Tag: General Sports

Coachless Super Eagles of Nigeria is set to open camp for AFCON 2025 qualifiers.The Nigerian national will commence preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda on September 1.

The team will face Benin Republic on September 7 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, before traveling to Kigali to take on Rwanda three days later.

With the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) yet to announce a substantive head coach, Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen is expected to lead the team for the two games.

The list of invited players for the qualifiers has also not been made public, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the announcement.

READ MORE: NFF to delay appointment of Super Falcons head coach until 2025

The Super Eagles will be looking to make a strong start to their AFCON 2025 campaign, having won the tournament three times in the past. The team has been without a head coach since the departure of Jose Peseiro, and the NFF has been under pressure to appoint a suitable replacement.

Eguavoen, a former Super Eagles coach, is well-equipped to lead the team on an interim basis, having previously managed the side. However, the NFF’s failure to appoint a substantive head coach has raised concerns among fans and stakeholders.

The AFCON 2025 qualifiers will be a stern test for the Super Eagles, with Benin Republic and Rwanda posing significant threats. The team will need to be at their best to secure maximum points from the two games and set themselves up for a successful campaign.

The Super Eagles prepare to open camp and fans will be eagerly watching to see which players will be selected for the qualifiers. With a talented pool of players to choose from, Eguavoen will have a tough task in selecting his starting lineup.

The AFCON 2025 qualifiers promise to be an exciting and challenging campaign for the Super Eagles. With the team’s preparations set to begin in earnest, fans will be hoping for a strong start to the campaign and a successful journey to the tournament.

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In preparation for the upcoming 2024-25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, Sunshine Stars have announced the adoption of Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu Ode as their temporary home ground.

This decision comes after their original home ground, the Akure Township Stadium, failed to meet the standards required by the NPFL.

The Owena Waves will host Bayelsa United in their opening fixture of the new season at their temporary home ground, as they look to start the campaign on a positive note. Sunshine Stars have been busy strengthening their squad with quality signings, aiming to make a significant impact in the new season.

READ MORE: Genk striker Toluwalase Arokodare dismisses Trabzonspor links

The 2024-25 NPFL season is set to commence on Saturday, August 31, and Sunshine Stars are eager to get off to a strong start. The team has been working hard in pre-season, and the adoption of Dipo Dina Stadium as their temporary home ground provides them with a suitable venue to showcase their talents.

While the Akure Township Stadium undergoes necessary renovations to meet the NPFL standards, Sunshine Stars will utilize the Dipo Dina Stadium, which has previously hosted several high-profile matches. The team’s management expressed their confidence in the new temporary home ground, stating that it will provide an ideal environment for their players to perform at their best.

The new season approaches and Sunshine Stars fans will be eagerly anticipating the team’s performance, and the adoption of Dipo Dina Stadium as their temporary home ground is a positive step towards a successful campaign. With their strengthened squad and new home ground, the Owena Waves are poised to make a significant impact in the 2024-25 NPFL season.

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Remo Stars coach Daniel Ogunmodede is bracing himself for a challenging encounter against AS FAR in Rabat on Sunday, as his team seeks to advance to the next phase of the CAF Champions League.

The Nigerian representative secured a narrow 2-1 advantage in the first leg, but Ogunmodede is aware that the return leg will be an uphill task.

In a video interview, Ogunmodede acknowledged the enormity of the task ahead, stating, “We expect a lot of hostility and antics on and off the field. We are used to them, and we will be well-prepared. We have answers, and we are ready for that.”

READ MORE: Sunshine Stars adopt Dipo Dina Stadium as temporary home ground for 2024-25 NPFL season

Ogunmodede emphasized the need for improvement in attack and finishing, recognizing that a 1-0 loss could knock Remo Stars out of the competition. He noted that the away goal concept, still applicable in the CAF Champions League, makes the return leg even more crucial.

Reflecting on the first leg, Ogunmodede rued missed opportunities in the first half and a slow start to the second half, which allowed AS FAR to gain momentum. He acknowledged that his team has learned from these mistakes and is ready to face the challenges ahead.

With the away goal advantage still in play, Remo Stars must be cautious and focused to secure a positive result in Rabat. Ogunmodede’s strategy and the team’s preparation will be put to the test as they seek to overcome the North African opponent and advance in the competition.

The return leg promises to be an intense and thrilling encounter, with Remo Stars’ CAF Champions League aspirations hanging in the balance. Will they be able to overcome the odds and secure a spot in the next phase, or will AS FAR capitalize on home advantage to turn the tie around? The stage is set for an exciting showdown in Rabat.

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Nigerian 18-year-old midfielder Ammeer Auwal Suleiman, popularly known as Kaka, has signed with second-tier Croatian side NK Rudeš. The talented youngster joins from Ojodu City FC in Lagos, where he impressed scouts with his performances at the 2024 Viareggio tournament in Italy.

Kaka’s journey to professional football is a testament to his dedication and resilience. From playing on the streets of Kano State to signing with a European club, the midfielder has come a long way. His dreams of playing for Barcelona and performing at the Camp Nou are within reach, and this move marks a significant step towards achieving his goals.

At the Viareggio tournament, Kaka helped Ojodu City FC reach the semi-finals, where they lost to Beyond Limits Football Academy. His performances caught the attention of several scouts, leading to negotiations and ultimately, his signing with NK Rudeš.

READ MORE: CAF CL: Ogunmodede expects a very tough clash against AS FAR in Rabat

This move is a significant milestone for Nigerian football, showcasing the talent and potential of the country’s young players. Kaka’s success will undoubtedly inspire others to follow in his footsteps, and his journey will be closely watched by fans and scouts alike.

Kaka begins his European adventure and he will face new challenges and opportunities. With his mentality and resilience, he is well-equipped to succeed and make a name for himself in the world of football.

The signing of Kaka by NK Rudeš is a testament to the growing recognition of Nigerian talent in European football. As more players make the move abroad, the country’s football scene is set to benefit from the exposure and experience gained by its young stars.

With his sights set on the top, Kaka is ready to take the European football scene by storm. His journey is just beginning, and fans will be eagerly watching his progress as he strives to achieve his dreams.

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The Nigeria U-20 women’s football team, the Falconets, have fully recovered from their long journey to Colombia and are ready to take on Australia’s U-20 team in the first of two friendly matches. These games are part of their preparation for the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, scheduled to take place in Colombia from August 31 to September 22.

Under the guidance of Coach Chris Danjuma, along with fitness trainer Chima Michael, the Falconets have been undergoing rigorous drills since Monday. The upcoming match against Australia is set for 10am Colombia time (4pm Nigeria time) on Friday at the Club Banco de la República in Bogota.

The Falconets’ squad has been strengthened by the inclusion of several players with experience in the Nigeria senior team, the Super Falcons. This includes defenders Jumoke Alani, Rofiat Imuran, Comfort Folorunsho, and forwards Opeyemi Ajakaye, Chiamaka Okwuchukwu, and Flourish Sabastine. Notably, Folorunsho and Ajakaye were part of the Nigeria U17 team that secured third place at the FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup in India two years ago.

These seasoned players, combined with the exciting talents of defender Shukurat Oladipo, Chioma Olise, captain Oluchi Ohaegbulam, and forward Juliet Akekoromowei, have raised expectations for the team.

After facing Australia, the Falconets will play another friendly match against Mexico at the same venue on Monday.

READ MORE: Ola Aina Injured Ahead of AFCON Qualifiers

NIGERIA’S SQUAD FOR FIFA U20 WOMEN’S WORLD CUP COLOMBIA 2024:

Goalkeepers: Anderline Mgbechi (Delta Queens); Faith Omilana (Naija Ratels); Shukura Bakare (Nasarawa Amazons).

Defenders: Oluchi Ohaegbulem (Nasarawa Amazons); Shukurat Oladipo (FC Robo Queens); Jumoke Alani (Nasarawa Amazons); Comfort Folorunsho (Edo Queens); Rofiat Imuran (Unattached); Oluwabunmi Oladeji (Naija Ratels).

Midfielders: Adoo Yina (Nasarawa Amazons); Chioma Olise (Edo Queens); Olushola Shobowale (Nasarawa Amazons); Joy Igbokwe (Naija Ratels); Shakirat Oyinlola (La Liga Academy, Spain)

Forwards: Chiamaka Okwuchukwu (Rivers Angels); Mary Nkpa (Heartland Queens); Chiamaka Osigwe (Edo Queens); Janet Akekoromowei (Asisat Oshoala Academy); Flourish Sabastine (Stade de Reims, France); Aminat Bello (Otero College, USA); Opeyemi Ajakaye (Madrid CFF, Spain).

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Real Sociedad have launched a renewed effort to rebuild Nigerian forward Umar Sadiq’s confidence and reputation as the club’s key striker.

After a summer filled with uncertainty and transfer speculation, where Sadiq struggled to attract serious interest from other clubs, Real Sociedad’s president, Jokin Aperribay, has decided to focus on reintegrating the player into the squad rather than pursuing a transfer.

The decision to retain Sadiq comes as the transfer window approaches its end. Aperribay recognizes the importance of working closely with Sadiq to maximize his potential. Despite a season where Sadiq failed to reach his best form, the club appears committed to giving him another chance to prove he can fill the crucial No. 9 role that Real Sociedad desperately needs.

READ MORE: Nigeria U-20 women’s team to face Australia in pre-world cup friendly

Sadiq joined Real Sociedad in 2022 after an impressive stint at Almeria, where his goals helped the club secure promotion to La Liga. He made a promising start at Real Sociedad, scoring on his debut against Atlético Madrid shortly after his arrival. However, his momentum was halted by a severe injury during a La Liga match against Getafe, sidelining him for the rest of the season.

During the 2023–24 campaign, Sadiq made a gradual return to action, scoring his first goal of the season in a victory over Sevilla and adding another spectacular strike against Osasuna. Unfortunately, the season ended in disappointment as Sadiq managed only three goals and one assist in 26 league appearances.

Real Sociedad is now determined to help the 27-year-old striker regain his best form as they aim to improve on their sixth-place finish in La Liga last season.

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Lobi Stars have strengthened their squad with the addition of 15 new players in preparation for the upcoming 2024-25 Nigeria Premier Football League season. The signings include a mix of experienced players from top NPFL clubs and promising talents from academies in Benue State.

The new recruits include Ossy Martins, Hilega Bemshima, Komgbenda Joseph, Terna Peter Yoonen, and Aondoyavenga Japhet, among others.

Notable signings include Mathew Arinze, Segun Oluwatoba, Jimmy Iteji, and Akor Itodo, who joined from Abia Warriors, Ijebu United, Plateau United, and Gombe United respectively.

Other signings include Samuel Anefiok from Doma United, Valentine Igiga from Gombe United, Jide Williams from Bendel Insurance, and Ifeanyi Assurance from Bayelsa United. The remaining players were scouted from local academies in Benue State.

READ MORE: Kamaru Usman analyzes Israel Adesanya’s defeat to Dricus Du Plessis

Also, The new signings are currently training with the team in Jos, preparing for the season opener on August 31. Lobi Stars aim to strengthen their squad and improve their performance in the upcoming season.

However, this significant influx of new talent demonstrates Lobi Stars’ commitment to competitiveness and their ambition to make a strong impact in the NPFL. With a balanced blend of experience and youth, the team is poised for a successful campaign.

The NPFL season kicks off on August 31, and Lobi Stars will be looking to make a statement with their revamped squad. Fans can expect an exciting season with the new signings expected to bring fresh energy and skills to the team.

Lobi Stars Football Club (formerly known as Mosquito football club, Lobi Bank, BBL Hawks, and Hawks) is a Nigerian professional soccer club based in Makurdi, Benue.

The club competes in the Nigerian Professional Football League. The Stars’ home is the 8,000-seater Aper Aku Stadium.

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Plateau United has concluded plans to unveil new recruit ahead of the new season. The team is gearing up for the 2024-25 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season with a major squad overhaul. The team has announced plans to unveil their new players on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at the New Jos Stadium.

The unveiling ceremony was initially scheduled for earlier in the month but was postponed due to nationwide protests. The event is now set to take place on Tuesday, and fans are eagerly awaiting the introduction of the new players.

Plateau United finished fifth in the NPFL last season, failing to secure a continental ticket. To strengthen their squad, the team has brought in new talent, and the unveiling ceremony will mark the official introduction of these players.

READ MORE: Lobi Stars reinforce squad with 15 new signings

The team’s manager, Mbwas Mangut, has been working tirelessly to build a competitive squad, and the new signings are expected to bolster their chances in the upcoming season. Plateau United will kick off their campaign with a match against Katsina United.

The NPFL season is set to begin on August 31, and teams are finalizing their preparations. Plateau United’s unveiling ceremony is a significant event, and fans will be watching closely to see the new players in action.

With the addition of fresh talent, Plateau United is poised to make a strong impact in the NPFL this season. The team’s fans are optimistic about their chances, and the unveiling ceremony marks an exciting new chapter for the club.

The NPFL season approaches and Plateau United is ready to take on the challenge with their revamped squad. The unveiling ceremony on Tuesday will be a highly anticipated event, and fans will be eager to see the new players in action.

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As the Flamingos gear up for the 8th FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup, which will be held later this year in the Dominican Republic, Head Coach Bankole Olowookere has called up 35 players to the Nigerian camp for the final round of preparations. The team, known for its attacking prowess, aims to build on its successful qualification campaign as it prepares to compete on the global stage.

The Nigerian U17 girls were dominant in their World Cup qualifiers, scoring an impressive 25 goals across six matches. They secured overwhelming victories against the Central African Republic with a 6-0 scoreline in both legs, defeated Burkina Faso 7-1 on aggregate, and capped off their qualification with a 6-1 aggregate win over Liberia.

Leading the list of invited players is Harmony Chidi, who was the top scorer during the qualification series with a remarkable 13 goals. Chidi, along with her attacking partner Peace Effiong, is expected to be a key player for the Flamingos in the tournament. Other notable call-ups include team captain Taiwo Afolabi, goalkeeper Christiana Uzoma, and defender Prisca Nwachukwu.

The tournament will take place in the Dominican Republic from October to November, with matches being played in Santiago de los Caballeros and Santo Domingo.

READ MORE: CAF CL: Rangers International secure crucial away win against US Zilimadjou

Complete List of Invited Players:

Goalkeepers:

• Christiana Uzoma (Edo Queens)
• Elizabeth Boniface (Sunshine Queens)
• Sylvia Echefu (Confluence Queens)
• Mary Igieneh (Osun Babes)
• Juliana Simon (Youthsfon Kaduna)

Defenders:

• Prisca Nwachukwu (Imo Strikers)
• Jumai Adebayo (Naija Ratels)
• Taiwo Adegoke (Remo Stars Ladies)
• Oluwatoyin Olowookere (Ekiti Queens)
• Rokibat Azeez (New Generation FA)
• Hannah Ibrahim (Remo Stars Ladies)
• Vivian Ekezie (Heartland Queens)
• Ololade Isiaka (Abia Angels)
• Timilehin Faluyi (Asisat Oshoala Academy)
• Elizabeth Adesuyi (Castmog Ladies)

Midfielders:

• Taiwo Afolabi (Delta Queens)
• Mary Aderemi (Bayelsa Queens)
• Farida Abdulwahab (Nasarawa Amazons)
• Shakirat Moshood (Bayelsa Queens)
• Oghenemairo Obruthe (City Sports)
• Queen Joseph (Fosla Academy)
• Farikike Moses (Dannaz Queens)
• Amarachukwu Onuorah (Edo Queens)
• Justina Owolabi (Ondo State Academy)
• Adanna Nwachukwu (Naija Ratels)

Forwards:

• Yetunde Ayantosho (Heartland Queens)
• Harmony Chidi (Imo Strikers)
• Kudirat Arogundade (Green Foot)
• Ramota Kareem (Honey Badgers)
• Aisha Animashaun (Naija Ratels)
• Peace Effiong (Rivers Angels)
• Blessing Ifitezue (Delta Queens)
• Muinat Rotimi (Nakamura Football Academy)
• Aishat Bolarinwa (Ghetto Tigers)
• Azeezat Oluwole (Right Vision Academy)

The Flamingos are set to continue their preparations as they aim for a strong performance at the World Cup, building on their momentum from the qualification series.

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