The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Messi wins second consecutive MLS MVP award

    Messi wins second consecutive MLS MVP award

    Lionel Messi won his second consecutive Major League Soccer Most Valuable Player award on Tuesday after propelling Inter Miami to the MLS title and leading the league in goals.

    Messi became the first player to win back-to-back MLS MVP awards and only the second player in the league to capture two MVP awards after Preki in 1997 and 2003.

     “I’m happy to receive this award and be the first in the history of this league to win it in two consecutive years,” Messi said. “I’m very thankful.”

    The 38-year-old forward, who led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup crown, scored 29 goals in the regular season – the fourth-most in any MLS campaign – and set up 19 others to claim the MLS Golden Boot.

     “I’m thankful for this recognition,” Messi said. “It’s always nice to receive individual awards but I want to share it with my teammates. I was also fortunate to win the MLS Golden Boot thanks to the help of my teammates.”

    Messi, who signed a three-year contract extension with Miami in October, also became only the second player to lead the league in regular-season goals and assists, joining Toronto’s Sebastian Giovinco in 2015.

    Messi also netted six goals and created nine others in this year’s MLS playoffs, which concluded last weekend with Inter Miami beating Vancouver 3-1 for its first MLS Cup title, Messi delivering two key assists in the triumph to claim MLS Cup MVP honours.

    Read Also: UCL: Chelsea suffer setback as Atalanta take all three points

    It’s the latest award in a trophy haul for the South American maestro that includes a record eight Ballon d’Or titles, three FIFA Men’s Best Player awards and two FIFA World Cup Golden Balls.

    Messi was a runaway season MVP award winner with 70.43 per cent of total voting compared to 11.15 per cent for runner-up Anders Dreyer of San Diego FC. Messi took 83.05 per cent of media votes, 73.08 per cent of club votes and 55.17 per cent of player votes.

    He became the first MLS player with 10 multi-goal games in a season, breaking the old mark of eight shared by Stern John in 1998, Mamadou Diallo in 2000 and Zlatan Ibrahimovic in 2019.

    In 2024, Messi won the MLS MVP award with 20 goals and 16 assists over 19 matches.

    Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023 and helped the Herons hoist the Leagues Cup, a tournament for MLS and Mexican League clubs, that year and take the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield with a league-best 74 points in the regular season.

  • Conflicting claims over outstanding wages for Chelle

    Conflicting claims over outstanding wages for Chelle

    Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, is reportedly being  owed outstanding wages and bonuses just weeks before the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

    Initial claims suggested that the Franco-Malian tactician was being owed three months’ salary, raising fresh concerns over Nigeria’s recurring struggle to meet financial obligations to national team coaches.

    However, a top official of the National Sports Commission has reportedly told Osasu Obayiuwana   that Chelle was actually being owed two months but not three months’ salary.

    Read Also: UCL: Monaco edge Galatasaray as Balogun scores decisive 68th-minute goal

    According to the official, Chelle had been paid consistently since February until delays resurfaced around June and July—an issue that was later resolved. The current backlog, the official noted, covers September and October salaries, with assurances that payment will be made “very shortly.”

    Despite the arrears, Chelle—who guided Nigeria to the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs—has not lodged any formal complaint with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), his direct employer. The official further explained that while the Sports Commission oversees certain administrative matters, bonuses fall strictly under the jurisdiction of the NFF, meaning any unpaid bonuses must be addressed by the federation.

    The situation has once again triggered public debate over Nigeria’s continued pattern of wage delays for national team coaches. Many fans and analysts consider it a national embarrassment that these issues persist, especially on the eve of a major tournament.

    The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will begin in Morocco on December 21st  through January 11th , 2026 with Nigeria due to face Tanzania, Uganda and Tunisia.

  • Community set for maiden football tourney

    Community set for maiden football tourney

    Ayetoro New-Makun community has intensified efforts to host the 1st edition of the Ayetoro New-Makun FA Community Cup 2025.

    The tournament is dedicated to discovering and celebrating raw football talent across neighbouring communities.

    Set for Saturday, December 20, it will take place at the Christ College Green Acres Field, Ayetoro, promising electrifying matches, community unity, and high-level grassroots entertainment.

    Read Also: UCL: Chelsea suffer setback as Atalanta take all three points

    According to the organizers, the primary objective of the tournament is to create a platform where young, passionate footballers can showcase their talent, gain exposure, and get scouted by reputable football agents who may play significant roles in shaping their professional future.

    The Local Organizing Committee (LOC) described  the event as a vital step towards building stronger football structures within the region. “This first edition is more than a competition; it is the beginning of a legacy for Ayetoro New-Makun FA and the entire community,” said Coach S. Adeyemi, LOC Chairman.

    Eight  teams  have been selected to compete for glory. They include  Ayetoro NM FC, Arepo Bombers, Maba United FC, New Makun FA, Magboro FC, Olofin FC, Lufuwape Amazing Stars and Iwelepe FC.

    Outstanding players, coaches  and teams will be honoured with impressive prizes, including a trophy for the overall champion and medals for others.

  • Wema Bank wins  fourth consecutive  Nigeria Bankers Games

    Wema Bank wins  fourth consecutive  Nigeria Bankers Games

    Wema Bank has emerged  the overall Winner at the just-concluded Nigeria Bankers Game (NBG) 2025 Grand Finale, marking the bank’s fourth consecutive win at the sporting event, setting a new industry record.

    With a tally of nine gold medals, Wema Bank clinched victories across various categories, including Table Tennis (Female Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles), Volleyball, Scrabble, Video games, 100m Female, 200m Female, and the 4x100m Female Relay.

    This year’s NBG also celebrated individual excellence, with Oluwaseun Adewunmi an employee of Wema Bank earning the title of Nigeria Bankers Game 2025 Overall Outstanding Athlete.

    According to the bank, her performances across various disciplines reflect deep commitment, discipline and resilience, making her stand out as one of the tournament’s finest competitors.

    Managing Director and CEO of Wema Bank, Moruf Oseni, expressed his pride in the NBG achievement.

    He said: “Wema Bank Plc has once again won the Nigerian Bankers Games title for the fourth consecutive year. This remarkable feat sets a new benchmark in the Nigerian banking industry. As we commemorate 80 years of impact and service, this victory carries even deeper meaning for us as an institution.

     “We owe this incredible success to every staff who wore our colours and competed with passion, focus, and grit, our esteemed athletes, you are true champions. Your dedication to training and your stellar performance across all events showcased the absolute best of our institution. Thank you for making history.

    Read Also: UCL: Monaco edge Galatasaray as Balogun scores decisive 68th-minute goal

     “This championship confirms that Wema Bank is a powerhouse, a place where excellence is not the exception but the standard. This victory is more than just a trophy. It is a profound reflection of our corporate DNA and a powerful testament to the spirit of excellence and determination that defines us,” he concluded.

    Reacting to her  as the overall outstanding athlete of the year, Oluwaseun Adewunmi said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this award. Competing across several events and representing Wema Bank has been an incredibly fulfilling experience. This achievement is a shared victory that belongs to my teammates and everyone who supported us throughout the tournament. I am grateful to Wema Bank for providing the platform, encouragement, and support that enabled us to perform at our very best.”

    As Wema Bank celebrates this fourth consecutive win, the bank reiterates its commitment to excellence and continuous progress.

     “This historic achievement is not only a reflection of sporting success but also a testament to Wema Bank’s unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of resilience, innovation, and collaboration. Through consistent performance, empowerment of its people, and a drive to set new standards, Wema Bank continues to lead as a trailblazer, inspiring others to strive for greatness.”

  • AFN constitutes committee to probe alleged age discrepancy scandal

    AFN constitutes committee to probe alleged age discrepancy scandal

    The Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) has inaugurated a Special Investigative Committee (SIC) to probe allegations of widespread age discrepancies involving Nigerian athletes, following concerns raised by the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU).

    The move, announced on Monday, is part of the federation’s efforts to demonstrate transparency and absolve itself of any wrongdoing amid reports that 17 athletes were flagged for multiple conflicting dates of birth recorded at various continental and global competitions.

    Read Also: UCL: Chelsea suffer setback as Atalanta take all three points

    AFN Vice President, Hon. Abubakar Ladan Gurmi, has been appointed to chair the committee. Other members include respected sports administrator Barrister Musa Amadu, former Olympian and sports icon Olumide Oyedeji, legal expert Barrister Dele Edokpayi, and Mbora Ikana.

    According to correspondence sent by the AIU to AFN President Tonobok Okowa and General Secretary Israel Inwang, several athletes were found to have two to four different dates of birth across official documents — a development the integrity body described as “glaring discrepancies.”

    The AFN said the investigative panel will work swiftly to determine the root causes of the inconsistencies, identify those responsible, and make recommendations to prevent future occurrences as Nigeria continues its push for stronger global credibility in athletics.

  • NFF Management, Staff stage walk against corruption

    NFF Management, Staff stage walk against corruption

    On the occasion of the 2025 International Anti-Corruption Day, members of the Management and Staff of the Nigeria Football Federation on Tuesday staged an enlightenment walk round the premises of the MKO Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

    The special event had the NFF Desk Officer in the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), Mallam Abdulrahman Maigari in attendance, and he joined NFF directors including Dr Ademola Olajire (Director of Media & Communications), Ms. Ruth David (Director of Competitions), Mr. Barnabas Joro (Deputy Director, Protocol), Dr Ayo Abdulrahaman (Deputy Director, Competitions) and Hajia Amina Daura (Head of Women’s Football) and other senior officers in the walk.

    Head of NFF’s ACTU (Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit), Barr. Queen Otarakpo, espoused the essence of celebrating the day, saying the International Anti-Corruption Day “reminds us that corruption is not just a legal violation; it is a barrier to development, a threat to institutional integrity, and an enemy of public trust.”

    She added: “Our organization stands at the frontline of this fight. As the Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit, we are committed to promoting a culture where integrity is non-negotiable, transparency is a standard, and accountability is a shared responsibility.

    Read Also: UCL: Monaco edge Galatasaray as Balogun scores decisive 68th-minute goal

     “Corruption survives where silence prevails. But today, we choose to raise our voices. We choose honesty over shortcuts, service over self-interest, and responsibility over negligence. When we uphold ethical standards in our daily duties, we strengthen our institution and contribute to a nation where fairness and justice can thrive.”

    Reiterating that the three mandates of ICPC are enlightenment, prevention and prosecution, Maigari advanced that enlightenment and prevention are more important to the commission, and praised the NFF for being very active in the anti-corruption crusade.

    NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi (MON), commended the NFF ACTU for organizing the enlightenment walk, and for always involving the ICPC Desk Officer in all that they do.

     “There are some little things we do that we are not aware could be anti-corruption, but through enlightenment and crusades such as this, people and institutions are better-guided. The NFF ACTU executive team is very much alive to its responsibilities and we are proud of their proactivity, focus, diligence and sense of duty.”

  • NLO reverts to virtual  AGM amid security concerns

    NLO reverts to virtual  AGM amid security concerns

    The Nationwide League One (NLO) Executive Board has decisively opted to conduct its  forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) virtually following escalating security challenges in the country. 

    The AGM, set for December 12th in the nation’s capital, Abuja, was billed to be attended by delegates sanctioned by the State Football Associations (State FAs), including that of the FCT.

    Given the current security climate, the NLO Secretariat has swiftly communicated this essential change to all affiliated clubs within the league.

    Read Also: UCL: Chelsea suffer setback as Atalanta take all three points

    “In our official correspondence, we clearly stated that, due to the serious security concerns affecting our nation, the AGM originally scheduled for December 12th  will now be held in a virtual format on the same date. This decision is critical to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants during these challenging times,” the third tier league body said in a statement.

    According to the NLO, the virtual setup will allow for vital discussions and decision-making while ensuring a secure environment for all involved. NLO will promptly provide all designated congress members with the necessary details and links for accessing the meeting.

    As the largest grassroots football regulatory body in Africa, we appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our affiliates as we navigate these pressing challenges together.

  • CGC Premier League: Customs keep perfect run as Wikki, Offa win five-set thrillers

    CGC Premier League: Customs keep perfect run as Wikki, Offa win five-set thrillers

    Day 8 of the 2025 CGC Volleyball Premier League Final Phase produced another round of pulsating contests at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, as the battle for league supremacy sharpened across both the men’s and women’s categories.

    Coming off an intense Day 7 that saw dominant outings from Nigeria Customs and statement wins from Sunshine, COAS, Benue Queens and Life Camp, yesterday’s fixtures added fresh twists to the unfolding title race.

    In the men’s division, Nigeria Customs Service extended their ruthless run with a straight-sets victory over Kano Pillars, winning 3–0 (25–22, 28–26, 25–22). Despite Pillars putting up stiff resistance—especially in the tight second set—Customs’ superior organization and attacking precision once again proved decisive, keeping their unbeaten streak intact.

    NSCDC bounced back strongly from previous setbacks with a 3–1 win over COAS Spikers (19–25, 25–21, 25–21, 25–20). After losing the first set, NSCDC grew into the match, tightening their block and cutting out errors to claim three straight sets and secure a vital victory.

    Read Also: UCL: Chelsea suffer setback as Atalanta take all three points

    In one of the most dramatic matches of the day, Offa VC edged NAF Rockets 3–2 (23–25, 25–23, 25–23, 21–25, 15–11) in a five-set thriller. The contest swung back and forth, but Offa’s composure in the decider earned them a memorable win.

    Nigeria Police Force returned to winning ways with a solid 3–1 triumph over UCEM (28–26, 18–25, 25–20, 25–18). Police’s superior defensive discipline and late-set execution made the difference, despite UCEM’s strong second-set response.

    CNS Spikers capped the men’s fixtures with an emphatic 3–0 victory over Sunshine Spikers (25–22, 25–20, 25–18), a result that not only halted Sunshine’s Day 7 momentum but also strengthened CNS’ position among the leading contenders.

    The women’s category opened with COAS Spikers asserting dominance over Kada Emeralds in a 3–0 sweep (25–13, 25–22, 25–10), showcasing sharp serving and quick attacking transitions. Life Camp maintained their impressive form with another straight-sets win—this time against Olalomi Royal Queens (25–9, 25–16, 25–20)—further consolidating their top-four aspirations.

    Anambra Queens and Wikki Queens delivered one of the most gripping matches of Day 8, with Anambra emerging 3–2 winners (25–22, 24–26, 23–25, 25–12, 15–13). After trailing by two sets to one, Anambra stormed back with an authoritative fourth set before sealing the decider in a tense finish. In a heavyweight clash, Nigeria Customs Service Women overcame CNS Spikers 3–1 (19–25, 25–17, 25–21, 25–19). Despite losing the opening set, Customs demonstrated their trademark resilience and tactical adjustment to reverse the tide and strengthen their hold on the title race.

    Benue Queens, impressive on Day 7, fell 0–3 to a determined NSCDC side (25–18, 25–22, 25–17). NSCDC were sharp and efficient throughout, denying Benue the rhythm that defined their previous outings. The victory keeps NSCDC firmly in the hunt for a strong finish.

  • Team Nigeria’s contingent  departs for Africa Youth Games in Angola

    Team Nigeria’s contingent  departs for Africa Youth Games in Angola

    The first batch of Nigeria’s contingents to the 4th  Africa Youth Games, Luanda 2025, departed the country on Monday, December 8, as preparations get underway  for the continent’s premier youth multi-sport event.

    Nigeria will be proudly represented by 86 athletes competing in 12 sports, including athletics, badminton, boxing, beach volleyball, cycling, judo, golf, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo, tennis  and weightlifting.

    The Africa Youth Games (AYG), scheduled to hold between December 10  and 20, mark a historic moment as Angola becomes the first Lusophone nation to host the Games.

    Read Also: UCL: Monaco edge Galatasaray as Balogun scores decisive 68th-minute goal

    The event will unfold across six host cities, including Luanda, Benguela and Bengo, bringing together young talents aged 14 to 17 from up to 54 African countries.

    The National Sports Commission stated that the Africa Youth Games serve as a developmental platform aimed at: Promoting sport and youth engagement across the continent; identifying and nurturing emerging talent; preparing young athletes for major global competitions, including acting as qualifiers for the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games and fostering unity, cultural exchange and integration among African nations.

    The National Sports Commission and the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) expressed confidence in Team Nigeria’s preparation and performance prospects of shining bright in Angola.

  • Morocco 2025: Tanzania recall veteran  Samatta for Super Eagles, others

    Morocco 2025: Tanzania recall veteran  Samatta for Super Eagles, others

    Captain Mbwana Samatta has been recalled to Tanzania’s squad for the Africa Cup of Nations finals for this month’s tournament in Morocco.

    The striker, who turns 33 later this month, won the last of his 75 caps for Tanzania a year ago but returns in a 28-man selection, which the Tanzania Football Federation announced on social media.

    Samatta, who previously played at Aston Villa, is one of eight foreign-based players in the squad, which also includes English-born Haji Mnoga from League Two outfit Salford City and Tarryn Allarakhia, who plays at English minor-league side Rochdale.

    All three were in Tanzania’s squad at the last finals in Cote d’Ivoire  where they drew two games and lost one and finished bottom of their group.

    Read Also: UCL: Chelsea suffer setback as Atalanta take all three points

    New coach Miguel Gamondi, appointed last month, has dropped experienced midfielder Mudathir Yahya but included the uncapped Kelvin Nashon.

    Tanzania will compete in Group C at the tournament and will take on Nigeria in their opening game on December 23. They will also meet neighbours Uganda and Tunisia in the group.

    Goalkeepers: Zuberi Foba (Azam), Hussein Masaraga (Singida Black Stars), Yakoub Suleiman (Simba)

    Defenders: Ibrahim Abdullah, Mohamed Hussein, Dickson Job (all Young Africans), Shomari Kapombe (Simba), Nickson Kibabage (Singida Black Stars), Haji Mnoga (Salford City), Lusajo Mwaikenda (Azam), Bakari Mwamnyeto (Young Africans), Pascal Msindo (Azam), Wilson Nangu (Simba)

    Midfielders: Morice Abraham (Simba), Tarryn Allarakhia (Rochdale), Novatus Dismas (Göztepe), Habibu Idd (Singida Black Stars), Yusuph Kagoma (Simba), Alphonce Mabula (Shamakhi), Charles M’Mombwa (Floriana), Kelvin Nashon (Pamba Jiji), Feisal Salum (Azam)

    Forwards: Kibu Denis (Simba), Kelvin John (Aalborg, Denmark), Simon Msuva (Al Talaba), Mbwana Samatta (Le Havre, France), Abdul Suleiman, Iddi Suleiman (both Azam)