Tag: General Sports

Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president, Amaju Pinnick, has openly criticized Napoli for their treatment of Victor Osimhen, following the striker’s high-profile transfer saga this summer.

Osimhen, who played a key role in helping Napoli secure their first Serie A title in over three decades, saw his relationship with the club deteriorate, ultimately leading to a season-long loan move to Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Lig after a failed transfer to other European clubs.

In an interview with Arise News, Pinnick expressed his disappointment with how Napoli handled the situation, especially considering Osimhen’s significant contributions to the club.

Pinnick emphasised that Osimhen had given his all to Napoli and deserved better recognition, particularly after being crowned the African Footballer of the Year.

READ MORE: Super Eagles get HUGE boost as Galatasaray new man arrives camp

Pinnick pointed out that Napoli failed to properly celebrate Osimhen’s achievements. “Osimhen did what nobody did in 30 years.

He singlehandedly won that league for Napoli after 30 years,” Pinnick stated. He further noted that Napoli delayed acknowledging Osimhen’s African Footballer of the Year award, only posting about it two days after the announcement.

Pinnick added, “Did they give him a guard of honour for winning the African Player of the Year? Napoli was not fair to Osimhen.”

Despite the fallout, Osimhen is now eager to make an impact with Galatasaray and has assured the club’s fans of achieving great things together.

Meanwhile, he is also focused on Nigeria’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

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Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali weighed in on the ongoing debate about whether foreign or local coaches are better suited to lead Nigeria’s national team.

The debate resurfaced following the failed appointment of German coach Bruno Labbadia and the interim appointment of Austin Eguavoen, which also coincided with the resignation of assistant coach Finidi George and a heated outburst from striker Victor Osimhen.

In an interview with Football Fans Tribe in Uyo, Nwabali addressed the topic of whether Nigerian players show more respect to foreign coaches compared to local ones. Speaking in Nigerian Pidgin, Nwabali emphasized that the coach’s nationality is irrelevant to the players’ dedication and commitment to the team.

“Fans will always have their opinions; you can’t change that. You can’t tell me European coaches are more respected—nothing like that. One of the greatest coaches of the Super Eagles is Stephen Keshi, a Nigerian,” Nwabali said.

He added that results matter more than who is in charge, pointing out that in club football, players work under coaches from various nationalities. For him, it’s about playing for the badge and the country, not the coach.

“All I can do is wish the person in charge well, as we the players give our all regardless of the coach’s nationality.”

Nwabali, who rose to prominence after a strong showing at AFCON 2023, is expected to retain his place as the first-choice goalkeeper for Nigeria’s upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

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Nigeria’s interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has dismissed talks of revenge ahead of the Super Eagles’ 2025 AFCON qualifier against Benin Republic. Instead, he’s focused on securing maximum points to book a spot at the prestigious continental tournament.

The Super Eagles face Benin for the second time in 2024, having lost 2-1 in their first encounter in Côte d’Ivoire. Eguavoen is determined to turn the tide and pick up all three points against a Gernot Rohr-led Benin side at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

Ex-Super Eagles coach Gerhnot Rohr will lead Benin Republic to the Nest of Champions on Saturday

Benin Republic will return to the Nest of Champions with ex Super Eagles coach Gerhnot Rohr who was sacked by the NFF after a not very fruitful few years with the giants of Africa- the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

READ MORE: Heartland breaks another record with signing of 30 new players

“Our objective is clear: to collect six points from both matches. The players are well aware of this, and they’re fully committed,” Eguavoen said. “No one is talking about revenge. Our sole focus is on getting three points against Benin Republic on Saturday, and then another three points in Kigali on Tuesday.”

Following their encounter with Benin Republic, the Super Eagles will travel to Kigali for their next fixture against Rwanda, aiming to complete the international break on a high note.

Super Eagles players all smiles, training in camp. Photo Credit: The Athletic Images

Eguavoen’s approach is a clear indication of the team’s determination to succeed in the qualifiers. With a strong squad and a focused mindset, the Super Eagles are poised to make a statement in the AFCON qualifiers.

The match against Benin Republic will be a crucial test for the Super Eagles, but Eguavoen’s leadership and the team’s commitment to success make them a formidable force. As the AFCON qualifiers heat up, Nigerian football fans can expect an exciting ride.

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Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has made history by becoming the eighth Nigerian player to be nominated for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.

The 25-year-old Atalanta star was recognized for his exceptional form at both club and international levels over the past season.

Former Borussia Dortmund star and Super Eagles captain, Sunday Oliseh, congratulated Lookman on his nomination, saying, “Congratulations to Ademola Lookman for joining this exclusive list of Nigerians who were globally acclaimed! Naija’s all-time magnificent 8 just became THE MAGNIFICENT 8. Delighted and welcome to the club, Lil bro.”

Ademola scored a wonderful hat-trick that won Atalanta the Europa League title this year

READ MORE: ‘I am not here for revenge, I am here to win’- Austin Eguavoen

Lookman’s impressive performances, including a hat-trick in Atalanta’s 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen in the 2023-24 Europa League final, have catapulted him into the global spotlight.

His contributions at the international level were equally impressive, with three goals and one assist instrumental in guiding Nigeria to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Super Eagles electric forward is currently on international duty with the Nigerian squad that will face Benin Republic and Rwanda in the remaining legs of the 2025  AFCON qualifiers.

Ademola Lookman has been nominated for the 2024 Balon d’or awards

Ademola will be poised on impressing for his fatherland to further boost his chances of winning the football most coveted award-the Balon d’or during its this year’s showdown in December.

This nomination further establishes Lookman as a leading contender for the 2024 African Footballer of the Year award, following in the footsteps of Victor Osimhen, who placed eighth in the 2023 Ballon d’Or rankings.

Lookman’s achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport. As he continues to make waves in the football world, Nigerian fans can expect great things from this talented player.

The Ballon d’Or nomination is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting career for Ademola Lookman.

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The stage is set for a thrilling West African derby as Nigeria hosts Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday.

The Super Eagles are seeking revenge for their 2-1 loss in June’s World Cup qualifying match and their first win since March.

READ MORE: Sunday Oliseh congratulates Ademola Lookman on Ballon d’Or nomination

Head-to-Head:
Nigeria has a slight edge in the head-to-head record, winning 14 matches, drawing 6, and losing 8 against Benin Republic.

Match Preview:
Nigeria, led by interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, will be boosted by the return of Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong.

Benin Republic, under former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr, has shown improvement with two consecutive wins and will be confident of repeating their recent success.

Coach Gerhnot Rohr will return with the cheetahs to the Nest of Champions

Possible Lineup:
Nigeria: Nwabali; Aina, Ekong, Ajayi, Bassey; Ndidi, Onyedika, Iwobi; Lookman, Osimhen, Chukwueze
Benin Republic: Dandjinou; Moumini, Hountondji, Tijani, Kiki; Dokou, D’Almeida, Imourane; Dossou, Mounie, Olaitan

Prediction:
With the return of key players and home advantage, Nigeria is predicted to win 2-0 against Benin Republic.

However, the Cheetahs’ recent form and Rohr’s familiarity with the Nigerian team make them a formidable opponent. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams seeking to make a statement in the AFCON qualifiers.

Key Players to Watch:

Nigeria: Victor Osimhen, William Troost-Ekong, and Ademola Lookman

Benin Republic: Jodel Dossou, Steve Mounie, and Gelson Dandjinou

Nigeria received a major boost ahead of the match with the return of Star strikers Victor osimhen and Ademola Lookman

Tactics:

The Super Eagles will likely play a 4-3-3 formation, with Osimhen leading the attack, supported by Lookman and Chukwueze. This strong attacking players will be poised to shoot Nigeria to the 2025 AFCON.

Benin Republic will likely play a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Dossou and Mounie leading the attack.

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Heartland FC of Owerri has made a significant statement of intent with the signing of 30 new players, increasing names in the squad list to 62 ahead of  the upcoming NPFL season.

The club has by this feat broken another NPFL club record for most signing of the season in a summer transfer window by a single club

The Naze Millionaires have bolstered their squad with a mix of experienced players and young talents, setting their sights on making a strong impact on their return to the Nigerian top-flight league.

Former Golden Eaglets head coach Emmanuel Amunike took over reins at Heartland

Heartland FC replaced newly promoted to the NPFL Remo Stars feeders team, Beyond Limits who will be competing again in the Nigerian second-tier league with the Amunike boys competing in the top-flight league.

The new signings include Elvis Ori and Kelvin Ogunga from Bayelsa United, Udochukwu Anumudu from Abia Warriors, and Louis Umoh Anthony from Heartland Feeders.

READ MORE: NPFL board explains why Heartland are replacing Beyond Limit this season

Other notable additions include Alex Godwin from Niger Tornadoes, Julius Namitanie, Chukwudi Agor, Olanrewaju Molade, and Nnemeka Nkwo.

Under the leadership of former Golden Eagles captain, Emmanuel Amunike, Heartland FC is poised to compete against the top teams in the league.

Their opening fixture against Enyimba promises to be an exciting encounter, and fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the season.

Heartland FC face off against Sunshine Stars of Akure last season.

With a squad of 62 players, including four foreigners, Heartland FC has a good balance of youth and experience.

Their market value is yet to be determined, but with the quality of players at their disposal, they are expected to be one of the top contenders for the NPFL title.

The NPFL season is expected to be highly competitive, with several teams vying for the title.

Heartland’s new signings have undoubtedly strengthened their chances of success, and fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the season.

Heartland will Kickstart the new season this weekend with a trip to Aba to face NPFL giants Enyimba in what promises to be a brutal fight of the elephants.

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Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen has arrived in Uyo ahead of Nigeria’s crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against the Benin Republic.

The 25-year-old forward landed in Nigeria on Thursday morning before flying to Uyo onboard Ibom Air, where he will join the national team for training later in the evening.

Osimhen’s arrival comes shortly after completing his loan move from Napoli to Turkish champions Galatasaray, concluding a dramatic summer transfer saga. The Nigerian striker had been linked with several top European clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Chelsea, and Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli, but Napoli rejected the offers. His eventual move to Galatasaray was sealed after the European transfer window closed, with the Turkish club securing his services for the season.

READ MORE: Nigerian striker  celebrates Galatasaray move, expresses excitement on social media

Although Victor Osimhen was close to joining Chelsea, reports suggest he turned down the wage package offered by the Premier League club, allowing Galatasaray to swoop in. With his transfer business concluded, Osimhen is now focused on the national team as they prepare for the AFCON qualifiers.

His initial participation with the Super Eagles was delayed as he sorted out the final details of his move to Turkey. However, Osimhen reportedly kept the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen informed about his situation and was given the green light to join the team after completing his transfer.

Osimhen’s presence in Uyo is a major boost for Nigeria as they prepare for the clash against Benin Republic. The reigning African Best Player is expected to lead the line for the Super Eagles and will train with the squad this evening. His fine form on the international stage will be crucial as Nigeria looks to secure their spot in the 2025 AFCON tournament.

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The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) board has addressed the controversy surrounding Heartland FC’s return to the top flight for the 2024/25 season.

Contrary to reports, the board has stated that no money exchanged hands in their decision to hand the topflight slot of Beyond Limits Football Academy to Heartland.

The NPFL announced on Tuesday that Beyond Limits would not be allowed to participate in the top flight due to concerns regarding dual interest between them and Remo Stars, a club already competing in the NPFL. As a result, Heartland FC, who were relegated last season, will take their place.

The NPFL board clarified that the decision was made in accordance with Rule A5.2, which stipulates the criteria for club participation. Heartland FC met the requirements set by the NPFL board and was the only relegated club to express interest in filling the vacancy.

Academy Statement: NPFL Participation #NoLimits pic.twitter.com/KTQNufM7Am

— Beyond Limits FA (@Beyond_LimitsFA) September 3, 2024

The board also emphasized that there was no slot-buying transaction involved, as such practices are explicitly prohibited under NPFL rules. The NPFL remains committed to upholding a fair and competitive league.

READ MORE: Osimhen celebrates Galatasaray move, expresses excitement on social media

Beyond Limits Football Academy has accepted the board’s decision and will participate in the Nigeria National League for the 2024/25 season.

Heartland FC, on the other hand, has been preparing for the start of the new season with pre-season games and will face Enyimba at home in their first game.

The NPFL board’s decision has brought clarity to the situation, and fans can now look forward to an exciting season. The league’s commitment to fairness and competitiveness is commendable, and the decision to uphold the rules is a step in the right direction.

In a season that promises to be filled with thrilling matches and surprises, the NPFL has shown that it will not compromise on its values.

The focus now shifts to the pitch, where teams will battle it out for the top prize. Will Heartland FC make the most of their second chance, or will other teams rise to the challenge? Only time will tell.

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Galatasaray and Brazil ex international, Felipe Melo, has sent a heartfelt message to Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen following his move to Galatasaray.

Osimhen joined the Turkish giants on a season-long loan deal, bringing an end to a chaotic summer that saw him targeted by several top European clubs.

Melo, who spent four successful years at Galatasaray and won seven cups, is pleased to see Osimhen team up with his beloved club.

Felipe Melo of Galatasaray celebrates next to Didier Drogba after the UEFA Champions League round of 16 second leg match between FC Schalke 04 and Galatasaray AS at Veltins-Arena on March 12, 2013 in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

The 41-year-old Fluminense star took to Instagram to dedicate a story to Osimhen, writing: “God bless you in the best club in Turkey.”

READ MORE: Galatasaray fans are unhappy with one thing after Osimhen’s loan move

Osimhen, considered the greatest signing in Galatasaray’s history, will look to help the Yellow Reds retain the league title they won last year and claim their first Europa League title.

The Nigerian forward has been flooded with messages from fans and top football personalities since reaching an agreement with Galatasaray.

Melo’s message is a testament to the warm welcome Osimhen has received in Turkey. The former Juventus and Inter Milan midfielder knows what it takes to succeed at Galatasaray, and his prayers for Osimhen’s success are a nod to the Nigerian striker’s potential.

Victor osimhen was greeted to Turkey by thousands of over excited fans

Osimhen’s immediate concern will be to help Nigeria overcome the Benin Republic and Rwanda in the qualifying rounds of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

After the international break, however, the 25-year-old striker will return to Turkey, where he will likely make his Super Lig debut for Galatasaray in their clash with Rizespor on September 14.

With Melo’s prayers and the support of the Galatasaray faithful, Osimhen will look to make a significant impact in Turkey and lead the Yellow Reds to success in the Süper Lig and Europa League.

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Akwa United, the 2020/2021 Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) champions, have announced their squad for the upcoming season.

The team boasts an impressive array of talented players, with a mix of experienced veterans and young prospects.

In goal, Akwa United have five options, including Jean Efala, Uche Okafor, Ifeanyi Emmanuel, Hakeem Otuyiga, and Covenant Bassey.

READ MORE: Brazil ‘great’ sends heartfelt message to Victor Osimhen after Galatasaray move

The defense is marshaled by Samuel Agu, Wisdom Ndon, Gerome Heutchou, David Philip, Oddi Bobo, Emmanuel James, Akintunde Bala Oloyade, Paschal Onunze, Nsikan Alloysius, Ekundayo Owoniyi, Samuel Ganda, Matthew Etim, Awoyemi Abiodun, and Victor Ifiok.

Latest Akwa United signings

The midfield is where Akwa United’s creativity and flair lie, with players like Dare Ojo, Kaham Platini, Auwal Ibrahim, Kunle Oyetosho, Nsikak Raphael, Gbenga Opamoye, Seyi Oguntayo, Ubong Essien, Emmanuel Ugwuka, and Rilwan Ololade Sadiq.

The attack is spearheaded by Friday Ubong, Reuben Bala, Valentine Obilor, Kabir Osoba, Said Mubarak, Mustapha Danazimi, Efa Efa, Iniobong Nsima, Paul Acquah, Kufre Ebong, Moubarak Gounou, Emmanuel Okon, Damilare Shodipo, Edidiong Ezekiel Enobong, Mare Abson, and Daniel Japhet.

Notable additions to the squad include Paul Acquah, a Ghanaian winger, and Moubarak Gounou, a Togolese striker.

The team also has a strong Nigerian core, with players like Kufre Ebong, Emmanuel Okon, and Damilare Shodipo.

Akwa United’s squad has an average age of 24.8, with a good balance of youth and experience.

The team’s market value is yet to be determined, but with the quality of players at their disposal, they are expected to be one of the top contenders for the NPFL title.

The squad’s diversity is also noteworthy, with players from Cameroon, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria.

This blend of cultures and playing styles could prove to be a key factor in Akwa United’s success this season.

The NPFL season kicks off and Akwa United will be looking to defend their title and make a strong impression on the continent. With their talented squad and experienced coaching staff, they are well-equipped to achieve their goals.

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