Tag: General Sports

Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has made headlines in the Europa League, leading SS Lazio to a convincing 3-0 victory over Dynamo Kyiv.

Dele-Bashiru scored Lazio’s second goal in the 33rd minute, expertly finishing a through ball from Matias Vecino. He then turned provider, delivering a pinpoint right-footed cross that Boulaye Dia headed home to seal the win.

Dele-Bashiru’s outstanding performance earned him a spot in WhoScored’s Europa League Team of the Week, alongside top-rated strikers Boulaye Dia and Hugo Ekitike.

READ MORE: NPFL: Finidi, Olarenwaju meet again as Rivers United host Enyimba

Despite his excellent performance for Galatasaray, fellow Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen was notably absent from the Best XI of the week. Osimhen provided a crucial assist in Galatasaray’s 3-1 win over PAOK.

This match marked Dele-Bashiru’s debut in the Europa League, whereas Osimhen made his ninth appearance in the competition.

Super Eagles Dele-Bashiru’ who has been in superb form for Lazio this season has been rewarded with a spot in the Europa League team of the week

Dele-Bashiru and Osimhen’s performances demonstrate the significance of Nigerian players in European competitions.

Dele-Bashiru will hope to emulate and successfully replace former Super Eagles player Onazi who starred for Lazio for more than 4 seasons.

The Europa League continues with matchday two, where Dele-Bashiru and Osimhen will look to build on their impressive starts.

Follow the Europa League action for more updates on Nigerian players making waves in Europe.

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Ghanaian football legend Michael Essien has proudly reflected on his unbeaten record against Nigeria’s Super Eagles, highlighting his memorable performances in their encounters.

In an interview with Joy Sports via Modern Ghana, Essien expressed his satisfaction with never losing a match against Nigeria throughout his illustrious career.

The former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder featured in two matches against the Super Eagles, winning both encounters.

READ MORE: Superb Super Eagles midfielder features in Europa League team of the week

Essien’s most cherished moment came during the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal, where he scored a crucial goal to help Ghana overcome Nigeria 2-1.

This victory remains one of his most treasured experiences in international football.

“My favorite game will be against Nigeria in the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations. I never lost against Nigeria while on the pitch,” Essien proudly stated.

Essien earned 59 caps for Ghana, scoring nine goals and playing a pivotal role in the team’s qualification for their first-ever FIFA World Cup in 2006.

He represented the Black Stars at multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, although injury cut short his participation in the 2010 edition.

Now an assistant coach at FC Nordsjaelland, Essien officially retired from professional football in 2020.

His transition into coaching has been seamless, with the Ghanaian legend imparting his knowledge to the next generation of players.

Essien’s rivalry with Nigeria extends beyond his playing days.

The Ghana-Nigeria football rivalry is one of the most intense in African football, with both nations consistently competing for continental supremacy.

Michael Essien’s legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments.

He remains an iconic figure in Ghanaian football, inspiring future generations with his achievements and dedication to the sport.

Michael Essien’s perfect record against Nigeria’s Super Eagles is a testament to his exceptional skill and competitive spirit.

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Nigeria prepares to face Libya in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and interim coach Augustine Eguavoen is expected to announce his 24-man squad soon.

With several players showcasing exceptional form for their clubs, predictions are underway.

In goal, Stanley Nwabali of Chippa United is likely to retain his position as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, with Maduka Okoye of Udinese providing strong backup. Amas Obasogie is also in contention.

READ MORE: Exposed: One man who has never lost a match to Nigeria

The defensive lineup is expected to feature Tanimu Benjamin, Ola Aina, Bruno Onyemaechi, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Olisa Ndah, and Tosin Adarabioyo. Adarabioyo, the Chelsea player, is poised for his Super Eagles debut, while Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Ajayi, and Ndah are expected to retain their spots.

The midfield will likely consist of Alex Iwobi of Fulham, Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester, Frank Onyeka of Bayer Leverkusen, Raphael Onyedika, Alhassan Yusuf, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Iwobi remains Nigeria’s creative force, while Onyeka and Ndidi’s impressive form makes them strong contenders.

On the wings, Samuel Chukwueze of AC Milan, Ademola Lookman of Atalanta, Moses Simon, and Chidera Ejuke of Sevilla are expected to feature. Lookman’s sensational form secures his spot, while Chukwueze and Simon’s experience keeps them in contention.

Upfront, Cyriel Dessers of Rangers, Victor Osimhen of Galatasaray, Victor Boniface, and Taiwo Awoniyi will lead Nigeria’s attack. Osimhen continues to shine as Nigeria’s focal point in attack, with Boniface and Dessers also in contention.

Nigeria’s clash with Libya will be crucial in maintaining their momentum in the AFCON qualifiers. Eguavoen’s squad selection will be pivotal in securing victories in the upcoming matches.

Predicted 24-man Super Eagles squad:

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Amas Obasogie, Maduka Okoye

Defenders: Tanimu Benjamin, Ola Aina, Bruno Onyemaechi, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Olisa Ndah, Tosin Adarabioyo

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Alhassan Yusuf, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Wingers: Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Chidera Ejuke

Strikers: Cyriel Dessers, Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Taiwo Awoniyi.

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The Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt is set to witness an explosive South-South derby as Rivers United, led by coach Finidi George, takes on Enyimba, coached by his protégé, Yema Olarenwaju, on Matchday 4 of the Nigeria Premier League.

This encounter marks the first meeting between Finidi and Olarenwaju since parting ways at Enyimba.

Finidi handpicked Olarenwaju as his assistant in September 2022, and together, they secured Enyimba’s record-extending 9th Nigeria Premier League title.

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

After Finidi’s resignation in May 2024, Olarenwaju took the reins as interim head coach and later became the permanent head coach in August.

His coaching experience includes stints at Magate FC, MFM FC, the Nigeria U17 national team, and Vandrezzer FC.

Under Olarenwaju, Enyimba has maintained an impressive start to the 2024/25 NPFL season, winning their first two matches and remaining the only Nigerian club left on the continent.

Yemi Olanrenwaju and club chairman Nwankwo Kanu

Finidi, having put the Super Eagles disappointment behind him, has made a flying start to the campaign with Rivers United, winning two and drawing one in three matches, leaving them second on the log with seven points.

The Port Harcourt clash promises to be an intense encounter, with both coaches plotting against each other.

Olarenwaju expressed his excitement, stating, “We’re putting this game behind us and focusing on Rivers United.”

This matchup has all the ingredients of a thriller. With Finidi’s experience and Olarenwaju’s determination, expect a closely contested game. Rivers United’s home advantage may give them the edge.

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Rangers technical adviser Fidelis Ilechukwu has announced that midfielder Kazeem Ogunleye will face disciplinary action for his sending-off in the team’s 1-0 win over Ikorodu City in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) on Wednesday.

Ogunleye received a red card for his unsportsmanlike action in the game at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos. Ilechukwu expressed disappointment over the incident, emphasizing the importance of discipline in the team.

“I’m so sad about it. Sometimes, if you are not disciplined, you pay a big price for it,” Ilechukwu stated. “We won’t only leave Ogunleye out; we are going to punish him. We all know the referee’s decision is final, that is what we have been telling the players.”

The disciplinary action comes as Rangers prepare to face Remo Stars next in the NPFL on Sunday.

READ MORE: What Galatasaray Coach Orkan Buruk said about Victor Osimhen’s goal drought

Ilechukwu warned his players that indiscipline would not be tolerated, stating that the team’s success depends on their ability to maintain discipline on and off the pitch.

Despite Ogunleye’s dismissal, Rangers secured a 1-0 win over Ikorodu City, thanks to a resilient performance. The win keeps Rangers in contention for the NPFL title, but Ilechukwu knows that discipline will be crucial in their upcoming games.

“Discipline is key to success in football,” Ilechukwu emphasized. “We cannot afford to have players who cannot control their emotions on the pitch. Ogunleye’s actions were unacceptable, and he will face the consequences.”

Rangers’ next game against Remo Stars is crucial, and Ilechukwu will be without Ogunleye’s services. However, the technical adviser is confident that his team can secure another vital win.

“We have a strong squad, and we will make adjustments to compensate for Ogunleye’s absence,” Ilechukwu said. “We will go into the game against Remo Stars with a positive mindset and determination to win.”

The NPFL has been plagued by disciplinary issues in recent times, and Ilechukwu’s stance on Ogunleye’s actions sends a strong message that indiscipline will not be tolerated.

The NPFL season progresses and Rangers will need to maintain focus and discipline to achieve their goals. With the disciplinary action against Ogunleye, Ilechukwu has made it clear that his team will not compromise on discipline.

In related news, Ikorodu City boss, Ozebagbe, expressed disappointment over his team’s defeat to Rangers, while Rangers’ goalkeeper, Abdullahi, relished the team’s victory.

The NPFL continues to provide thrilling matches, and fans will be eagerly awaiting the next round of fixtures.

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Galatasaray coach Orkan Buruk has come to the defense of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, praising his overall contributions to the team despite his inability to score in his first three games at the club.

Osimhen joined Galatasaray in the summer after failing to secure a transfer to a bigger club. The 25-year-old arrived with high expectations, given his impressive exploits at Napoli.

He has started all three games he was available for, registering four assists and taking 18 shots, but none have found the net.

READ MORE: Why Fidelis Ilechukwu is not happy despite victory over Ikorodu city

Despite Osimhen’s goal drought, Buruk has backed the Nigerian striker, highlighting his selflessness and overall contributions to the team.

“Victor Osimhen’s game is very important. Not everything is about scoring goals. You score goals but you lose the game,” Buruk said.

Buruk emphasized Osimhen’s willingness to pass to his teammates when necessary, rather than solely focusing on scoring goals. “When he sees the net, he passes the ball to the closest player. If he focused only on scoring goal it could be different.

Galatasaray coach Buruk has defended Victor osimhen amidst goal drought

He fights a lot during the game. He suits us very well as a player and a person. It is very valuable to have him with us.”

Galatasaray’s next game is against Kasimpasa, and Osimhen will likely lead the line again.

The Lions are massive favorites to win the game, and Osimhen will hope to break his scoreless streak.

Despite not scoring, Osimhen’s presence has made a significant impact on the team. His assists and link-up play have been crucial in Galatasaray’s success.

Buruk’s praise is a testament to Osimhen’s value beyond just goal-scoring.

Osimhen continues to work towards breaking his goal drought and Buruk’s support will undoubtedly boost his confidence.

With Galatasaray’s upcoming fixtures, Osimhen will have ample opportunities to find the net and solidify his position as the team’s lead striker.

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The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially appointed Augustine Eguavoen as the head coach of the Super Eagles. The decision, announced in a communique on Thursday, comes after a recommendation from the NFF’s Technical and Development Sub-Committee.

Eguavoen, 58, who had been serving as the NFF’s Technical Director, will now lead Nigeria into the next phase of their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign. His appointment follows a successful interim stint, where the Super Eagles earned a 3-0 victory over Benin Republic and a goalless draw against Rwanda earlier this month.

The veteran coach’s impressive management during these games played a key role in his official appointment, as Nigeria collected four points from their opening two AFCON qualifying matches.

READ MORE: Getafe President defends Nigerian star Chrisantus Uche following racial abuse Interview

Eguavoen’s technical team includes Fidelis Ilechukwu, Daniel Ogunmodede, Olatunji Baruwa, and Tomaz Zorec. Together, they will also oversee the Super Eagles B team in the qualifying rounds of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), a tournament dedicated to home-based players from domestic leagues across Africa.

This marks Eguavoen’s fourth tenure as the Super Eagles head coach. His deep familiarity with Nigerian football, both as a former player and coach, alongside his role as Technical Director, has made him a trusted figure within the NFF.

Eguavoen’s appointment puts an end to recent speculation about a possible foreign coach taking over the team, with the NFF showing faith in his ability to guide Nigeria to AFCON 2025 and beyond. His next challenge will be leading the Super Eagles in a crucial qualifying match against Libya next month.

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The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has appointed Coach Justin Madugu as the interim head coach of the Super Falcons following the sudden resignation of Randy Waldrum. The American coach, who had led the team since 2020, stepped down earlier this month, citing personal reasons, including his wife’s health issues.

The NFF’s Executive Committee, acting swiftly to fill the void, announced Madugu’s appointment to ensure continuity within the Super Falcons’ technical crew. Madugu, who will lead the team on an interim basis, has been tasked with preparing the squad for upcoming competitions while the NFF conducts a search for a permanent head coach.

READ MORE: Austin Eguavoen cautions Stanley Nwabali over one aspect of his game

Waldrum’s resignation came as a surprise, especially after he recently reaffirmed his commitment to the Super Falcons. His departure follows a challenging period for the team, including a disappointing run in the Paris 2024 Olympic qualifiers. Despite the setback, Waldrum had expressed his desire to stay on, making his decision to step down even more unexpected.

The NFF has emphasised that Madugu’s role is temporary, with the federation working to secure a permanent replacement ahead of the Super Falcons’ next major competition, the 2024 Women Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Madugu’s appointment reflects the NFF’s commitment to maintaining the team’s competitiveness as they prepare for future tournaments.

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The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has made a significant move by naming Justin Magudu as the interim head coach of the Super Falcons, effectively replacing American tactician Randy Waldrum.

Former Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum who cited his wife’s ill health as reason for resignation as super falcons head coach after a terrible outing at the 2024 Olympics in Paris

This decision comes on the heels of the team’s disappointing exit from the 2024 Olympic qualifying tournament.

Randy Waldrum’s tenure, which began in 2020, ended without any silverware for Nigeria.

Despite this, the team earned recognition as the Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Women’s Team of the Year after an impressive showing at the 2023 Women’s World Cup.

READ MORE: Rangers goalkeeper Lucky Abdullahi eyes NPFL title after 1-0 win over Ikorodu City

However, his time in charge was marked by controversy, including ongoing disputes with the NFF over unpaid salaries.

The NFF’s executive committee has appointed Magudu to stabilize the team ahead of upcoming international competitions. Magudu, former Adamawa United manager, takes the reins with immediate effect.

He previously showcased his coaching prowess during Waldrum’s absence earlier this year, guiding the Super Falcons to a resounding 4-0 thrashing of Ethiopia in a crucial Olympic qualifier.

Magudu aims to inject new energy into the squad and guide them through their upcoming fixtures. With the Super Falcons needing a fresh start, Magudu’s appointment is a crucial step towards revitalizing the team.

His primary objective will be to restore the team’s confidence and competitiveness, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

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As Nigeria’s interim coach Augustine Eguavoen gears up to announce the Super Eagles’ squad for the crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Libya in October, all eyes are on Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo.

There are new reports from the local media suggesting that Adarabioyo, who was born in England, has decided to commit his international future to Nigeria. However, no official confirmation from Eguavoen has been made, casting doubt on whether the Premier League star will be part of the squad for the upcoming qualifiers.

Daybreak reports that Nigeria’s coaching staff is currently assessing defensive options across Europe as they look to strengthen the team’s backline. With William Troost-Ekong and Semi Ajayi, both experienced but aging, the team is seeking younger talents to inject fresh energy into the defense. At a combined age of 61, the duo’s lack of pace is becoming a concern, despite their experience and leadership.

Tosin Adarabioyo could provide a solution. The 26-year-old centre-back has yet to earn a senior cap for either England or Nigeria but is seen as a valuable asset due to his Premier League experience and his ability to complement the current Super Eagles’ defensive setup. His potential integration into the team would be made smoother by his familiarity with four key members of the squad—Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Ademola Lookman—all of whom he has played alongside at club level.

Despite the growing buzz, Tosin has not featured for England’s youth teams since 2015, when he played for the Young Lions against Japan’s U20s. The lengthy absence from England’s international scene adds to the intrigue surrounding his potential switch to Nigeria.

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