Tag: General Sports

Luton Town’s newest signing, Victor Moses, made a stunning impact on Friday, scoring his first goal in England in six years against Plymouth Argyle.

The former Chelsea and Super Eagles star’s strike, although ultimately a consolation in a 3-1 loss, marked a memorable moment in his return to English football.

Moses’ last goal in England came in 2018 for Chelsea against Burnley. Since then, he has had stints in various leagues, including the Italian Serie A and Russian Premier League.

His return to England with Luton Town has sparked excitement, and his goal against Plymouth Argyle demonstrated his enduring
quality.

READ MORE: NPFL match day 4 review: surprises and thrilling encounters

The 32-year-old Nigerian international was introduced as a substitute in the 58th minute, replacing Mads Juel Andersen. It took Moses just 13 minutes to make his mark, showcasing his clinical finishing ability.

Alfie Doughty’s pinpoint pass from the far left found Moses, who expertly controlled the ball before unleashing a left-footed strike that beat goalkeeper Daniel Grimshaw.

Luton Town manager, Rob Edwards, praised Moses’ impact, saying: “Victor brought a different dimension to our attack. His goal was exceptional, and it’s clear he’s still got it. We’re delighted to have him on board.”

The goal marks a significant milestone in Moses’ revitalized career. After struggling to find consistency in recent years, he appears rejuvenated and determined to make a lasting impact in English football.

Luton Town’s aspirations for promotion will be bolstered by Moses’ presence. With his experience and quality, the team will look to push for a top-six finish in the Championship.

Upcoming Fixtures

Luton Town faces a crucial test against Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday, followed by a clash with Coventry City on Saturday.

Match Stats

– Luton Town 1 (Victor Moses 71′)
– Plymouth Argyle 3
– Attendance: 10,055
– Venue: Kenilworth Road Stadium
– Referee: Thomas Bramall

Player Profile

Victor Moses

– Age: 32
– Nationality: Nigerian
– Position: Winger/Attacking Midfielder

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Ikorodu City FC’s ThankGod Chilaka made history on Saturday, September 28, 2024, by scoring the club’s first-ever goal in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

However, his strike was not enough to secure victory as Nasarawa United edged them 2-1 at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.

Chilaka, on loan from Nationwide League side Nordic Football Academy, impressed with his performances, and his well-placed header from Waliu Ojeyote’s cross marked a significant milestone for the Lagos-based club.

READ MORE: Why Osimhen may miss Nigeria vs Libya AFCON qualifiers cracker

“I’m delighted to score Ikorodu City’s first NPFL goal,” Chilaka said in a post-match interview. “But it’s disappointing we didn’t get the win. We’ll keep working hard to turn our season around.”

Despite Chilaka’s efforts, Ikorodu City suffered their fourth consecutive defeat, leaving them winless and rooted to the bottom of the table.

Nasarawa United took the lead just before halftime through Anas Yusuf’s finish.

After Chilaka’s equalizer, Nasarawa United regained the advantage through Kabir Balogun’s brilliant free-kick, securing their first win of the season.

Ikorodu City’s inability to convert chances and close out games has been their downfall. Ayomide Cole and Chilaka both had opportunities to score more, but Nasarawa United’s goalkeeper made crucial saves.

“We created enough chances to win, but we didn’t take them,” Ikorodu City coach, Henry Makinwa, said. “We’ll work on our finishing and look to bounce back against Plateau United.”

The defeat leaves Ikorodu City in a precarious position, seeking their first win in Nigeria’s top division.

Their next match is against Plateau United in Jos, where they will hope to secure their first points and climb out of the danger zone.

“Ikorodu City’s struggles continue, and it’s clear they need to work on converting chances and closing out games,” said football analyst, Tunde Adelakun.

“Chilaka’s goal was a positive, but they must build on that momentum.”

Match Stats

– Ikorodu City FC: ThankGod Chilaka (65′)
– Nasarawa United: Anas Yusuf (45′), Kabir Balogun (75′)

Player Ratings

– ThankGod Chilaka (Ikorodu City): 7.5/10
– Waliu Ojeyote (Ikorodu City): 6.5/10
– Anas Yusuf (Nasarawa United): 7/10
– Kabir Balogun (Nasarawa United): 7.5/10

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Kano Pillars technical adviser, Usman Abdallah, has commended the Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) organisers for ensuring effective competitions among teams.

Abdallah also praised the referees for officiating matches fairly, enabling away teams to compete without fear.

“Kudos to the organisers of the league for putting in so much effort to see that we are where we are right now,” Abdallah told Kano Pillars media.

“This is the best thing to ever happen to our league, as away clubs can now play comfortably, and as we’ve seen many times this season, they come out victorious.”

READ MORE: ThankGod Chilaka’s historic goal not enough as Ikorodu City falls to Nasarawa United

Abdallah’s comments come after Kano Pillars suffered their first home defeat against Remo Stars in a matchday three encounter last weekend. Despite the loss, Abdallah remains optimistic about his team’s chances.

“We lost our last home match against Remo Stars, but we can go anywhere and secure the maximum points because of the improvement in officiating,” he said.

The NPFL has witnessed significant growth in recent seasons, with teams competing fiercely for the title. The league’s improved competitiveness can be attributed to the organisers’ efforts and the referees’ fairness.

Kano pillars

Abdallah’s praise reflects the positive sentiment among coaches and players, acknowledging the league’s progress. Other coaches have also commended the NPFL’s organisers for creating a level playing field.

“I think the NPFL has made tremendous progress,” said Rivers United coach, Stanley Eguma. “The competition is getting fiercer, and teams are getting more confident.”

Kano Pillars will face Abia Warriors in their next league game at the Umuahia Township Stadium on Sunday.

Abdallah will likely deploy a 4-3-3 formation against Abia Warriors, utilizing Rabiu Ali’s creativity in midfield.

“Rabiu Ali is a key player for us,” Abdallah said. “He brings experience and skill to our midfield.”

Abia Warriors coach, Imama Amapakabo, will look to exploit Kano Pillars’ defensive vulnerabilities.

“We’ve studied Kano Pillars’ games, and we know their strengths and weaknesses,” Amapakabo said.

NPFL fans can expect an intense clash between two top teams.

The match will be broadcast live on NPFL TV and various local stations.

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Nasarawa United forward Kabiru Balogun has set his sights on a successful season, following his team’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ikorodu City on Saturday.

Balogun, who scored one of the goals, emphasized the importance of the win in setting up a positive campaign.

“We really worked hard for the victory over Ikorodu City,” Balogun told the media in Lagos.

“We had the belief that the maximum point is non-negotiable against Ikorodu City in Lagos.” The hardworking attacker’s goal sealed the win for Nasarawa United, and he acknowledged its significance.

READ MORE: What Kano Pillars coach Abdallah said about NPFL Organisers, Referees

“Scoring the final goal and getting the maximum points on the road will set Nasarawa United up for a positive campaign,” Balogun added.

The Solid Miners’ victory over Ikorodu City marks a turning point in their season. Balogun’s goal, combined with Anas Yusuf’s earlier strike, secured Nasarawa United’s first win of the season.

Coach Dogo’s tactics paid off, and the team’s determination earned them three crucial points.

“I’m delighted with the team’s performance,” Dogo said. “We showed character and resilience to grind out the win.”

Balogun praised his teammates for their collective effort. “It was a team effort,” Balogun said. “Everyone played their part, and we deserved the win.

” Nasarawa United will face their next opponent in the league, looking to build on their momentum.

Balogun’s goal against Ikorodu City highlights his growing importance to Nasarawa United’s attack.

“Kabiru Balogun is a key player for us,” Dogo said. “His work rate and finishing ability make him a valuable asset.”

Nasarawa United currently sits fourth in the NPFL standings. The team’s stats include a 2-1 win over Ikorodu City and Balogun’s 1 goal, 1 assist in the last 2 games.

Coach Dogo’s 4-2-3-1 formation allowed Nasarawa United to dominate possession and create scoring opportunities. “Our strategy worked perfectly,” Dogo said. “We controlled the game and took our chances.

” Ikorodu City coach Henry Makinwa acknowledged Nasarawa United’s superiority. “Nasarawa United deserved the win,” Makinwa said. “We created chances but couldn’t convert them.”

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After leading Sunshine Stars to a hard-fought away win over Akwa United, head coach Kennedy Boboye, represented by his assistant has already set his sights on their next challenge — another away fixture against Kano Pillars.

The Akure-based team secured a rare 2-1 victory at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday. Goals from Chinedu Nwosu and Seth Mayi sealed the win, and Boboye was quick to shift attention to their upcoming match.

READ MORE: Rangers to fine Kazeem Ogunleye for red card against Ikorodu City

“After the last match against Abia Warriors, we told the players to put the result behind them and focus on today’s match,” Boboye told the club’s media. “To God be the glory, we were able to coast home with maximum points.”

Boboye emphasised the importance of moving forward, saying, “Today’s match is done and dusted. We are now focusing on our next game, another away tie against Kano Pillars in Katsina.”

Sunshine Stars will face Kano Pillars at the Muhammad Dikko Stadium in Katsina, with hopes of continuing their strong form on the road.

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Nigerian midfielder Wilfred Ndidi became the subject of social media buzz after scoring an own goal in Leicester City’s 4-2 Premier League defeat to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.

Despite a strong comeback from Leicester in the second half, Ndidi’s unfortunate deflection in the dying moments gave Arsenal the advantage they needed to secure all three points.

The match saw the Gunners take an early lead through Gabriel Martinelli, who finished Jurrien Timber’s cross to open the scoring. Arsenal doubled their advantage just before halftime, with Martinelli turning provider for Leandro Trossard’s goal, leaving Leicester with an uphill battle.

Leicester City responded early in the second half when James Justin’s header, from a Facundo Buonanotte free kick, deflected off Kai Havertz and into the net, giving the Foxes a lifeline.

READ MORE: Flying Eagles coach to bank on NPFL stars amid struggles

Justin’s second goal of the game, assisted by Ndidi’s precise ball, levelled the score in the 62nd minute, raising hopes of a Leicester comeback.

However, Arsenal regained control in stoppage time. In the 94th minute, Trossard’s shot was inadvertently diverted into the net by Ndidi, putting Arsenal 3-2 ahead. Just minutes later, Havertz sealed the game with a close-range finish to hand the Gunners a hard-fought victory.

The defeat leaves Leicester City struggling to close the gap at the top of the table, while Arsenal’s win brings them level on points with Manchester City as the Premier League title race intensifies.

Ndidi’s performance became a hot topic on social media, with fans praising his contribution to Leicester’s equalizer but lamenting the own goal that ultimately tipped the game in Arsenal’s favor. Some rival fans expressed frustration, while others acknowledged the Nigerian midfielder’s overall efforts in a challenging encounter.

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Wisdom Ndon scored a late consolation goal in  Akwa United’s 2:1 loss to Sunshine Stars of Akure at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium today.

The lose prolonged their winless streak this season in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

The Promise Keepers, currently 13th in the NPFL standings, were seeking to bounce back from their recent struggles. However, Sunshine Stars had other plans.

W. J. Ndon scored for Akwa United in the 83rd minute, but it was too little, too late. Sunshine Stars’ C. Nwosu (19′) and S. M. Ademe (81′) had already sealed the victory for the visitors.

Akwa United defender Wisdom Ndon scored the consolation goal in the 83rd minutes

Akwa United’s coach, Baba Ganaru, will be disappointed with his team’s performance. Despite creating scoring opportunities, they failed to capitalize. The defeat highlights the team’s struggles in front of goal.

READ MORE: Super Eagles midfielder Wilfred Ndidi trends after scoring own goal in Leicester City’s defeat to Arsenal

The loss leaves Akwa United in 13th position with two points from three matches. Sunshine Stars, on the other hand, move up the standings with their second win of the season.

Sunshine Stars are currently 3rd on the NPFL’ log with 7 points gannered from 4 games this season.

Akwa United will look to regroup and bounce back in their next match.

The Promise Keepers must improve their attacking prowess to challenge for the top spots.

Player Ratings

– Ubong Friday: 6/10
– Jean Efala: 5/10
– Cyril Chinedu Olisema: 6/10
– Edidiong Ezekiel Enobong: 5/10

“We created chances, but failed to take them. We’ll work on our finishing and come back stronger.” Ganaru said after the match

Match Statistics

– Possession: Akwa United 55% – 45% Sunshine Stars
– Shots on Target: Akwa United 6 – 8 Sunshine Stars
– Corners: Akwa United 4 – 3 Sunshine Stars

Will Akwa United turn their season around, or will their struggles continue? Stay tuned for more NPFL action

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The 2024/2025 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season continued with exciting matches on Matchday 4, with Nasarawa United and Sunshine Stars recording impressive away victories.

These wins have significant implications for the teams’ standings and momentum in the league.

Nasarawa United, also known as the Solid Miners, traveled to the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Onikan, Lagos, where they defeated Ikorodu City FC 2-1.

This win marked the second consecutive home loss for the Oga Boys, highlighting their struggles to perform in front of their fans.

READ MORE: Wisdom Ndon with the consolation goal as Akwa United lose at home to Sunshine Stars

Nasarawa United’s victory demonstrates their determination to succeed in the NPFL and will undoubtedly boost their confidence.

In another thrilling encounter, Sunshine Stars stunned Akwa United with a 2-1 victory at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

This win maintains Sunshine Stars’ fine start to the campaign, showcasing their impressive form and ability to secure crucial away wins. Akwa United, on the other hand, will look to regroup and bounce back from this disappointing loss.

The outcomes of these matches will have a significant impact on the NPFL standings. Nasarawa United’s win propels them up the table, while Ikorodu City FC’s consecutive home losses raise concerns about their ability to compete.

Sunshine Stars’ victory, meanwhile, solidifies their position among the league’s top teams, while Akwa United’s loss keeps them in a precarious position.

More action will continue on Sunday across different centers in the league. Fans can expect intense battles as teams seek to improve their positions in the NPFL standings.

With several matches still to be played, the league table is likely to undergo significant changes in the coming weeks.

Nasarawa United’s away win against Ikorodu City FC demonstrates their ability to adapt and perform under pressure.

They will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches. Sunshine Stars’ fine form, meanwhile, raises expectations about their potential to challenge for the top spots in the NPFL.

Matchday 4 of the NPFL has provided exciting moments, and fans can expect more thrilling encounters as the season progresses.

The league’s competitiveness and unpredictability make it an engaging spectacle for football enthusiasts. Stay tuned for updates, results, and analysis from the NPFL.

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Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen’s impressive performance for Galatasaray was cut short last night as he suffered a minor injury scare during the team’s 3-3 draw against Kasimpasa.

Osimhen, on loan from Napoli, scored twice in the first half to give Galatasaray a commanding lead.

However, his evening took a worrying turn early in the second half when he signaled to the bench, requesting a substitution after a challenge forced him off the pitch.

Despite briefly returning to the field after receiving medical attention, Osimhen was eventually replaced by Dries Mertens.

READ MORE: Getafe President finally responds to Chrisantus Uche’s racism claims

Reports suggest he felt slight pain after being pushed off the pitch, raising concerns about the extent of the injury.

The Super Eagles star is set to undergo a medical evaluation today, and if tests reveal no lesion, Osimhen could return to action after just three days of rest.

However, if the injury proves more serious, he may face a two-week recovery period.

The uncertainty surrounding Osimhen’s fitness has cast doubt over his availability for Galatasaray’s upcoming domestic and Europa League fixtures, as well as Nigeria’s crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Libya.

“Victor Osimhen’s injury is a significant concern for both Galatasaray and the Nigerian national team,” said football analyst, Tunde Adelakun.

Victor osimhen scored twice in Galatasaray’s draw with kasimpasa

“His goalscoring ability and physical presence will be sorely missed if he’s unable to recover quickly.”

Galatasaray’s medical team will be working tirelessly to assess the extent of Osimhen’s injury and develop a rehabilitation plan.

“We are monitoring Victor’s condition closely and will do everything possible to ensure his swift recovery,” said Galatasaray’s manager, Okan Buruk.

Nigerian fans took to social media to express their concern and well-wishes for Osimhen’s recovery.

“Get well soon, Victor! Nigeria needs you,” tweeted @SuperEaglesFan.

“Hope it’s not too serious. Galatasaray needs you, Victor!” commented @GalatasarayFan on Instagram.

The football world waits with bated breath for updates on Osimhen’s condition. The Athletic.ng will provide live updates and breaking news on the Nigerian striker’s recovery.

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In an exciting Premier League clash, Fulham secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, thanks to the contributions of Super Eagles stars Calvin Bassey and Alex Iwobi.

The match saw four Nigerian players take to the pitch, with Bassey and Iwobi representing Fulham, while Taiwo Awoniyi and Ola Aina started for Nottingham Forest.

Fulham dominated the early proceedings, with Nottingham Forest adopting a counter-attacking approach. Awoniyi had a promising chance to score in the 19th minute, but his volley sailed wide.

READ MORE: Why Osimhen may miss Nigeria vs Libya AFCON qualifiers cracker

The first half ended goalless, prompting Nottingham Forest coach Nuno Espirito Santo to substitute Awoniyi for Anthony Elanga. However, this change failed to yield the desired attacking edge.

Just three minutes into the second half, Fulham was awarded a penalty, which Raul Jimenez converted with ease to give his side the lead.

Iwobi had a golden opportunity to double Fulham’s advantage in the 61st minute, but his strike was blocked by a defender. Despite their efforts, Nottingham Forest struggled to create scoring opportunities.

Aina delivered a decent performance, but his attacking prowess was limited. In contrast, Bassey was solid at the back for Fulham, helping to secure the clean sheet.

The 1-0 victory marks a significant win for Fulham, with Bassey and Iwobi playing crucial roles in their team’s success.

“Fulham’s victory was well-deserved, and Bassey and Iwobi were instrumental in their team’s win,” said football analyst, Tunde Adelakun. “Their performances showcased the quality and depth of Nigerian talent in the Premier League.

Player Ratings

– Calvin Bassey (Fulham): 7.5/10
– Alex Iwobi (Fulham): 7.5/10
– Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest): 6.5/10
– Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest): 6/10

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