Tag: General Sports

Former Super Eagles coach Adegboye Onigbinde has expressed his reservations regarding the recent appointment of Bruno Labbadia as the new head coach of Nigeria’s national football team.

Onigbinde’s comments have sparked a debate about the decision and the broader challenges facing Nigerian football.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officially announced Labbadia’s appointment on Tuesday morning. Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, NFF General Secretary, confirmed that the decision was approved by the NFF Executive Committee based on the recommendation of the Technical and Development Sub-Committee. “The NFF Executive Committee has approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee to appoint Mr. Bruno Labbadia as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles. The appointment is with immediate effect,” Sanusi said.

Labbadia, who previously managed several clubs in Germany, replaces Finidi George in a role that has sparked considerable debate among Nigerian football fans and pundits. Onigbinde, who has previously managed the Super Eagles, voiced his concerns to Complete Sports, questioning the rationale behind the appointment.

READ MORE: Ekong, Awoniyi, Ndah return in Super Eagles squad for Benin Republic and Rwanda AFCON qualifiers

“It is only the people that took the decision [to appoint Labbadia] who can best explain why,” Onigbinde stated, indicating a lack of clarity in the decision-making process. He further emphasised that the challenges facing Nigerian football extend beyond mere technical issues.

“Like I always tell you, the problem of Nigerian football is not technical or administrative. No matter how good a coach is, if the administration of the game is not in order, then there is a problem,” Onigbinde added. His remarks suggest that he believes the fundamental issues plaguing Nigerian football are not being addressed adequately.

Onigbinde also questioned the effectiveness of Labbadia’s appointment given the existing talent within the Super Eagles. “Haven’t we had an array of great talents in the Super Eagles? What has been the result? Mind you, the first time I handled the Super Eagles, I had a pack of young players. So it’s not a matter of having an array of talents,” he noted.

The appointment of Labbadia has been met with mixed reactions, with some critics suggesting that former coach Finidi George might have been a better option. Onigbinde’s comments highlight a broader concern about the NFF’s decision-making process and the need for a more comprehensive approach to address the challenges faced by Nigerian football.

Labbadia’s immediate challenge will be to lead the Super Eagles in two crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin Republic on September 7th in Uyo and Rwanda on September 10th in Kigali.

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Italian Serie A club Udinese have announced the mutual termination of Isaac Success’s contract. The news was shared via a press release on the official Udinese website.

Success, who was the top scorer at the 2013 U17 Africa Cup of Nations with seven goals, rejoined Udinese in the summer of 2021 from Watford. However, he did not feature in Udinese’s first three competitive matches of the new season, indicating that he was no longer needed by the club.

During his time at Udinese, Success made 83 appearances across all competitions, including 41 starts in Serie A. Over 3,866 minutes of play across three seasons, he contributed with 6 goals and 17 assists.

READ MORE: African party in the EFL Cup as Ghanaian star and Nigerian midfielder combine to seal Leicester City win

The club has been active in the transfer market this summer, signing Lorenzo Lucca, Damián Pizarro, Iker Bravo, and Alexis Sánchez. These new arrivals have pushed Success further down the list of forwards.

Success, a product of the BJ Foundation academy, made his senior debut for Nigeria in a friendly against Senegal in London in March 2017. However, due to a decline in form and injuries, he has not been called up to the Super Eagles since his fourth cap in a 2018 friendly against Uganda.

In addition to his time at Udinese, Success also spent a loan period at Malaga in the latter part of the 2017-2018 season and has played for Granada.

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Falconets’ head coach Christopher Danjuma remains confident in his team’s readiness for the upcoming FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

Danjuma expressed his confidence following Nigeria’s U20 girls’ narrow 1-0 defeat to Mexico in their final warm-up match in Bogota, Colombia. Mexico’s early strike, a 15th-minute volley from Alejandra Lomelí, proved decisive, but Danjuma believes the game was a valuable test for his squad.

Reflecting on the match, Danjuma emphasized the importance of these preparatory games in refining the Falconets’ strategies. “The friendly matches were crucial for the Falconets as they have helped the team fine-tune their strategies and assess their readiness for the tournament,” Danjuma stated, according to Punch.

While acknowledging that the result against Mexico was not ideal, Danjuma stressed the invaluable experience gained as the team gears up for the World Cup. The Falconets had previously secured an impressive 2-1 victory over Australia, which boosted their confidence heading into the tournament.

READ MORE: Nigerian Academy announces transfer of Godwin Udosen to Dinamo Bucharest

Danjuma highlighted the team’s overall preparedness, saying, “We won five of our six qualifying matches with healthy scorelines and have added victory over the Australians. The fact that we played two international friendly matches and won one and lost one shows the girls are ready.”

Looking ahead to the World Cup, Danjuma is fully aware of the challenge in Group D, where Nigeria will face Korea Republic, Germany, and Venezuela. “The fact that we are up against the Korea Republic and three-time winners Germany in our first two matches means we need to be at our best physically, mentally, and psychologically,” he remarked.

Despite the tough competition, Danjuma remains optimistic about the Falconets’ chances, underscoring that the team is in strong physical and mental shape and ready to compete at the highest level.

The Falconets will kick off their World Cup campaign on 2nd September against Korea Republic, followed by a clash with Germany on 4th September, and will conclude their group stage matches against Venezuela on 7th September.

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The Super Eagles of Nigeria have unveiled a strong squad for their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

Captain William Troost-Ekong, wing-back Olaoluwa Aina, and forwards Victor Osimhen and Taiwo Awoniyi are among the key players making their return to the team after recovering from injuries.

Troost-Ekong, who was named Man of the Competition at this year’s AFCON, missed the Matchdays 3 and 4 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in June due to injury. Similarly, Aina, Awoniyi, and Africa’s reigning Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, were also sidelined with injuries but are now back in action.

The squad features a balanced mix of three goalkeepers, seven defenders, six midfielders, and seven forwards. Notably, AFCON 2023 star Stanley Nwabali and Bendel Insurance goalkeeper Amas Obasogie have been included in the roster. South Africa-based defender Olisa Ndah also returns to the fold, along with Taiwo Awoniyi, who has been absent since the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw with Lesotho in Uyo during the World Cup qualifiers last November.

Nigeria will face the Cheetahs of Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, 7th September. Following that, they will travel to Kigali to play against Rwanda’s Amavubi at the Amahoro Stadium on Tuesday, 10th September. All players are expected to report to the camp in Uyo by Monday, 2nd September.

READ MORE: Bruno Labbadia: NFF appoint mysterious German as new National team head coach

Full Squad List:

Goalkeepers:

• Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)
• Maduka Okoye (Udinese FC, Italy)
• Amas Obasogie (Bendel Insurance FC, Nigeria)

Defenders:

• William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia)
• Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey)
• Olisa Ndah (Orlando Pirates, South Africa)
• Bruno Onyemaechi (Boavista FC, Portugal)
• Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England)
• Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England)
• Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)

Midfielders:

• Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)
• Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
• Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA)
• Fisayo Dele-Bashiru (Lazio FC, Italy)
• Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England)
• Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England)

Forwards:

• Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)
• Victor Osimhen (SSC Napoli, Italy)
• Kelechi Iheanacho (Sevilla FC, Spain)
• Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
• Moses Simon (FC Nantes, France)
• Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy)
• Taiwo Awoniyi (Nottingham Forest, England)

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Former Rivers United captain and 2022 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) winner, Nyima Nwagua, has arrived in Saudi Arabia to complete his move to second division side, Alsaad Club.

Nwagua, a key figure in Rivers United’s successful 2022 NPFL campaign, touched down at King Khalid International Airport in Saudi Arabia, where he was warmly welcomed by the club’s representatives. The supervisor of the first team, Mr. Mohannad Aldousery, personally received the Nigerian forward, signaling the club’s eagerness to integrate him into their squad.

The 29-year-old striker signed a one-year contract with Alsaad Club, marking a significant step in his career as he takes on a new challenge in the Saudi Arabian league.

READ MORE: Mexico strike early to beat Nigeria’s Falconets in final warm up game

Nwagua’s move to Alsaad is seen as an opportunity for him to bring his experience and goal-scoring prowess to a new audience, while also contributing to the club’s ambitions in the Saudi Arabian second division.

Nwagua’s career has been marked by consistent performances in the NPFL, where he played a pivotal role in Rivers United’s title-winning season. His leadership and skill on the field have made him a respected figure in Nigerian football, and his move to Saudi Arabia is expected to be closely followed by fans and analysts alike.

As Nyima Nwagua begins this new chapter with Alsaad Club, there is anticipation that his presence will boost the team’s chances in the league, with fans hopeful that he will replicate the success he achieved in Nigeria on Saudi soil.

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Governor Godwin Obaseki has rewarded Edo Queens FC with a sum of ₦100 million for their outstanding performance in the recently concluded CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU-B qualifiers held in Côte d’Ivoire. The announcement was made during a Red Carpet reception at the Government House in Benin City, in honor of the victorious team.

Governor Obaseki expressed his joy at the team’s achievement, tying it to the ongoing celebrations of Edo State’s 33rd anniversary. “This is a season of joy for the good people of Edo State,” the governor remarked. “We are in a celebratory mood, and Edo Queens’ victory has added to our happiness.”

Reflecting on the progress made since his administration began in 2016, Obaseki acknowledged the challenges the team faced in the past. “When we came in 2016, nobody gave Edo women a chance. All we heard were negative stories about our girls. I made a commitment to change that narrative, and today, I’m happy with the positive results we are seeing across all sectors of our economy.”

READ MORE: Mexico strike early to beat Falconets in final warm up game

The governor emphasised that this event was not about making speeches but about celebrating the team’s success. He expressed his gratitude to everyone involved in the mission, saying, “I have come here to say a big thank you to everyone that has made this mission possible.”

Governor Obaseki also encouraged the team to aim even higher, urging them to bring the CAF Women’s Champions League trophy to Edo State. “If you conquer Africa as you have conquered West Africa and bring the CAF Champions League trophy to Edo State, I won’t tell you what I will do for you, but for this achievement, I am giving the entire team, supporting staff, and supporters’ club ₦100 million,” he declared.

The gesture has further solidified the governor’s commitment to sports development in Edo State, especially in empowering women athletes to achieve greatness on the international stage.

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An early strike from Alejandra Lomelí secured a 1-0 victory for Mexico over Nigeria’s Falconets in their final warm-up match in Bogota, Colombia, ahead of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

The Falconets, who have been in Colombia for rigorous preparations, participated in two crucial international friendlies arranged by the Nigeria Football Federation to fine-tune their readiness for the global tournament.

In their first match, the Falconets claimed a 2-1 victory over Australia, but they were unable to replicate that success against Mexico. The match against Mexico was a closely contested affair, with both teams evenly matched for most of the game.

Mexico made their early dominance count in the 15th minute when CSYD Atlas De Guadalajara forward Alejandra Lomelí capitalised on a well-crafted move. Lomelí expertly connected with a cross from the left wing, sending a first-time shot past the Nigerian goalkeeper to give Mexico the lead.

Despite Nigeria’s best efforts to find an equaliser, they were unable to convert their chances, leaving them to regroup ahead of their opening match in the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, which begins this weekend.

The Falconets are drawn into Group D, where they will face tough opponents, including Germany, Venezuela, and Korea Republic. Their campaign kicks off against Korea Republic on Monday, 2nd September, followed by a clash with Germany on 4th September, and concluding with a match against Venezuela on 7th September.

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The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced the appointment of German tactician Bruno Labbadia as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles.

The 57-year-old Labbadia, who has previously coached top German clubs like Hertha Berlin and VfB Stuttgart, takes over the reins of the three-time African champions with immediate effect.

Labbadia’s appointment was confirmed by NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, in the early hours of Tuesday. “The NFF Executive Committee has approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee to appoint Mr. Bruno Labbadia as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles,” Sanusi said.

READ MORE: Edo Queens FC to celebrate CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU-B Qualifiers victory with trophy parade in Benin-City

Born in Darmstadt, Germany, Labbadia had a distinguished playing career, winning two caps for Germany and triumphing in the German Bundesliga with Bayern Munich in 1994. He holds a UEFA Pro License and has coached several top German clubs, including VfL Wolfsburg, Hamburger SV, and Bayer Leverkusen.

Labbadia becomes the sixth German to lead the Super Eagles, following in the footsteps of Karl-Heinz Marotzke, Gottlieb Göller, Manfred Höner, Berti Vogts, and Gernot Rohr. Höner led the Eagles to a runner-up finish at the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations, while Rohr qualified and led Nigeria to the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia.

New Super Eagles coach Bruno Labbadia (Photo credit: Getty Images)

Labbadia’s immediate challenge is to prepare the Super Eagles for two crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda next month. The German tactician will also oversee four other qualifying matches in October and November as Nigeria seeks to secure a spot at the continental showpiece.

The appointment of Labbadia has raised eyebrows, given his lack of experience in African football. However, his impressive coaching credentials and experience in the highly competitive German Bundesliga make him an attractive choice for the Super Eagles.

Labbadia begins his tenure and Nigerian football fans will be eagerly watching to see if he can replicate the success of his predecessors and lead the Super Eagles to glory on the continental stage.

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The 2024/2025 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) season approaches, referees have commenced their annual pre-season program in Abuja.

The training, which is being held in batches at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, aims to prepare arbiters for the upcoming campaign.

READ MORE: Breaking!: German Bruno Labbadia becomes 37th head coach of the Super Eagles.

The referees are undergoing rigorous physical fitness tests, field exercises, and running skills training, including on-field running techniques.

This comprehensive program is designed to ensure that referees are in top physical and mental condition to handle the demands of the NPFL.

The pre-season program is a crucial aspect of the NPFL’s efforts to improve the quality of refereeing in the league.

By providing referees with the necessary training and support, the league aims to reduce errors and controversy, ensuring a more enjoyable and competitive season for teams and fans alike.

The 2024/2025 NPFL season is scheduled to kick off on August 31, 2024, with a curtain-raiser match between Rangers International and El-Kanemi Warriors.

With the pre-season program underway, referees are gearing up to play their part in what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable season.

The NPFL’s commitment to referee development is a positive step towards enhancing the overall quality of the league.

By investing in the training and well-being of referees, the league is demonstrating its dedication to fairness, integrity, and excellence.

The new season approaches and fans can look forward to a more refined and professional officiating, which will undoubtedly contribute to a more enjoyable and competitive NPFL campaign.

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The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has announced the appointment of German tactician Bruno Labbadia as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles.

The 57-year-old Labbadia, who has previously coached top German clubs like Hertha Berlin and VfB Stuttgart, takes over the reins of the three-time African champions with immediate effect.

Labbadia’s appointment was confirmed by NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, in the early hours of Tuesday. “The NFF Executive Committee has approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Sub-Committee to appoint Mr. Bruno Labbadia as the Head Coach of the Super Eagles,” Sanusi said.

READ MORE: Edo Queens FC to celebrate CAF Women’s Champions League WAFU-B Qualifiers victory with trophy parade in Benin-City

Born in Darmstadt, Germany, Labbadia had a distinguished playing career, winning two caps for Germany and triumphing in the German Bundesliga with Bayern Munich in 1994. He holds a UEFA Pro License and has coached several top German clubs, including VfL Wolfsburg, Hamburger SV, and Bayer Leverkusen.

Labbadia becomes the sixth German to lead the Super Eagles, following in the footsteps of Karl-Heinz Marotzke, Gottlieb Göller, Manfred Höner, Berti Vogts, and Gernot Rohr. Höner led the Eagles to a runner-up finish at the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations, while Rohr qualified and led Nigeria to the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals in Russia.

Super Eagles players all smiles, training in camp. 

Labbadia’s immediate challenge is to prepare the Super Eagles for two crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda next month. The German tactician will also oversee four other qualifying matches in October and November as Nigeria seeks to secure a spot at the continental showpiece.

The appointment of Labbadia has raised eyebrows, given his lack of experience in African football. However, his impressive coaching credentials and experience in the highly competitive German Bundesliga make him an attractive choice for the Super Eagles.

Labbadia begins his tenure and Nigerian football fans will be eagerly watching to see if he can replicate the success of his predecessors and lead the Super Eagles to glory on the continental stage.

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