The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • ‎Ama-ebi  hailed  for revitalizing table tennis in Bayelsa

    ‎Ama-ebi  hailed  for revitalizing table tennis in Bayelsa

    The grand patron of Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association, Apostle Zilly Aggrey, has commended the revival of  table tennis in the state under the leadership of Ama-ebi Ebikpolade Stow.

    ‎ Apostle Aggrey, the founder of Royal House of Grace International Church,  gave the commendation at the opening ceremony of the South South Veterans Table Tennis championship at the Fortress in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital.

    ‎He noted that he was excited to see the entire South-South and Nigeria converge on Yenagoa for the South-South Veterans Table Tennis championship and the 1st  Governor Douye Diri Top-16 National Table Tennis Tournament, describing the championship as special.

    ‎The former Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association chairman asserted that he was marvelled by the gigantic edifice constructed by Ama-ebi  Stow for table tennis, maintaining that the structure has given Bayelsa a new direction in table tennis.

    ‎Apostle Aggrey urged the stakeholders within the Niger Delta to invest in the development of table tennis in order to replace aged athletes, stating that the game between Samuel Boboye and his counterpart was indicative of an avalanche of talents in the country.

    ‎He explained that Ama-ebi Stow’s passion for sports, particularly table tennis, has complimented the efforts of the governor, Senator Douye Diri whose undiminished love for sports has continued to give Bayelsa global recognition.

    ‎Chairman of the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association, Ama-ebi Stow in an interview, said all the Niger Delta states are represented in the championship that the idea of the championship was to get the best team in the region.

    Ama-ebi Stow  who doubles as ‎the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Sports (Table Tennis) , noted that apart from prize money and trophy, that the essence of the tournament was to showcase to the nation that Bayelsa remains the number one state in the country having dominated the nation in the last National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

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    ‎According to him, the South-South Veterans Table Tennis Championship and the 1st Governor Douye Diri Top-16 National Table Tennis competition has provided an opportunity to market the governor’s developmental programmes to the world, even as the state prepares to host the nation in 2028.

    ‎The South-South zonal Representative on the board of Nigeria Table Tennis Federation, opined that the championship has boosted small businesses within Yenagoa metropolis.

    ‎He expressed gratitude to the governor, Senator Douye Diri, the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo and the Commissioner for Sports Development, Dr Daniel Igali for giving utmost priority to the development of sports.

    ‎Also, Morrison Asimole of the Port Harcourt Club 1928, commended the organizers of the tournament for the laudable initiative, stressing that the championship would build more frenzy amongst its members.

    ‎While the South South Veterans Table Tennis championship  came to an end yesterday. December 30th, the 1st  Governor Douye Diri Top-16 National Table Tennis Championship will climax on the 1st of December, 2025 at the Fortress.

  • Winners emerge in six sports at Obasa Games

    Winners emerge in six sports at Obasa Games

    ‎Winners have emerged in six sporting events at the ongoing Obasa Games 2025 following the conclusion of the indoor events at the Agege Stadium Indoor Sports Hall.

    ‎After days of fierce competition among the district winners at the Agege Stadium, Chess, Ayo, Scrabble, Table Tennis, Boxing and Athletic events produced winners.

    ‎In the boxing finals, Ramadan Ayinde and Oluwatoyin Amirat were crowned the King and Queen of the ring in the boys’ and girls’ U-15 categories while Kareem Yusuf and Nimotallahi Ajayi emerged champions in the boys’ and girls’ U-18 categories respectively.

    ‎Aina Sultan triumphed in a thrilling boys’ U-15 table tennis final against Adeleke Fikayo  while Kuyoro Mary won the girls’ U-15 title after beating Ogidiolu Olasubomi in the final clash.

    ‎In the U-18 Table Tennis boys and girls finals, Ekundayo Ishola pummelled Aromire Quam to emerge champions in the boys’ category while Afolabi Aisha emerge winner after beating Olorunkoya Aisha in the girls’ category.

    In chess, Adu Samuel came first while Adeiga David and Patrick Prais came second and third respectively.

    ‎In Scrabble, Okedairo Temisin emerged champion followed by Ajetunmobi Joel and Aneef Kelani who came second and  third respectively.

    ‎In Ayo, Kasali Adams came first while Majaro Abideen and Junaid Zainab came second and third respectively.

    ‎In athletes finals, John Bright claimed victory in the 100m boys’ U-15 final, Okonkwo Nwoma  came first in the girls’ U-15 final while Ganiu Olamilekan and Shodipo Eniola emerged champions in the boys’ and girls’ U-18 categories respectively.

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    ‎Similarly, Otta Ikosi Senior High School won the 4X100m relay final in the girls’ U-15 category while Lagos State Junior Model won gold in the boys’ category. Iwerekum Community Senior High School  won gold in the 4X100m in the girls’ U-18 category while The Apostolic Church Grammar School emerged the winner in the boys’ U-18 category.

    ‎The 4X100m mixed relay produced Millennium Senior Secondary School as the winner in the U-15 category while Iwerekum Community Senior Secondary School emerged winner in the U-18 category.

    ‎At the end, winners from the Table Tennis event shared the sum of N2m; winners from Boxing received N2m while N500, 000 each was allocated for winners from Chess, Ayo, Scrabble and Athletic events.

    About 12,000 students were drawn from the various secondary schools from the six educational districts in the State to participate in this year’s Sport Fiesta tagged from the street to stardom.

    ‎The Obasa Games, a multi-sports fiesta event, was put together by Kings Sports International annually to honour the Speaker, of Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa.

  • Ardova HPL 2025: Niger United edges  COAS Shooters  in photo-finish

    Ardova HPL 2025: Niger United edges  COAS Shooters  in photo-finish

    Niger United survived a fierce late rally from COAS Shooters to claim a narrow 32–31 victory on Matchday 6 of the Ardova Handball Premier League 2025 Phase 2 yesterday, November 30th , at the Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba, Lagos.

    With no women’s games on the schedule, the focus was fully on the men’s fixtures and the explosive contest saw Niger United take command early, heading into the break with a 22–16 advantage.

    But COAS Shooters roared back in the second half, cutting the deficit to a single goal in the dying moments. Niger United, however, held their nerve and defended stoutly to secure a crucial win in their push up the standings.

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    De-Defenders opened the day with a composed 25–19 victory over Tojemarine Academy, maintaining control throughout after establishing a 13–10 first-half lead.

    Safety Shooters produced the most emphatic performance of the round, dismantling Benue Buffaloes 47–21. They dominated from the start, racing to a 22–11 cushion at halftime before extending their lead with relentless attacking play.

    Rima Strikers also impressed, powering past Lagos Seasiders 36–26. The Caliphate team were sharp in transition and solid in defence, building on their 20–15 halftime lead to secure a commanding victory.

    Action resumes today  at both the Rowe Park Sports Centre  and the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Institute of Sports, Surulere.

    Match day 7 will see the league expand across two venues, as matches return to the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Institute of Sports (NIS), Surulere, alongside ongoing fixtures at the Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba, Lagos.

  • Proud Amuneke defends  job with Heartland in NNL

    Proud Amuneke defends  job with Heartland in NNL

    Coach Emmanuel Amuneke, says he feels no shame tinkering the Naze Millionaires in the Nigeria National League (NNL), insisting that leading his home state club  is an honour and a responsibility he embraces with pride.

    The Heartland FC Technical Manager, spoke  after his side  battled Gateway FC to a goalless draw on Saturday at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta—a result that moved the Owerri side to fifth on the log with four points from three matches.

    Despite the stalemate, the former African Footballer of the Year said his team deserved more from the encounter.

     “We came here with an objective to win the game,” he said. “We knew our opponents would be under pressure after losing their first two games, so it was always going to be a tough challenge. We created a lot of chances but were not effective in the final third. For me, it was two points dropped rather than one gained.”

    Amuneke, who has coached in Tanzania, Zambia and served on FIFA and CAF Technical Study Groups, stressed that his career achievements do not place him above the job at Heartland. Instead, he sees the NNL assignment as another phase in his professional and personal journey.

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    “I am very realistic to myself. I don’t place myself based on my status or what I have achieved. Life puts you in different places and you must face those challenges like a man,” he said. “I have won the U-17 World Cup twice, but I believe in embracing the process. There is nothing to be ashamed of being in the NNL. It’s about working hard to bring Heartland back to the topflight.”

    The former Super Eagles forward added that serving Imo State through Heartland FC gives him a deeper sense of purpose.

     “It is an honour to be asked to lead Heartland FC, the club from my state. I am happy serving my people and it is the greatest joy I can achieve,” he remarked.

    Heartland will return to action this Saturday when they host Inter FC Lagos in an NNL Matchday 4 tie at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, as they continue their push to return to the Nigeria Premier Football League.

  •  Ikeja Golf Club targets  World Amateur Golf Ranking as  Kelani wins 2025 tourney

     Ikeja Golf Club targets  World Amateur Golf Ranking as  Kelani wins 2025 tourney

    By Onyewuchi Nwachukwu

    The captain of the Ikeja Golf Club, AbdulRasheed Adebisi has revealed that the schedule for gross players at this year’s edition of the Ikeja Golf Club Championship was extended to three days to help them get recognition from World Amateur Golf Ranking.

    The World Amateur Golf Ranking is based on the results of over 2,600 amateur tournaments per year (and amateurs participating in certain professional events) and is updated each Wednesday. Rankings are based on the players’ average performances in counting events over a rolling period.

    Before this year, the tournament for the gross players lasted for two days and with the changes in 2025, Adebisi believes that it could help the gross players who are regarded as the major contenders to get the needed ranking to boost their careers.

    “The Ikeja Golf Club Championship usually comes up every November.

    “On Monday we had the caddies, Tuesday we had the pros and the guests, while on Wednesday was for the veterans and the ladies, Thursday we had a special kitty.

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    “Friday was for gross players who are regarded as the major contenders of this championship.

    “Before this year, the event for the gross players usually hold for two days but we decided to make it three days to help us get recognition from the World Amateur Golf Ranking.” he said

    Meanwhile, Amusa Kelani, winner of the 2025 Ikeja Club Championship which ended yesterday at the Ikeja Golf Club has described the tournament as very tough and added that he almost lost hope at a stage.

    Kelani defeated his closest rivals, Aruna Sharma and Jimoh Ogundare who came second and third respectively.

    “It was not an easy game at all because at a point I almost peed in my trousers but I thank God that I became relaxed when I got to hole 16. I’m happy to win the tournament at the end of the day.” he added.

  • Bremen’s  coach defends Boniface amid  criticisms

    Bremen’s  coach defends Boniface amid  criticisms

    Werder Bremen head coach Horst Steffen has stepped in to calm rising tensions around Super Eagles forward Victor Boniface, whose recent dip in form has made him a target of frustration among the club’s supporters.

    Boniface has endured a difficult spell, with limited playing time and performances that have left fans increasingly displeased. That frustration was on full display during Saturday’s 1-1 draw against FC Cologne, where the Nigerian striker was met with jeers and whistles upon his 70th -minute introduction.

    Supporters at the Weser Stadium made their feelings known as several isolated whistles rang out, especially when Boniface appeared hesitant in key moments. He was twice caught in possession while standing still, further fuelling the crowd’s impatience.

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    But Steffen moved quickly to shut down the growing criticism, refusing to single out the 23-year-old for public judgement. Speaking to Deichstube, the Bremen boss offered a measured defence.

     “We don’t have to constantly evaluate individual players now,” Steffen stated.

    He added that Boniface may simply need a spark to rebuild his confidence:

    “Maybe a goal will help him to become even stronger.”

  • Ten-man Chelsea hold Arsenal  in tetchy London derby

    Ten-man Chelsea hold Arsenal  in tetchy London derby

    Isak ends drought to fire Liverpool

    Mikel Merino rescued Arsenal as the Premier League leaders battled to a 1-1 draw against 10-man Chelsea in a heavyweight title clash, while Alexander Isak finally scored his first top-flight goal for troubled Liverpool in a 2-0 win at West Ham on Sunday.

    Chelsea midfielder Moises Caicedo was sent off in the 38th  minute at Stamford Bridge for a crude foul on Merino that caught the midfielder on his ankle.

    Despite Caicedo’s dismissal, Trevoh Chalobah headed Chelsea from Reece James’ corner into the lead in the 48th  minute.

    But Merino’s close-range header from Bukayo Saka’s cross in the 59th  minute ensured Arsenal emerged unscathed from a bruising encounter between the title rivals.

    Arsenal are five points clear of second-placed Manchester City, who beat Newcastle on Saturday, and sit six points above third-placed Chelsea.

    The Gunners remain the favourites to win their first Premier League crown since 2004, but Chelsea’s combative display suggested they could emerge as the biggest threat to the Gunners’ title aspirations.

    Arsenal are unbeaten in 17 games in all competitions, winning 14 of those matches, while Chelsea have gone seven matches without losing in all competitions.

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    “I think we showed we are heading in the right direction. We were a much better team than them 11 v 11 but with 10 players, it is difficult but we dealt with it outstandingly,” Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca said.

    Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta added: “Two teams that play with a lot of intensity and aggression, you could sense it in every tackle.

     “We scored a brilliant goal. We had two or three big chances. It’s been a massive week emotionally and physically.”

    Isak had failed to score in his five top-flight appearances since making a British record £125 million ($165 million) move from Newcastle in September.

    The Sweden forward banished that drought with only his second goal in 11 games in all competitions for the Reds, following his maiden strike in a League Cup win against second-tier Southampton.

    Cody Gakpo bagged Liverpool’s second goal in stoppage time to secure their first win in four games in all competitions.

     “It’s very important for us as a team that we went 1-0 up, but I think it was also important for him because I think it was his third or fourth chance of this game,” said Liverpool manager Arne Slot.

  • EPL: 10-Man Chelsea hold Arsenal to 1-1 draw in fierce London Derby

    EPL: 10-Man Chelsea hold Arsenal to 1-1 draw in fierce London Derby

    Ten-man Chelsea held Arsenal to an entertaining 1–1 draw in Sunday’s Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge.

    Chelsea began brightly but were dealt a major setback in the 38th minute when midfielder Moisés Caicedo was shown a red card for a reckless challenge on Mikel Merino.

    Despite the disadvantage, the hosts took the lead just two minutes into the second half as Trevoh Chalobah rose to power in a superb header, sparking celebrations around the Bridge.

    Arsenal responded quickly, restoring parity 11 minutes later through Merino, who guided a precise header beyond the Chelsea goalkeeper.

    Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino, speaking to Sky Sports, “On one hand, disappointed because we didn’t win. When you wear this shirt, you want to win every game. 

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    “This is a really tough stadium to come and take a point. We could have done things better but the team showed good mentality.

    “Maybe managing the game better and understanding what they were trying to do. With 10 men, we could have had more patience with the ball. Trying to find the wings and cross with players in the box. Obviously, they are a good side.

    On the red card challenge from Moises Caicedo, he said, “I felt my ankle go all the way but luckily I have very mobile ankles and body. I knew it was a horrible challenge and it was going to be a red card.

    A win for the Gunners would have seen them head into the midweek fixtures with a seven-point lead at the top of the table.

  • Verstappen wins Qatar Grand Prix to force final-race title decider

    Verstappen wins Qatar Grand Prix to force final-race title decider

    Lando Norris, Max Verstappen and Oscar Piastri will take their championship fight to a final-race showdown in Abu Dhabi after Red Bull’s Verstappen claimed victory in a dramatic Qatar Grand Prix.

    Verstappen inherited control of the race following a McLaren strategy call made under an early safety car. 

    The team opted not to pit on lap seven—contrary to every other outfit on the grid—costing both track position and, ultimately, Piastri’s shot at the win.

    The Dutchman went on to secure his seventh victory of the season, drawing level with Norris and Piastri. 

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    Piastri finished second, while Norris recovered to fourth behind the Williams of Carlos Sainz, collecting two extra points after overtaking Kimi Antonelli on the penultimate lap.

    Norris now leads Verstappen by 12 points heading to Yas Marina, with Verstappen moving four points clear of Piastri. Norris must finish at least third if Verstappen wins next Sunday’s title decider.

    Key moments in Qatar included McLaren’s refusal to pit during the early safety car caused by a collision between Pierre Gasly and Nico Hulkenberg, and Piastri’s unsuccessful late push after bringing forward his final stop.

  • EPL: Isak, Gakpo fire Liverpool past West Ham

    EPL: Isak, Gakpo fire Liverpool past West Ham

    Second-half strikes from Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo handed Liverpool a 2–0 victory over West Ham United in Sunday’s Premier League encounter.

    Isak, who arrived from Newcastle United in the summer, registered his first league goals for the club, helping the Reds snap a run of three straight defeats.

    The breakthrough came on the hour mark when Isak calmly finished a low delivery from the left. West Ham’s task became even harder six minutes from time as Lucas Paquetá was sent off for dissent, leaving the hosts to finish the match with 10 men.

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    Liverpool took full advantage in stoppage time, with Gakpo chesting down a cross before drilling home to seal the points in the 92nd minute.

    The win lifts Arne Slot’s side to eighth place on 21 points.

    Elsewhere, at the City Ground, Nottingham Forest were unable to replicate last week’s impressive showing at Anfield, falling 2–0 to Brighton. Nigerian duo Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi missed out through injury.