Tag: General Sports

In preparation for the highly anticipated FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, Nigeria’s Falconets have departed for a two-week training camp in Bogota, Colombia.

The team, led by Coach Chris Danjuma, arrived in Colombia and was greeted with a warm welcome, complete with traditional dances and flag-waving fans.

The Falconets will use this training camp to fine-tune their skills and strategies before the tournament kicks off on August 31.

During their stay in Colombia, the team will play friendly matches against Australia and Mexico to test their readiness for the competition .

READ MORE: MSport announce deal with Chelsea as official betting partner in Africa

The Nigeria women’s national under-20 football team, nicknamed the Falconets, represents Nigeria in international youth women’s football competitions. Its primary role is the development of players in preparation for the senior women’s national team.

Falconets were greeted to a colorful reception in Bogota, Colombia

The team competes in a variety of competitions, including the biennial FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup and African U-20 Women’s World Cup qualification, which are the top competitions for this age group.

Stay tuned for updates on the Falconets’ journey in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup. Will they be able to make it to the finals once again? Only time will tell.

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Kwara United Football Club has unveiled 17 new players to bolster their squad for the upcoming 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

The unveiling ceremony took place at the club’s secretariat in Ilorin, marking a significant milestone in the team’s preparation for the new season.

The new signings include notable players such as Ifeanyi Ogba, Oyeleso Suraj, and Akani Akeem, who will join the existing 18 players to form a strong squad of 35 players.

This move demonstrates the club’s commitment to building a competitive team capable of challenging for honors in the NPFL.

READ MORE: Sevilla Coach reveals why Chidera Ejuke didn’t debut against Las Palmas

The Harmony Waves, as Kwara United is fondly called, have been busy in the transfer market, strengthening their squad with a mix of experienced and young players.

The new players will bring fresh talent and energy to the team, which is expected to enhance their performance in the upcoming season.

The club’s officials and players recently returned to Ilorin after a productive camping exercise in Ikenne and Yenagoa, where they fine-tuned their tactics and built team cohesion.

The team will continue their preparation for the new season in Ilorin, with the technical crew working tirelessly to ensure they hit the ground running.

Kwara United’s unveiling of new players is a testament to the club’s ambition and determination to succeed in the NPFL. With a strong squad and a solid preparation, the Harmony Waves are poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.

In other NPFL news, Plateau United has signed 11 new players, while Enyimba has beefed up their squad with three new signings.

Sunshine Stars have adopted the Dipo Dina Stadium as their temporary home ground, and Lobi Stars have extended the contract of their player, Agagbe. These moves demonstrate the clubs’ commitment to building strong teams for the new season.

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Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) giants Enyimba have announced the signing of three new players ahead of the 2024/25 season.

The Aba-based club has bolstered its squad with the additions of Moses Adukwu, Anita Chigozie, and Asibe Nathaniel.

Adukwu joins from Plateau United, while Chigozie and Nathaniel come from Sporting Lagos and Coal City FC, respectively. The trio’s arrival is a significant boost to Enyimba’s squad, which was depleted by the departure of several key players at the end of last season.

READ MORE: Super Eagles set to open camp for AFCON 2025 qualifiers

The signings are a clear indication of Enyimba’s ambition to reclaim the NPFL title, which they last won in 2019. The club finished third in the league last season and has been busy strengthening its squad to challenge for honors in the upcoming campaign.

Enyimba recently confirmed Olanrewaju Yemi as their substantive head coach, and the new signings are expected to play a key role in his plans. Yemi will be looking to build on the club’s strong finish last season and mount a serious title challenge.

Adukwu, Chigozie, and Nathaniel will be expected to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact. Enyimba’s fans will be eager to see the new signings in action, and the trio will be under pressure to deliver.

The NPFL is set to kick off soon, and Enyimba will be looking to make a strong start. With the new signings, the club has sent a clear message of intent and will be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season.

Enyimba’s squad strengthening is a proof of the club’s commitment to success. The Aba giants have a rich history in Nigerian football, and the new signings are expected to help the club reclaim its place at the top of the NPFL.

The new season approaches and Enyimba’s fans will be eagerly awaiting the team’s first match. With the trio of new signings, the club has a strong foundation to build on and will be looking to make a serious challenge for the NPFL title.

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Arsenal are reportedly preparing a significant player-plus-cash offer for Atalanta’s standout winger, Ademola Lookman. The Gunners are eyeing a €50 million (£42.5m/$55.7m) bid, potentially sweetened by the inclusion of Polish defender Jakub Kiwior, as they seek to secure the services of the Nigerian forward before the transfer window closes.

Lookman, who played a pivotal role in Atalanta’s successful Europa League campaign last season, is keen to leave the Serie A side this summer. The 26-year-old winger had been linked with a move to Paris Saint-Germain, but the French champions failed to present a concrete offer, leaving the door open for Arsenal.

Reports from Sportitalia indicate that Arsenal’s interest in Lookman has intensified as they look to bolster their attacking options. The deal could also be structured as a loan with an option to buy, a flexible approach as the transfer deadline looms.

READ MORE: Super Eagles set to open camp for AFCON 2025 qualifiers

Lookman’s desire to depart Atalanta has become increasingly evident. He was notably absent from the squad in their Serie A opener against Lecce, reportedly at his own request, and he refused to participate in training on August 21. 

This behaviour has fueled speculation that Lookman is pushing for a transfer, with his future likely to be resolved in the coming days.

Liverpool have also expressed interest in the winger, with new head coach Arne Slot eyeing him as a potential signing. However, Arsenal appears determined to win the race for Lookman’s signature, with the player’s potential return to the Premier League being an enticing prospect for the North London club.

Arsenal defender Jakub Kiwior (Photo credit: Getty Images)

Atalanta values Ademola Lookman at around €70 million and is considering offering him an improved contract to retain him. The Nigerian international’s impressive tally of 11 goals and seven assists in 31 league appearances last season, including a hat-trick in the Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, has made him a sought-after asset in the transfer market.

For Arsenal, Lookman’s versatility as a left winger, central striker, and attacking midfielder is particularly appealing. Manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly eager to strengthen his squad’s attacking options as the Gunners aim to build on their recent Premier League title challenges.

The inclusion of Jakub Kiwior in the deal could be a strategic move for Arsenal. The Polish defender has found himself surplus to requirements at the Emirates Stadium, and his exclusion from the squad for Arsenal’s Premier League opener against Wolverhampton Wanderers suggests he may be on the move.

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Team33 Production has renewed its partnership with StarTimes as the official production partner for the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

This collaboration follows a successful partnership in the 2023 season and marks a major milestone in bringing Nigeria’s elite league back to television.

The five-year broadcast rights deal, valued at N1 billion, ensures that fans nationwide can enjoy live coverage of their favorite teams and players, with enhanced production value and innovative broadcasting techniques.

Team33 Production’s CEO and Founder, Chichi Nwoko, expressed her excitement about the renewed partnership, stating, “We are honored to continue our role as the official production company for the NPFL. Our partnership with StarTimes allows us to showcase the very best of Nigerian football to a wider audience.”

READ MORE: Enyimba strengthens squad for next season with three new signings

Nwoko further emphasized the significance of the five-year broadcast rights deal, saying, “It not only brings the league to a wider audience but also highlights the growth and potential of our sports industry.

Team33 Production is proud to be part of this journey, and we look forward to creating memorable experiences for fans, players, and everyone involved in the league.”

StarTimes’ Assistant Marketing Director, Lazarus Ibeabuchi, also expressed his delight in retaining Team33 Production as their official broadcast partner. “Their reputation for exceptional production quality aligns perfectly with our commitment to delivering a thrilling viewing experience,” he said.

NPFL Communications Director, Harry Iwuala, praised the partnership, stating, “StarTimes, through its production partners, Team33 Production, has made the live matches of the NPFL in the last season a delightful experience for fans who were unable to visit match venues. We look forward to greater engagement through this platform.”

This renewed partnership is a testament to the growth and potential of Nigerian football, and fans can expect an enhanced viewing experience with live coverage of their favorite teams and players. With Team33 Production’s expertise and StarTimes’ commitment to delivering quality broadcasting, the 2024/25 NPFL season promises to be an exciting one.

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Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has resumed training with Atalanta after a brief absence, amidst swirling transfer speculations linking him to top European clubs.

Lookman, who played a crucial role in Atalanta’s Europa League triumph last season, returned to training on Thursday, August 22, ending days of uncertainty regarding his future.

The Nigerian international had requested to be left out of Atalanta’s Serie A opener against Lecce, fueling rumors of a potential move to Paris Saint-Germain. However, with interest from the French giants reportedly waning, Lookman has made himself available for selection by Atalanta coach Gian Piero Gasperini.

READ MORE: Team33 production renews partnership with StarTimes for 2024/25 season

Earlier reports suggest that Atalanta met with Lookman’s representatives and addressed the issues amicably, with the club offering the forward fresh contracts and a salary increase. Lookman’s return to training is a significant boost for Atalanta as they prepare for the challenges ahead.

Ademola Lookman (Photo credit: Getty Images)

Despite his return, the transfer saga surrounding Lookman is far from over. Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City are reportedly eyeing the 26-year-old attacker, with the Gunners seemingly leading the race. Arsenal is poised to test Atalanta’s resolve with a €50 million bid plus defender Jakub Kiwior, according to reports.

Lookman has been instrumental in Atalanta’s success, contributing 32 goals and 18 assists in 79 appearances since joining from RB Leipzig in 2022. His presence in the squad is expected to strengthen Atalanta as they navigate the Serie A season.

The transfer speculations surrounding Lookman have been intense, with PSG initially linked to the Nigerian winger. However, Atalanta’s offer of a new salary and contract has seemingly convinced Lookman to stay, for now. The situation remains fluid, with top European clubs circling for the talented attacker.

The transfer window enters its final stages and Lookman’s future remains uncertain. Will he stay at Atalanta or make a move to a top European club? Only time will tell. One thing is certain, however – Ademola Lookman is a talent worth fighting for.

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Victor Boniface has been handed a one-game suspension and a hefty fine of €25,000 (approximately ₦43.8 million) by the German Football Association (DFB) for unsportsmanlike conduct during the Super Cup match against VfB Stuttgart.

The incident occurred after the final whistle, where Boniface allegedly made an obscene gesture towards Stuttgart players during post-match celebrations. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, Stuttgart players accused Boniface of the offensive act, leading to a heated exchange and tensions on the pitch.

The DFB Control Committee charged Boniface with “blatantly anti-sporting conduct” and issued the punishment, which has been accepted by the player and his club, making it legally binding.

READ MORE: Super Eagles Ademola Lookman returns to Atalanta training amidst Arsenal links

This incident has sparked controversy, especially given Boniface’s rising reputation in Germany. Last season, he was named Rookie of the Year following a stellar debut campaign, which played a crucial role in Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga triumph.

Boniface’s actions during the Super Cup have marred what was otherwise a celebratory moment for Leverkusen. The suspension and fine will be a setback for the Nigerian international, who has been making waves in the German football scene.

The incident serves as a reminder that players must conduct themselves in a sporting manner, even in the heat of the moment. Boniface will have to serve his suspension and fine, and hope to put this incident behind him as he continues to make a name for himself in German football.

Victor Okoh Boniface (born 23 December 2000) is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a striker for Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen and the Nigeria national team. Boniface is renowned for his pace, strength, dribbling ability, finishing and work ethic.

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Sevilla manager García Pimienta has shed light on why Nigerian forward Chidera Ejuke didn’t make his highly anticipated debut for the club in their Spanish La Liga opener against Las Palmas last Friday.

Despite joining the club on a free transfer from CSKA Moscow this summer and impressing during pre-season, Ejuke was surprisingly not handed his debut, sparking speculation among fans and pundits alike.

Pimienta revealed that Ejuke is “very good” and “ready to play,” but he had doubts about starting him against Las Palmas. The coach preferred Lucas Ocampos, one of Sevilla’s longest-serving players, over Ejuke in the clash.

Pimienta stated that the team was doing well in the last 15-20 minutes of the game, and he didn’t consider making a change, which ultimately meant Ejuke remained on the bench.

READ MORE: German FA Slams €25,000 Fine and One-Match Suspension on Super Eagles Victor Boniface

Ejuke will now have to work harder to force his way into the starting lineup, with Ocampos being an established player at the club.

The Nigerian forward has been largely underwhelming in recent years, which led to him losing his place at CSKA Moscow. He will be eager to avoid the same fate at Sevilla and prove himself as a valuable addition to the squad.

Chidera Ejuke signed for Sevilla from CSk Moscow this summer

The 26-year-old took part in pre-season and also featured during the 4-1 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, where he was credited with the assist for Sevilla’s only goal against the Premier League giants. Ejuke will be hoping to make his debut soon and prove himself as a reliable option for Pimienta.

With Sevilla facing Villarreal tomorrow, Ejuke will be eager to make an impact and show Pimienta that he is ready for regular playing time.

The Nigerian international has been capped eight times for his country and will be looking to make a name for himself in La Liga. Ejuke’s pace, skill, and versatility make him an exciting prospect, and fans will be hoping to see him on the pitch soon.

Pimienta’s decision to not start Ejuke against Las Palmas may have been a tactical one, but it’s clear that the Nigerian forward has a lot to offer.

The season progresses and it will be interesting to see how Ejuke fits into Pimienta’s plans and whether he can establish himself as a key player for Sevilla.

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Speculation around Victor Osimhen’s potential transfer from SSC Napoli to Chelsea has reached new heights after a social media post by fellow Nigerian international John Ogu.

The Super Eagles midfielder took to Twitter with a message that has sent shockwaves through the football community: “Osimhen to Chelsea… Here We Go.” The phrase, famously used by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, has led many to believe that a move is imminent.

Ogu’s tweet has garnered significant attention, especially considering his reported close friendship with Osimhen. While there has been no official confirmation from Chelsea, Napoli, or Osimhen himself, the post has intensified rumors about the striker’s future.

Victor Osimhen, 25, has become one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards since joining Napoli. His prolific goal-scoring abilities and dynamic playing style have made him a target for several top clubs, with Chelsea reportedly leading the race for his signature.

READ MORE: Nigerian Ammeer Kaka signs for Croatian side NK Rudeš

The Blues, currently under new ownership and management, have been actively rebuilding their squad, and adding a player of Osimhen’s caliber would be a significant boost. However, negotiations have been complicated by the substantial release clause Napoli included in his contract after winning the Serie A title.

Osimhen’s desire for a new challenge after helping Napoli secure their first Serie A title in 33 years has further fueled speculation about his departure. But until official statements are made, the transfer remains unconfirmed.

For now, Ogu’s tweet serves as a tantalizing hint at what could be one of the summer’s biggest transfers, keeping Chelsea fans and Nigerian football enthusiasts on edge as they await further developments.

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