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  • NPFL: Eyes on Lafia, Lagos,  Jos as  Matchday 23 takes centre stage

    NPFL: Eyes on Lafia, Lagos,  Jos as  Matchday 23 takes centre stage

    Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday 23 rolls out across today and tomorrow in what promises to be a defining midweek chapter of the season. With leaders Rivers United inactive due to CAF Champions League commitments, the door is ajar for ambitious chasers, desperate strugglers and derby rivals to reshape the narrative at both ends of the table, writes TUNDE LIADI.

    With Rivers United temporarily absent, the race to unseat the Pride of Rivers intensifies, and Nasarawa United stand as the only side capable of drawing level on points—provided they secure a convincing two-goal home victory over Enyimba in Lafia.

    Elsewhere, Abia Warriors, Ikorodu City, Bendel Insurance and Warri Wolves will be desperate to rediscover winning momentum to maintain their strong league positions.

    The midweek action opens with a fiery North West derby at the Sani Abacha Stadium today as Kano Pillars welcome Katsina United. Pillars will be eager to reassure their supporters that last weekend’s defeat to Wikki Tourists was merely a blip. For Katsina United, who dropped points at home against Plateau United, a positive result is crucial as they continue their battle to escape danger after losing their last two matches.

    In Lafia, Nasarawa United host Enyimba in a fixture that once defined elite NPFL rivalry. The Solid Miners know a handsome victory could temporarily lift them to the summit, though Rivers United would still have games in hand.

    Enyimba, meanwhile, find themselves just three points above the drop zone, and another setback could deepen unrest among supporters and the Abia State Government, owners of the club.

    Read Also: Man City vs. Galatasaray: Osimhen’s Turkish giants chase historic 250th  UCL goal

    The People’s Elephant are navigating a turbulent coaching transition, with Emmanuel Deutsch stepping in while reportedly working alongside newly announced coach Ayodeji Ayeni.

    At the New Jos Stadium, Plateau United face Rangers International in what marks Gbenga Ogunbote’s fourth match since returning to the dugout. The Peace Boys remain in the relegation zone and cannot afford to slip, but Rangers—fourth on the table and comfortable—arrive with confidence. For Ogunbote, fondly called The Oracle, victory against a former club would be priceless.

    In Umuahia, Abia Warriors seek redemption in another home fixture against Wikki Tourists after seeing their six-game unbeaten run snapped by Nasarawa United. The Umuchineke Boys still harbour top-three ambitions, but Wikki, buoyed by their win over Kano Pillars, are fighting for survival with just two points separating them from the drop zone.

    Bayelsa United return to Ozoro hoping to string together back-to-back home wins when they face Niger Tornadoes. The Prosperity Boys are edging toward mid-table security, but Tornadoes arrive confident after bouncing back from defeat to Nasarawa United with a win over Enyimba. It’s a clash that could swing either way.

    Tomorrow’s action sees Kun Khalifat hosting Kwara United in Owerri. Fresh from a gritty draw away to Remo Stars, the Pride of Imo need maximum points to keep survival hopes alive. However, Kwara United boast an impressive recent record in Owerri, remaining unbeaten there over the past two seasons.

    Lagos plays host to a South West derby as Ikorodu City take on Shooting Stars. Their first-round meeting ended in a draw, but with both sides level on 35 points in fifth and sixth respectively, bragging rights and league position are at stake. Ikorodu City, the Oga Boys, are under greater pressure to win with the loss in Maiduguri , while the Oluyole Warriors look slightly more settled.

    In another Ozoro’s  showdown, Warri Wolves battle reigning champions Remo Stars. Wolves are eager to bounce back from a heavy loss to Rangers, while Remo—surprisingly hovering close to the relegation zone—cannot afford another defeat as pressure mounts.

    In Benin City, Bendel Insurance aim to respond after their nine-game unbeaten run was halted by Shooting Stars. The Edo Arsenal remain formidable, boasting seven wins in their last ten outings, but Barau FC have shown a knack for springing surprises.

    Meanwhile, the Rivers United versus El-Kanemi Warriors fixture has been postponed due to Rivers United’s CAF Champions League engagement against Zambia’s Power Dynamos.

    NPFL MATCHDAY 23 FIXTURES:

    Ikorodu City vs. Shooting Stars

    Warri Wolves vs. Remo Stars

    Nasarawa United vs. Enyimba FC

    Abia Warriors vs. Wikki Tourists

    Kano Pillars vs. Katsina United

    Plateau United vs. Rangers

    Kun Khalifat FC vs. Kwara United

    Rivers United vs. El-Kanemi Warriors (Postponed)

    Insurance vs. Barau FC

    Bayelsa United vs. Niger Tornadoes

  • Sportivation Media launches digital Sports Radio Station

    Sportivation Media launches digital Sports Radio Station

    Sportivation Media has launched Sportivation Radio, a pioneering online sports radio station designed to deliver timely, credible and interactive sports content to audiences across Nigeria and the African diaspora.

    The launch represents a strategic step in the company’s mission to transform sports storytelling and analysis through innovative digital platforms that bridge the gap between traditional broadcasting and modern media consumption.

    Sportivation Radio offers a diverse programming lineup featuring live match commentary, expert analysis, athlete documentaries, game-day coverage, grassroots sports initiatives, and community-driven discussions spanning local and international sports scenes. The station also integrates entertainment content to create a holistic listening experience.

    Read Also: Super Falcons to grace WAFU B  tourney ahead of WAFCON

    Taiwo Ibrahim, Chief Executive Officer of Sportivation Media, explained the vision behind the platform: “Sportivation Radio was founded out of a deep passion for sports and recognition of a significant gap in how sports stories are told and consumed in Nigeria. Too often, coverage focuses solely on results and headlines while overlooking the people, struggles, growth, and societal impact behind the games.”

    Ibrahim emphasized the station’s commitment to depth and inclusivity: “We’ve created a credible platform that amplifies voices across the sports ecosystem—athletes, fans, coaches, administrators, media practitioners, and emerging talents at all levels. Through accurate reporting, thoughtful analysis, and meaningful conversations, we’re reflecting the true spirit of sports and its transformative role in society.”

    Staffed by experienced broadcasters, seasoned analysts, and emerging media talent, Sportivation Radio combines traditional broadcasting excellence with digital-first distribution strategies to engage Nigeria’s growing young, connected audience.

    A cornerstone of the station’s mission is talent development. “We’re committed to nurturing the next generation of sports media professionals and creating pathways for young Nigerians in sportscasting,” Ibrahim added.

  • Slot urges Liverpool to  fix ‘very bad cocktail’

    Slot urges Liverpool to  fix ‘very bad cocktail’

    Liverpool can end a tough season on a high if they eliminate a “very bad cocktail” of mistakes in defence and missed chances, manager Arne Slot said.

    The Reds can secure their spot in the Champions League last 16 with victory at home to Qarabag tonight  after a series of impressive wins against Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and Marseille.

    But the English champions have not won in five Premier League games to slip to sixth in the table and risk missing out on next season’s Champions League.

    Despite winning just the club’s second league title since 1990 last season, Slot’s own position has come under scrutiny, particularly with former Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso available after his departure from Real Madrid.

    A 3-2 defeat at Bournemouth on Saturday was Liverpool’s first loss in all competitions for 14 games but that run contained a number of disappointing draws.

    Slot told his pre-match press conference that Liverpool often created far more chances than their opponents without equivalent reward.

    “That’s a very bad cocktail we are having,” he said. “If we can improve in both boxes, we can do very special things this season.

    “If we can only improve in one box, then it’s going to be probably an acceptable season, but not more than that. And if we can’t improve in both boxes, it’s going to be a lot of noise throughout the whole season.”

    Slot, in his second season at Anfield, has been badly hampered by injuries.

    Forward Alexander Isak will miss most of the rest of the season after breaking his leg while Liverpool will have to field a makeshift centre-back against Azerbaijani team Qarabag.

    Read Also: Man City vs. Galatasaray: Osimhen’s Turkish giants chase historic 250th  UCL goal

    Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni are out injured, while Ibrahima Konate is absent on compassionate leave following the death of his father.

    Midfielder Wataru Endo is expected to deputise alongside Virgil van Dijk, who at 34 is Slot’s only available centre-back.

    “There are no centre-backs available apart from Virgil,” said Slot. “He is one of the players I credit a lot for him being fit all the time at his age, constantly be ready to play another 90 (minutes).

    “That is something we should not take for granted.”

    Liverpool have apparently pulled the plug on the potential transfer of veteran defender Andy Robertson to Tottenham.

    “It’s good to have him here,” said Slot. “It’s hard to say anything definite in this world we are in, but I expect him to stay, yes.”

  • Arteta issues rallying cry after Arsenal wobble

    Arteta issues rallying cry after Arsenal wobble

    Mikel Arteta promised that Arsenal would play with “courage and conviction” for the rest of the season after their surprise defeat by Manchester United slowed their Premier League title charge.

    Arsenal, who remain four points clear of second-placed Manchester City, host Kazakhstan’s Kairat Almaty in the Champions League tonight, aiming to complete the tournament’s league phase with a perfect record.

    The Gunners, who have seven wins out of seven in Europe this season, have already secured a place in the last 16, meaning they avoid a potentially tricky play-off next month.

    They are also still alive in both domestic cup competitions.

    Arsenal boss Arteta was asked at his pre-match press conference  about his team’s reaction to Sunday’s surprise 3-2 defeat against United – a first home loss of the season.

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    “The reaction has been excellent,” said the Spaniard. “We took a moment to bring the temperature down, to pause and to reflect and ask two questions.

    “One is, how do we feel and how do I feel myself? And then, how we are going to live the next four months?

    “And it was so encouraging and beautiful because what came out of that is very simple – we have earned the right to be in a great position in four competitions.”

    Arsenal’s slip-up against Michael Carrick’s resurgent United followed 0-0 draws against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest.

    But Arteta promised that the Gunners would be fearless as they chase a first Premier League title since 2004.

    “In the next four months, we are going to live and play with enjoyment, with a lot of courage and with the conviction that we are going to win it,” he said.

    “And this is going to be the mind-set and where we are going to put the energy and I’m just hoping that everybody that is related to this club, especially our supporters, jump on the boat.”

    William Saliba and Jurrien Timber are not available to face Almaty due to “slight niggles” while Mikel Merino and Declan Rice are suspended.

  • Brazil to bid for 2029 Club World Cup

    Brazil to bid for 2029 Club World Cup

    Brazil intends to bid for the 2029 Club World Cup, Brazilian Football Confederation head Samir Xaud confirmed on Monday following a meeting between the country’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and FIFA chief Gianni Infantino.

    The announcement was made after a high-level gathering at the Planalto Palace in Brasília, which included Sports Minister Andre Fufuca and Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti.

    “We believe Brazil is capable of hosting this grand event, but it requires a lot of discussions and adjustments. However, Brazil will indeed submit its bid for 2029,” Xaud told the country’s official news agency Agencia Brasil.

    Read Also: Man City vs. Galatasaray: Osimhen’s Turkish giants chase historic 250th  UCL goal

    FIFA has yet to open the bidding for the 2029 tournament. The first expanded version of the Club World Cup was held last year in the United States, with Chelsea emerging as champions. Rival bids are expected from Spain, Morocco and Qatar.

    While Spain and Morocco – plus Portugal – will stage the 2030 World Cup, the selection of hosts for the Club World Cup operates independently. This marks a departure from past practice, where tournaments like the Confederations Cup often served as test events for the World Cup.

    Infantino’s visit to Brazil coincided with events related to the 2027 Women’s World Cup, which Brazil will host for the first time. On Sunday, FIFA unveiled official branding for the event, which will feature 32 teams competing between June and July.

  • ‘Crazy’ comparing Yamal to Messi, says  Olmo

    ‘Crazy’ comparing Yamal to Messi, says  Olmo

    Barcelona midfielder Dani Olmo said it is “crazy” to compare teenage winger Lamine Yamal to club great Lionel Messi.

    Like Barca’s all-time top goalscorer Messi, Yamal came through the club’s feted La Masia youth academy and has often drawn comparisons to the Argentine forward, which he has tried to play down.

    Yamal, 18, scored a brilliant acrobatic goal on Sunday as Barcelona beat Real Oviedo 3-0 to move top of La Liga.

    “I think Lamine has his path and he knows it. Comparing any player playing now with Messi is crazy,” Olmo told a news conference ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League match against Copenhagen.

    “Lamine is a ‘spectacle’, he is very young, what he’s giving us now is incredible and in the future it will be a lot more.”

    Read Also: Super Falcons to grace WAFU B  tourney ahead of WAFCON

    Yamal made his Barcelona debut at the age of 15 and has broken several records in his first seasons at the club, including becoming the youngest La Liga goalscorer.

    The winger lifted the Euro 2024 trophy with Spain and was vital in Barca’s run to the Champions League semi-finals last season.

    ”(Yamal) is calm, he has his path and his idea. We will be there to help him, that’s our job,” added Olmo.

    “It’s a collective thing in the end. If Lamine plays well, wins, scores goals, then the team will win.”

    Barcelona host Copenhagen today, needing to win and hope other results go their way to seal a top eight league phase spot to progress directly to the last 16.

    The Spanish champions will be without injured midfielder Pedri Gonzalez as well as the suspended Frenkie de Jong, but Ferran Torres may return after injury, said coach Hansi Flick.

    “We have to play this match and respect Copenhagen, they have a fantastic team, and play at our top level,” said Flick.

    “We have a big chance to finish in the (top) eight; we will do everything we can to reach it.”

  • Australian Open: Alcaraz tames De Minaur to reach semi-finals

    Australian Open: Alcaraz tames De Minaur to reach semi-finals

    Carlos Alcaraz charged into the Australian Open semi-finals for the first time in his career with a dominant 7-5 6-2 6-1 victory over local favourite Alex de Minaur, keeping his bid for a career Grand Slam alive at Melbourne Park.

    The 22-year-old Spaniard swapped extravagance for efficiency at Rod Laver Arena to end the hopes of sixth seed De Minaur, who was aiming to end a five-decade Australian wait for a homegrown men’s champion at the tournament.

    A six-times major champion seeking to become the youngest man to win all four Grand Slam titles at least once, Alcaraz looked to be on course for a routine win but De Minaur made him work hard for it.

    “I’m really happy with the way I’m playing,” Alcaraz said. “I was increasing my level every match … talking with my team. After the first match, they said the level I want to play was going to come. I’m playing great tennis and really happy to get into the semi-finals.”

    Having broken De Minaur early to take a 3-0 lead, Alcaraz’s retooled serve came under heavy scrutiny in the fifth game when he faced three break points, as De Minaur refused to let the pressure get to him.

    The Australian retrieved relentlessly and broke back to level, before recovering another break in the ninth game and delighting the crowd by holding in the next, but some loose points allowed Alcaraz to edge a gripping opening set.

    “It’s really difficult. I started the match well and I was hitting well with seven or eight winners in the first few games. But Alex makes you rush all the time,” Alcaraz said about his opponent.

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    “You want to hit the ball as hard as you can, which is impossible against him. I took a moment … and then I was more patient after 4-4. You have to be really focused on every ball, win the point three or four times.”

    Alcaraz began the second set as he did the first and the top seed was in no mood to let the advantage slip this time, hitting two rasping backhand crosscourt winners to surge ahead 5-2 and tighten his grip on the match.

    A deflated De Minaur surrendered serve early in the third set and Alcaraz did not look back, wrapping up the victory and securing a clash with third seed Alexander Zverev in a rematch of their 2024 quarter-final that the German won.

    “I have to increase my level,” Alcaraz said.

    “I’ve seen him throughout the tournament and he’s playing great tennis. He’s solid, aggressive and serving well. I have to be ready. He beat me in practice before the tournament.

    “I have to play tactically really well. It’ll be a great battle and I’m looking to take revenge.”

  • Miyetti Allah leader, others held for alleged sponsorship of bandits in Kwara

    Miyetti Allah leader, others held for alleged sponsorship of bandits in Kwara

    Leaders of the Kwara State chapter of Miyetti Allah,  including their President, Idris Abubakar, have been arrested for alleged involvement in kidnapping and sponsorship of armed bandit groups in the state, it was gathered.

    Investigations indicated that Miyetti Allah leader reportedly admitted to aiding multiple kidnapping operations linked to Fulani bandits.

    Read Also: EFCC confirms moves to extradite Alison-Madueke

    Security source said: “These are men over 60 years old, individuals who should be voices of peace, now accused of fueling terror and violence.

    “This case exposes a deep moral failure by specific leaders, not a community , and it demands full accountability under the law.”

  • Suspect who sent bomb scare notice to Lagos schools in police custody

    Suspect who sent bomb scare notice to Lagos schools in police custody

    • Halimah Balogun

    The Lagos State Police Command has arrested one Kosisochukwu Ogumbo of Okota, Lagos, alleged to have sent a bomb threat message to two schools in the Ikeja Government Reserved Area(GRA) last week.

    It also arrested eight members of a notorious ‘one chance’ robbery syndicate and recovered four vehicles, used by the gang to rob unsuspecting public across the state.

    The development was confirmed by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police (CP) Olohundare Jimoh, at a press conference at the Command Headquarters in Ikeja.

    Read Also: EFCC confirms moves to extradite Alison-Madueke

    According to him, at 4:00 p.m. on January 20, 2026, the Human Resources Manager and Chief Security Officer of the affected schools reported to the Ikeja Divisional Police Headquarters that they had received threatening WhatsApp messages from the same unidentified number.

    The messages claimed that explosive devices had been planted within the school compound.

  • Fire service rescues 84-year-old man from well in Lagos

    Fire service rescues 84-year-old man from well in Lagos

    The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service yesterday rescued an 84-year-old man who fell into a deep well at Aboru, in the Agbado Oke-Odo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) of the state.

    The agency said it received a distress call about 10:09 a.m. reporting a rescue incident at No. 35A, Fadeyemi Street, Pipeline, Aboru. Rescue officers, working alongside personnel from the Abesan Fire Station, were dispatched to the scene and arrived at approximately 10:20 a.m.

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    According to the Controller-General, Margaret Adeseye, the victim was recovered from a well estimated to be about 140 feet deep.

    “Preliminary observations suggest a suspected case of attempted suicide, as the well was adequately protected and securely covered,” she said.

    She noted that the victim was recovered by the rescue team and subsequently handed over to the family members for further necessary attention. The cause of the incident is subjected to further investigation.