Tag: General Sports

Former Flying Eagles coach, Ladan Bosso, has dismissed rumours circulating about his alleged appointment as an Assistant Coach for the Super Eagles, labeling the reports as a “figment of the imagination.”

Last week, reports surfaced claiming that Bosso, along with Rangers International Head Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, had been appointed as home-based assistants to work with the Super Eagles’ head coach.

However, Bosso has categorically denied these claims, expressing surprise and disbelief at the news.

Reacting to the rumors, Bosso laughed off the notion, questioning the credibility of the reports. “That’s not true because I have not been contacted by the Nigeria Football Federation over being picked as the Assistant Coach,” he stated.

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

Bosso also pointed out the unusual nature of the situation, rhetorically asking, “Have you ever heard where assistant coaches were announced without the Head Coach being appointed first?” He went on to describe the reports as “propaganda,” insisting that if there were any truth to the claims, he would be the first to know.

As the Super Eagles prepare for their upcoming 2025 African Nations Cup qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda in early September, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has yet to officially name a new head coach following the resignation of Finidi George in June.

The Super Eagles are scheduled to host Benin Republic on September 7th in Nigeria before traveling to face Rwanda on Matchday 2, three days later. The uncertainty surrounding the coaching staff continues to be a topic of discussion as the team gears up for these crucial fixtures.

Source

Nigerian-born New Zealand mixed martial artist, Israel Adesanya, arrived in Lagos on Thursday, August 22, 2024, with his parents, following his defeat to South African Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305.

The middleweight title fight saw Du Plessis force Adesanya to submit in the fourth round, retaining his title and earning the opportunity to defend it next in South Africa.

Israel Adesanya submitted to Du Plessis on the 4th rounds

Adesanya’s return to Nigeria was met with a warm welcome from fans at the Lagos airport. A group of local drummers performed Yoruba music to receive the fighter, who refers to himself as “Omo Oba,” meaning the king’s son or prince. The welcoming crowd showed their support and admiration for Adesanya despite his recent loss.

READ MORE: Nigerian athletes make mark in the US, join NCAA program

The UFC 305 fight was preceded by a press conference where Du Plessis taunted Adesanya’s heritage.

However, Adesanya’s arrival in Lagos showcased the love and respect he receives from his Nigerian fans. The fighter shared a video of his arrival on Instagram, which was recirculated on X.

Adesanya, in the company of his parents were greeted to a warm welcome at the Lagos International airport.

Adesanya’s loss at UFC 305 marked a setback in his career, but his fans remain loyal and supportive. The Nigerian-born style-blender is known for his skills in the octagon and his charismatic personality outside of it. His return to Lagos is a testament to his connection with his roots and his people.

In other news, UFC President Dana White has promised that Du Plessis will defend his title next in South Africa. This announcement comes after Du Plessis’s victory over Adesanya, solidifying his position as the middleweight champion.

Current UFC Champion Du Plessis

Adesanya’s future in the UFC is uncertain, but his fans remain hopeful for his return to the octagon. The fighter’s dedication to his craft and his connection with his roots make him a beloved figure in the world of mixed martial arts.

Source

Despite Nigeria’s underwhelming performance at the recent Paris Olympics, two talented athletes have taken a significant step forward in their careers.

Justina Eyakpobeyan and Olayinka Olajide have joined the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCAA) program in the United States, marking a new chapter in their athletic journey.

Eyakpobeyan, a rising star in track and field, has signed with the University of South Carolina. This move is expected to provide her with top-notch training and resources, enabling her to excel in her craft.

The university’s program has a proven track record of helping athletes reach their full potential, making it an ideal platform for Eyakpobeyan to grow and develop.

Olajide, who made history by winning all three medal colors at the 2024 African Games, will join forces with fellow Nigerian athletes Ruth Usoro and Temitope Adesina at Texas Tech. This reunion is expected to create a formidable team dynamic, pushing each athlete to new heights.

This development is a testament to the growing talent and ambition of Nigerian athletes. By joining the NCAA program, Eyakpobeyan and Olajide are not only advancing their careers but also putting Nigeria on the global athletic map.

READ MORE: What Sevilla coach said after Iheanacho and Ejuke’s La-Liga debut

Their move to the US is a strategic one, providing them with access to world-class facilities, coaching, and competition. This exposure will undoubtedly enhance their skills and prepare them for international events, including the Olympics.

As Nigeria continues to develop its athletic programs, the success of Eyakpobeyan and Olajide serves as a beacon of hope. Their achievements demonstrate that with dedication, hard work, and the right opportunities, Nigerian athletes can compete at the highest level.

The NCAA program is renowned for its rigorous standards, and the inclusion of these two athletes is a testament to their exceptional talent. As they embark on this new chapter, they will undoubtedly face challenges, but their determination and passion for their craft will drive them to succeed

The addition of Justina Eyakpobeyan and Olayinka Olajide to the NCAA program is a significant milestone for Nigerian athletics. Their journey will be closely watched, and their success will inspire a new generation of athletes to strive for excellence.

Source

Nigerian defender Ekerette Udom has made a significant move in his football career by signing with Spanish side Villarreal B. The tall and commanding defender recently flew into Spain to finalise the transfer, and he has committed to a three-year contract with the club.

Villarreal B, the reserve team of Villarreal CF, is a well-established side based in Villarreal, Valencia. Founded in 1999, the team competes in the Primera Federación – Group 2, a competitive league that has seen many talented players develop and eventually break into top-tier football. The team plays its home matches at the Estadio de la Cerámica, which boasts a seating capacity of 23,008, providing a robust environment for nurturing young talents.

Udom’s journey to Villarreal B is a testament to his hard work and dedication on the pitch. Last season, he represented Rivers United FC in the CAF Confederation Cup after making the switch from Sunshine Stars. His career began in his hometown of Akwa Ibom State, where he played for Ibom Youths FC.

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

Over the years, Ekerette Udom has gained valuable experience playing for various Nigerian clubs, including Nasarawa United and Dakkada FC in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL). He was also one of the founding players for Vandrezzer FC in the Nigeria National League.

This move to Villarreal B represents a new chapter in Udom’s career, as he looks to further develop his skills and make a name for himself in European football. His journey from the Nigerian leagues to Spain’s competitive football landscape is a proud moment for both the player and his supporters back home.

Source

Sevilla’s Nigerian duo, Kelechi Iheanacho and Chidera Ejuke, made their La Liga debut in the team’s 2-1 loss to Villareal. Despite the defeat, head coach Garcia Pimienta praised their performances, highlighting areas for improvement.

Ejuke impressed with his brief display, creating dangerous one-on-one situations and unbalancing plays.

Pimienta commended his efforts, urging him to be more consistent and finish plays. “He has to be much more consistent and finish the play, but he’s a player we consider, and we’ve seen that he’s done very well,” Pimienta said.

READ MORE: Edo Queens crowned WAFU B champions, secure CAF women’s champions league spot

Iheanacho, however, struggled with fitness issues, affecting his performance. Pimienta acknowledged this, stating, “Perhaps he was the one who had the most problems because he played for less time.” Despite this, Iheanacho moved well and had a clear chance to score, which the goalkeeper saved.

Pimienta emphasized the importance of having high-quality players, both starting and on the bench, capable of changing the game. Sevilla’s slow start to the season, with just one point from two games, underscores the need for improvement.

Chidera Ejuke featured for Sevilla during pre-season

Iheanacho and Ejuke will continue to adapt to their new team as they will be crucial in Sevilla’s quest to climb the table. With Pimienta’s guidance, they can refine their skills and make a significant impact in La Liga.

The Nigerian duo have been a crucial part of the Super Eagles squad and may be included in the Nigerian team that will face Benin Republic in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.

Iheanacho joined Sevilla after 7 years in English Premier League side Leicester City who gained promotion back to the Premier League, clinching the championship title with Super Eagles Iheanacho playing a very crucial role alongside another Nigerian marksman Wilfred Ndidi.

Ejuke in the same vein Joined Sevilla  on the 17 June 2024, following the expiration of his contract at CSKA Moscow.

Source

Udinese celebrated their first victory of the 2024/25 Serie A season with a 2-1 win over Lazio, with Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye playing a key role in the triumph.

Maduka Okoye, who recently extended his contract with Udinese, was in fine form between the sticks for the Italian side. Dele-Bashiru, also making his second Serie A start of the season, was in the starting lineup for Lazio.

The match kicked off at the Dacia Arena, and it wasn’t long before the home side took a surprise lead. Florian Thauvin delivered a precise cross from the right flank, allowing Lorenzo Lucca to head the ball into the net from close range, putting Udinese 1-0 up.

Despite Lazio’s efforts to exert pressure and create chances, they were unable to break down the Udinese defense or find the back of the net in the first half.

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

The second half saw Udinese maintain their composure and control, which led to a second goal. Thauvin, again proving crucial, made a dazzling solo run into the box and fired a shot past Lazio’s goalkeeper Ivan Provedel into the bottom left corner, doubling Udinese’s lead.

Udinese’s task became more challenging when Hassane Kamara was shown a red card following a second yellow, reducing the home side to 10 men.

Lazio managed to pull one back in injury time when Gustav Isaksen latched onto a rebound inside the box and shot the ball low into the right post. However, it was not enough to overturn the deficit.

The match ended with Udinese claiming a 2-1 victory, marking their first Serie A win of the season. Maduka Okoye’s impressive performance was instrumental in securing the three points for Udinese, showcasing his valuable contribution to the team.

Source

Former coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, José Peseiro, has praised Ademola Lookman, stating that the winger is technically superior to his national teammate Victor Osimhen.

In a recent interview with Italian football news outlet SportItalia, Peseiro highlighted the strengths of both players but emphasized Lookman’s technical abilities.

“Ademola is more technical than Osimhen, more inclined to create the game, and he is now also scoring,” Peseiro said.

READ MORE: Tobi Amusan poised for return after Paris Olympics setback

“He is performing very well this year. He grew up with [Atalanta manager] Gian Piero Gasperini; now he is always playing, and we are happy with him. At a high level, he, too, can aspire to do great things.”

Peseiro credited the players’ growth to the strong systems in which they are playing. “It’s no coincidence that they’ve both grown this year. This is because they’re both within a good system of play,” he added.

Lookman has been a key player for Atalanta this season, and his performances have caught the eye of many, including Peseiro, who managed the Super Eagles before parting ways with the team.

Source

Rangers International head coach, Fidelis Ilechukwu, has voiced his concerns over his team’s poor goal conversion rate in the ongoing 2024/2025 CAF Champions League. Despite qualifying for the second preliminary round, Ilechukwu was not entirely satisfied with his team’s performance.

Rangers, the reigning Nigeria league champions, advanced to the next round with a 2-1 aggregate victory over Comoros Islands champions, U.S. de Zilimadjou. In the second leg of the first preliminary round, held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, August 23, 2024, the ‘Flying Antelopes’ were held to a 1-1 draw by their opponents from the small island nation.

READ MORE: José Peseiro: Ademola Lookman is technically better than Victor Osimhen

In his post-match interview, Ilechukwu expressed mixed feelings about the result. “We are happy to have qualified for the next round of the competition,” he said. “However, I believe that we did not up our game today against the Comoros champions. This goes a long way to show the mystery of the game of football.”

The coach also addressed the team’s struggles in front of goal, saying, “Sure, I am worried about our rate of converting chances, but I am optimistic about getting over this challenge before the next window for new registration. I believe that the start of the new league season will go a long way in helping us stabilize with regards to cohesive play from my players.”

Despite the draw, Rangers have secured their place in the next round, where they will face either St. Louis F.C of Seychelles or Sagrada Esperanca F.C of Angola. The Angolan side holds a 1-0 advantage from the first leg played in Seychelles last week.

Source

Nigeria’s Alex Iwobi was the hero as Fulham bounced back from a defeat against Manchester United to secure a crucial 2-1 victory over Leicester City in their Premier League clash at Craven Cottage on August 24, 2024.

Iwobi’s 70th-minute strike proved to be the match-winner, marking his return to goalscoring form and giving Fulham their first win of the season. The Super Eagles midfielder was instrumental in ensuring Marco Silva’s men responded positively after a disappointing late loss to Manchester United in their season opener.

Fulham started the match with determination, eager to get their first points on the board. They took the lead in the 18th minute through Emile Smith Rowe, who finished off a brilliant counterattacking move initiated by Adama Traore. Traore’s run through the central areas allowed him to release Smith Rowe, who confidently slotted the ball past Leicester’s goalkeeper, Mads Hermansen, with his weaker foot.

READ MORE: José Peseiro: Ademola Lookman is technically better than Victor Osimhen

Leicester City, however, managed to equalize 20 minutes later. A corner delivery from Facundo Buonanotte found Wout Faes unmarked in the box, and the center-back powered a downward header into the net to make it 1-1.

The second half saw Fulham relentlessly pushing for a winner, encouraged by the home crowd. Their efforts finally paid off in the 70th minute when Iwobi was set up by full-back Antonee Robinson. Iwobi made a run into space and finished with his weaker foot, echoing Smith Rowe’s earlier strike, to restore Fulham’s lead.

Despite Leicester’s late attempts to salvage a point, Fulham held on to claim their first victory of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign, with Iwobi’s goal making the difference. The win provided a much-needed boost for Marco Silva’s side as they look to build momentum early in the season.

Source

Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, secured a 2-1 victory over Australia in a friendly match held in Colombia on Friday, as they prepare for the 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup.

The match was a part of the Falconets’ warm-up games arranged by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to help the team acclimatize and fine-tune their strategies ahead of the tournament.

After the friendly, the Australian team officials requested a penalty shootout practice, which the Falconets also won, edging out Australia 4-3 in the shootout.

An NFF official present at the match praised the team’s performance, stating, “The team is in high spirits. As I speak with you, we (Falconets) just defeated Australia 2-1 in their first friendly match. And also beat them 5-4 in a penalty shootout challenge. They played well and deserved the victory.”

READ MORE: Falconets in Colombia for a two-week training camp ahead of the U-20 Women’s World Cup

The Falconets are drawn in Group D for the World Cup, alongside Germany, Venezuela, and Korea Republic. The NFF has arranged additional friendly matches for the team as part of their final preparations before their first group match against Korea Republic on Monday, September 2nd.

Following their opener against Korea Republic, the Falconets will face Germany on Wednesday, September 4th, before concluding the group stage with a match against Venezuela.

The 2024 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup will be hosted by Colombia from August 31 to September 22, 2024. This will be the third time Colombia has hosted a FIFA tournament and the first time it has hosted a FIFA women’s tournament. Spain enters the competition as the defending champions.

Source