Tag: General Sports

Enugu Rangers took a significant step towards advancing to the group stage of the CAF Champions League with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Sagrada Esperanca of Angola in the first leg of their playoff tie.

The match, played in Uyo, Nigeria, saw midfielder Kazeem Ogunleye score the winning goal ten minutes from full time.

Ogunleye’s beautifully struck shot from outside the box proved to be the difference between the two teams, giving Enugu Rangers a crucial advantage ahead of the return leg in Angola.

The overall winners of the tie will advance to the lucrative group stage of the Champions League.

READ MORE: What Samson Siasia said about returning to Super Eagles coaching job

Enugu Rangers’ coach praised his team’s resilience and determination, saying, “We knew it was going to be a tough match, but we prepared well and executed our game plan perfectly.”

Rangers midfielder Isaac Saviour (left) alongside match winner kazeem Ogunleye

The team’s fans will be eagerly awaiting the second leg, hoping to see their side take a step closer to glory.

This victory comes on the heels of Enyimba’s scoreless draw against Etoile Filante of Burkina Faso in the CAF Confederation Cup, highlighting the growing strength of Nigerian football in continental competitions.

Enugu Rangers’ success also demonstrates the team’s ability to perform under pressure, having been held to a draw in their NPFL season opener.

In other news, Flying Eagles have resumed camp for the U20 AFCON qualifiers amid claims of unpaid allowances, while El Kanemi Cup-winning coach Aliyu Zubairu has emerged as the new favorite to lead the team.

Additionally, Gift Orban’s transfer has fallen through, and Rabiu Ali continues to impress at 43.

The second leg of the CAF Champions League playoff between Enugu Rangers and Sagrada Esperanca promises to be an exciting encounter, with Enugu Rangers looking to capitalize on their home advantage and secure a spot in the group stage.

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Enyimba Football Club of Nigeria has taken a crucial step towards advancing to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup after holding hosts Etoile Filante of Burkina Faso to a scoreless draw in the first leg of the second preliminary round.

The match was played in Bamako, Mali, on September 13, 2024.

The Nigerian team, two-time CAF Champions League winners, showed resilience and determination in the face of a hostile crowd, denying the Burkinabe side any scoring opportunities.

The draw gives Enyimba a significant advantage going into the second leg, scheduled to take place in Uyo, Nigeria, next weekend.

READ MORE: Enugu Rangers edge closer to CAFLC group stages with 1:0 win over Sagrada Esperanca

A victory for Enyimba in the return leg will secure their spot in the group stage of the competition, a feat they last achieved in 2016.

Enyimba held Angolan side Etoile Filante to a stalemate today away from home 

The team’s coach has praised his players for their discipline and hard work, saying, “We knew it was going to be a tough match, but we prepared well and executed our game plan perfectly.”

Enyimba’s success in the CAF Confederation Cup is a proof of the growing strength of Nigerian football, which has seen several teams make significant progress in continental competitions in recent years.

The team’s fans will be eagerly awaiting the second leg, hoping to see their side take a step closer to glory.

In other news, Enugu Rangers, another Nigerian team, left it late to edge their CAF Champions League playoff match, while NPFL Player of the Week, Rabiu Ali, continues to impress at 43.

Meanwhile, El Kanemi Cup-winning coach Aliyu Zubairu has emerged as the new favorite to lead the Flying Eagles.

The second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup match between Enyimba and Etoile Filante promises to be an exciting encounter, with Enyimba looking to capitalize on their away draw and secure a spot in the group stage.

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Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has announced his return to full fitness after an injury-plagued spell, expressing his eagerness to reclaim his place in the starting lineup.

The Nigerian forward, who has been battling various injuries over the past year, is now determined to get back to his best form and help Forest push forward in the Premier League.

Awoniyi’s fitness struggles began last season with a groin problem that required surgery, followed by a thigh injury that severely limited his playing time. In addition, the 27-year-old missed part of Nottingham Forest’s pre-season due to personal reasons, putting him behind teammate Chris Wood in terms of match sharpness and form.

After making several substitute appearances in the team’s first three games this season, Awoniyi is focused on building his fitness and showing the club that he is ready to contribute fully once again.

“Nottingham Forest is a team full of talent and players who can be trusted,” Awoniyi said in a statement. “I just need to keep pushing and keep working hard.”

READ MORE: What Remo Stars head coach said about Super Eagles permanent job

Awoniyi also expressed his joy at being back on the field after months of rehabilitation, saying, “It feels great to be back. After a period away due to injury, returning to play is what every footballer hopes for. I’m really happy to be back on the field.”

Reflecting on the challenges of his recovery, Taiwo Awoniyi shared his determination to move past the difficult period. “I am back, I’m healthy and fine. This topic is very hard to go into. But as a player, this is a phase you cannot miss. When it happens, you feel bad about it. But you just must get going and you just have to stay fit and do the best for yourself.”

Now fully fit, the Super Eagles forward is eager to prove himself again and make a positive impact as Nottingham Forest aims to build on their campaign. Awoniyi’s return to top form could be crucial for the club as they look to strengthen their position in the league.

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Former Super Eagles coach Samson Siasia has expressed his willingness to return to the national team, but only if the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) offers him a proper contract.

Siasia, who has been out of the job for five years due to a FIFA ban, is now available to take up the position again.

In an interview with Lagos Talks, Siasia revealed that he is open to negotiating with the NFF, but wants to avoid the problems that led to his previous sackings.

“I know the situation we’re in, but you just have to negotiate. I have to sit down and discuss with them. I just don’t want to jump in if they ask me to come in there because it’s a very difficult situation,” he said.

READ MORE: Nasarawa United conclude plans for new Season, declare readiness for match day 2

Siasia, who has been in charge of the Super Eagles twice before, emphasized the need for a proper contract to ensure a smooth working relationship.

“It’s not the only job in the world. I want to win, but I have to do it the right way, they have to do it the right way.”

The 57-year-old coach has a wealth of experience, having managed the Flying Eagles, the under-23 team, and the senior national team.

Samson Siasia

His return to the Super Eagles could be a welcome boost for the team, which has been without a permanent coach since the departure of Gernot Rohr.

Augustine Eguavoen is currently the interim coach of the Super Eagles, but Siasia’s experience and knowledge of the team make him a strong contender for the permanent position.

The NFF will need to act quickly to secure Siasia’s services, as other teams may also be interested in his expertise.

Siasia’s willingness to return to the Super Eagles is a positive development for Nigerian football, and fans will be eagerly waiting to see if he will be appointed as the permanent coach.

With his experience and knowledge of the team, Siasia could be the right man to lead the Super Eagles to success in the upcoming AFCON qualifiers and beyond.

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Randy Waldrum, coach of the Super Falcons of Nigeria has tendered his resignation to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) .

Waldrum, who took over as Nigeria coach in 2020, cited his wife’s health issues as the reason for his departure.

Nigeria Super Falcons. Photo Credit: Getty Images

During his tenure, Waldrum led the Super Falcons to a fourth-place finish at the 2022 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and an impressive round of 16 finish at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

However, his last competition was the 2024 Olympic Games, where he failed to take the team out of the group stage.

READ MORE: Finidi George makes shocking new revelations about rift with Osimhen

Waldrum’s resignation letter, shared by OgaNla media, revealed that his wife has been struggling with health issues, and he needs to prioritize his family.

The NFF has not confirmed Waldrum’s resignation, but an official statement is expected soon.

Waldrum’s departure marks the end of an era for the Super Falcons, and the search for a new coach begins.

Super Falcons coach Randy Waldrum and wife

The NFF will need to find a suitable replacement to lead the team to success in future competitions.

The Super Falcons have shown promise under Waldrum’s leadership, and his resignation will be felt.

However, the team must move forward, and the NFF must find a coach who can build on Waldrum’s achievements and take the team to new heights.

The NFF has not officially reacted to or confirm Waldrum’s resignation, but it is expected that an official statement will be released soon.

The search for a new coach is expected to begin immediately, with several candidates already being touted as potential replacements.

The Super Falcons will need to regroup and refocus under new leadership, but with the right coach, they can continue to make waves in women’s football.

Waldrum’s resignation marks the end of an era, but it also presents an opportunity for growth and development.

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Paris Saint-Germain’s Sporting Director, Luís Campos, has revealed that the club never made a formal offer for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, contrary to previous reports.

In an interview with Sport Italia correspondent Tancredi Palmeri, Campos dismissed the rumors, stating that PSG never bid for the Super Eagles forward.

The Nigerian international was reportedly a target for several top clubs during the 2024 summer transfer window, with PSG said to be among them.

However, Campos has clarified that the French Ligue 1 giants never made a move for Osimhen, despite speculation suggesting otherwise.

When asked about rumors of a last-minute approach from Napoli before the transfer deadline, Campos replied, “That’s the market,” alluding to the unpredictable nature of transfer negotiations.

READ MORE: Why Randy Waldrum resigned as Super Falcons head coach 

African best player, Victor osimhen was reportedly linked to PSG

Osimhen ultimately joined Turkish giants Galatasaray on a season-long loan from Napoli, with the club covering 70% of his annual salary. The Super Eagles star has already begun training with his new team and is eager to make his mark.

Campos’ revelation comes as a surprise, given the intense speculation surrounding Osimhen’s future during the transfer window. However, it appears that PSG never seriously pursued the Nigerian striker, despite reports suggesting otherwise.

This development highlights the unpredictable nature of transfer negotiations, with clubs and players often exploring multiple options before making a final decision.

Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray may have come as a surprise to some, but it represents a new chapter in his career, and he will be eager to make a positive impact in Turkey.

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Nasarawa United, a Nigerian Premier Football League team, has begun preparations for the new season.

The team’s technical crew, led by Technical Director Kabiru Dogo, met with Nasarawa State Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Agbadu to fine-tune their plans.

The meeting, held at the Deputy Governor’s temporary office in Lafia, aimed to strategize for the team’s success in the upcoming season.

READ MORE: Luis Campos makes surprise revelations on Victor Osimhen’s PSG summer links

The technical crew, including Technical Adviser Usman Adams, Assistant Chief Coach Abubakar Arikya, and Assistant Coaches Stephen Moga and Ibrahim Yahaya Sabo, attended the meeting.

Goalkeeper Trainer Olatunji Baruwa was absent, as he is currently with the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Nasarawa United kicked off their season with a 1-1 draw against Shooting Stars. The team will face Niger Tornadoes at the Bako Kontagora Memorial Mini Stadium in Minna, Niger State, on Sunday, September 15, 2024.

Nasarawa United begun their 2024)25 NPFL’ season with a draw with Shooting Stars

The meeting demonstrates the team’s commitment to improving their performance and making a strong impact in the league. With a solid strategy in place, Nasarawa United is poised for a successful season.

Nasarawa United’s preparations for the new season are underway, and fans can expect an exciting campaign from the Solid Miners.

Nasarawa United played out a combative 1:1 draw with Shooting Stars in March day one of the 2024/2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL’).

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Nigerian forward Victor Boniface has expressed his frustration and disappointment over his latest FIFA ratings, labeling them as “bullsh*t”.

Despite an impressive debut season with Bayer Leverkusen, where he scored 21 goals and registered ten assists, Boniface’s rating rose only slightly from 81 to 82.

READ MORE: Super Falconets knocked out of U-20 Women’s World Cup after 2:1 loss to Japan

In a video shared by Leverkusen on their social media pages, Boniface questioned the logic and criteria behind his passing rating, which was set at 66 despite his ten assists during the 2023-24 season.

“Why would you give me 66 for passing when I almost had ten assists? No, it’s bullsh*t,” he exclaimed, visibly disappointed and confused by the assessment.

Super Eagles and Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface reacts after scoring his first goal for Leverkusen this season

Boniface’s dissatisfaction comes after a stellar season where he secured the Bundesliga Rookie of the Year award, showcasing his exceptional skills and contributions to his team.

His form has been critical for both club and country, with Boniface narrowly missing out on his first international goal during Nigeria’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Rwanda.

Despite the rating controversy, Boniface has continued to shine for Bayer Leverkusen, already scoring one goal in three appearances in the new campaign.

His performances have consistently impressed on the pitch, and international and local football fans will be watching to see how Boniface continues to prove his worth this season, regardless of his FIFA rating.

This controversy may be a figment of the ongoing debate about the accuracy and reliability of FIFA ratings, with many players and fans questioning the criteria used to determine them.

Boniface’s reaction adds to the growing list of players who have spoken out against their ratings, sparking a wider conversation about the impact of these ratings on player morale, motivation, and overall perception of their abilities.

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Italian transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano has addressed recent speculation linking Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka, an England youth international of Nigerian descent, with a loan move to Victor Osimhen’s new club, Galatasaray before the transfer window closes in Turkey.

Romano refuted claims of an impending loan deal, clarifying that Chelsea is only considering an outright sale for the talented 20-year-old. Galatasaray had reportedly shown interest in Chukwuemeka as they continue their search for a central midfielder, but no agreement has been reached.

Romano revealed in his Daily Briefing column for CaughtOffside: “Despite links, I’m not aware of concrete talks with Galatasaray over Chukwuemeka so far.

READ MORE: Jose Mourinho rates Victor Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray 

Chelsea always considered Carney only available on a permanent deal, not on loan… so the only way would be to change Chelsea management’s mind, but this hasn’t happened so far.”

Chukwuemeka, who transferred from Aston Villa to Chelsea in August 2022, has not featured in Chelsea’s first three Premier League games this season under head coach Enzo Maresca. He is currently behind midfielders Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo, Romeo Lavia, and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in the pecking order.

Galatasaray’s pursuit of midfield reinforcements also includes Nigeria international Raphael Onyedika, though they have yet to finalize a deal with his club, Club Brugge.

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