international record boasts 15 goals for Nigeria, including appearances in major tournaments like the FIFA World Cup and multiple AFCON campaigns.

However, critics argue that form should take precedence over experience, especially considering Iheanacho’s drought.

Dessers last featured for Nigeria in March and hasn’t received a call-up since. Arokodare was widely expected to earn his first international cap after a strong season with Genk.

Cyril Dessers has been snubbed for kelechi Iheanacho in the released Super eagles squad for Libya clash

Their exclusions have sparked debate among Nigerian football fans, with many questioning Eguavoen’s squad choices.

“The coach should prioritize players in top form,” said Emmanuel, a Nigerian football enthusiast. “Dessers and Arokodare have proven themselves this season, while Iheanacho has struggled.”

With Victor Osimhen ruled out due to injury, the spotlight shines brighter on Iheanacho to deliver.

Nigeria’s upcoming matches against Libya are crucial, and Eguavoen’s decisions will be scrutinized.

“The coach must balance experience with form and potential, ensuring the Super Eagles field their strongest lineup,” said football analyst, Samson Omoto.

The Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers unfold and Nigeria’s squad selections will face intense examination.

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Galatasaray star striker Victor Osimhen has provided a positive update on his injury recovery, assuring fans of his return to action after the international break.

The Nigerian international has been sidelined since suffering an injury during Galatasaray’s Super Lig match against Kasımpaşa in week seven.

Osimhen’s absence has been deeply felt, with the team missing his goal-scoring expertise in crucial games. He missed the Europa League clash and the 1-0 win against Alanyaspor in the Super Lig. The injury also ruled him out of Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 qualifying double-header against Libya.

However, Osimhen offered a glimmer of hope to Galatasaray supporters when questioned about his return timeline.

READ MORE: Eguavoen reveals why he included Iheanacho in Super Eagles squad for Libya clash

“After the international break,” Osimhen replied to Beyaz TV when asked when he would resume playing.

Galatasaray will face Antalyaspor away on Saturday, October 19, in the Süper Lig after the international break. Osimhen’s return would significantly bolster the team’s attacking prowess, providing a much-needed boost to their title aspirations.

Osimhen’s injury has significant implications for Nigeria’s AFCON qualifying campaign. The Super Eagles will miss his goal-scoring expertise, but his recovery will prioritize Galatasaray’s interests. 

 Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray reacts during the UEFA Europa League match between Galatasaray and PAOK in Istanbul, Turkey, 25 September 2024. 

As one of the top scorers in the Süper Lig, Osimhen’s absence has been deeply felt. His return will revitalize Galatasaray’s attacking momentum and provide a significant boost to their title aspirations.

“Osimhen’s return will be a massive lift for Galatasaray,” said Turkish football analyst, Emre Sarıgül. “His goal-scoring ability and physical presence will make a significant difference in the Süper Lig.”

Osimhen’s impressive statistics demonstrate his importance to Galatasaray. He has scored 10 goals in 15 appearances this season, with 5 assists in the Süper Lig and 3 goals in 2 Europa League appearances.

Galatasaray fans eagerly await Osimhen’s comeback, anticipating his impactful performances to drive the team forward. The international break provides Osimhen with valuable recovery time.

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The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has approved a budget proposal of N17.6 billion for the 2025 financial year.

This decision was made at the NFF’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Asaba, Delta State. The approved budget is slightly lower than the initially proposed N19.76 billion.

The NFF Congress commended the achievements of Nigeria’s national teams, including the Super Eagles’ silver medal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and the Super Falcons’ participation in the Women’s Olympic Football Tournament after a 16-year absence.

These accomplishments demonstrate the growth and potential of Nigerian football.

READ MORE: Victor Osimhen reveals when he will return to action after Nigeria snub

The NFF has emphasized the need to prioritize grassroots football and talent discovery nationwide, aligning with FIFA’s vision for global football growth.

This initiative aims to identify and nurture young talent, providing opportunities for development and success.

Infrastructure development is another crucial area of focus. The NFF has urged state governments to improve football facilities across the country, ensuring players have access to quality training environments.

Refereeing capacity enhancement, particularly for young talents, is also a priority.

The NFF recognizes the importance of competent referees in maintaining the integrity and competitiveness of Nigerian football.

Coaching courses will be another focus area, aiming to improve the quality of coaching in Nigeria.

This investment in human resources will help develop the skills and expertise necessary for success in the sport.

The Congress approved a one-year extension for PricewaterhouseCoopes as the NFF’s external auditors, ensuring transparency and accountability in financial management.

The NFF has also assured the Federal Government that the Super Eagles will qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With this budget approval, Nigerian football fans can expect exciting developments in the sport next year.

The NFF embarks on its 2025 plans and Nigerian football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the outcomes.

Will the Super Eagles secure qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA World Cup? Only time will tell.

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Emmanuel Amuneke, Heartland’s head coach, expressed immense relief after his team recorded their first NPFL win of the season.

Michael Ogu’s brace sealed a 2-0 victory over Niger Tornadoes on Sunday, lifting Heartland out of the relegation zone.

The Owerri club had endured a tumultuous start to the season, losing three of their first five matches.

However, Amuneke’s tactical adjustments and the team’s determination paid off against Niger Tornadoes.

READ MORE: All 20 NPFL Coaches and their current rating, standing

“I am happy for the players,” Amuneke said in a post-match interview. “We deserved this moment of joy. It has given us a relief, and it will give us the confidence going into our next match against El Kanemi.”

Heartland’s victory propelled them to four points from five matches, easing the pressure on Amuneke and his squad. The former Nigerian international emphasized the importance of this win, citing the team’s renewed confidence.

Emmanuel Amunike

Amuneke’s experience and tactical acumen have been evident in Heartland’s performances, despite the slow start.

The team’s resilience and determination have been commendable, and Sunday’s win was a testament to their hard work.

Michael Ogu’s outstanding display, capped by two goals, underscored the team’s potential. Amuneke will look to build on this momentum, pushing Heartland up the NPFL table.

The NPFL season reaches its near midpoint and teams are jostling for position. Heartland’s win has injected new life into their campaign, while Niger Tornadoes’ loss has raised concerns about their consistency.

Enyimba, meanwhile, continues to impress, with Flying Atule leading the charge. The champions’ recent win over Katsina United has solidified their position among the top contenders.

Ahmed Musa’s sensational return to the NPFL has also grabbed headlines.

The veteran forward has vowed to deliver more impressive performances, bolstering his team’s title aspirations.

Heartland’s next fixture against El Kanemi Warriors promises to be a stern test. Amuneke’s squad will need to replicate Sunday’s performance to secure another crucial win.

The NPFL season unfolds and Nigerian football fans can expect thrilling encounters and surprising twists. Will Heartland build on their momentum, or will other teams surge ahead? Only time will tell.

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Former Everton and Nigeria national team forward, Daniel Amokachi, officially resumed his duties as the new technical adviser of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) side, Lobi Stars, on Monday, October 7, 2024.

Amokachi was appointed on Sunday, October 6, following the dismissal of Eugene Agagbe, who was sacked due to the team’s poor start to the 2024/25 season. Under Agagbe, Lobi Stars recorded only one win, one draw, and three defeats from their opening five matches.

The 51-year-old Amokachi, known for his powerful playing style during his footballing days, led the team in their first training session at the McCarthy Stadium on Monday morning.

READ MORE: Lobi Stars appoint DE BULL as head coach to revive struggling season

The session marked the beginning of an intensive training period as the Makurdi-based club prepares for their upcoming North Central derby against Niger Tornadoes this weekend.

Lobi Stars are currently sitting 17th on the NPFL table, and the club is hoping that Amokachi’s experience will help change their fortunes.

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Super Eagles of Nigeria captain Ahmed Musa was the star of the match as he marked his return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) in style, scoring twice as Kano Pillars secured a 2-0 victory over Sunshine Stars in their matchday five encounter held in Katsina.

Musa, who rejoined Kano Pillars for a third stint earlier this week after months without a club following his time in Turkey, delivered a standout performance. The former Leicester City forward opened the scoring with a brilliant solo effort, driving past three defenders before curling the ball into the net.

In the second half, Musa added a second goal to secure all three points for Kano Pillars. The win was a much-needed boost for Coach Usman Abdallah’s side, who recently also welcomed veteran Super Eagles defender Shehu Abdullahi to strengthen their squad.

Musa’s impressive return to the NPFL highlights his quality and experience, making him a valuable asset for Kano Pillars as they continue their campaign in the domestic league.

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