The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Ardova Handball Premier League enters  decisive phase in Lagos

    Ardova Handball Premier League enters  decisive phase in Lagos

    The  2025 Ardova Handball Premier League  enters its decisive Phase 2  from today in Lagos with teams across the men’s and women’s divisions bracing for defining fixtures as  the title race gets underway.

    For the opening three match days, matches will be played at the Rowe Park Sports Centre, Yaba, before the competition shifts to the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Institute for Sports (NIS) at the National Stadium, Surulere, for the remainder of the phase.

    As the action resumes, Matchday 1 already promises several crucial fixtures across both categories; games that could set the tone for the rest of the phase.

    In the men’s division, league leaders Safety Shooters open against Osun United, a side that may prove stubborn defensively but will need something extra to trouble the high-scoring leaders while Rima Strikers, who sit third, begin their hunt for the top spot with a tricky tie against Benue Buffaloes.

    Lagos Seasiders will be banking on home support when they tackle Niger United in what is expected to be a physically contested encounter as Correction Boys face De Defenders in a match between two sides determined to avoid slipping into the lower half of the standings.

    The standout fixture of the day, however, is the clash between COAS Shooters and defending champions Tojemarine HC, a battle that carries early implications for the title picture as both sides eye vital points.

    The women’s fixtures are equally compelling. Ekiti Queens face Defender Babes in the opening tie of the category, followed by an exciting matchup between impressive Phase 1 debutants Soof Omo Ogiefo HBC and former champions Plateau Peacocks.

    Read Also: Super Eagles: NFF  Scrap U.S. friendlies to prioritize World Cup Play-Offs

    Seasoned campaigners Imo Grasshoppers will test their strength against title-chasing Rima Queens, while defending champions Safety Babes begin their chase for a historic fifth consecutive league crown with a tough duel against Rivers Queens.

    Safety Babes remain the team to beat in the women’s category as they continue their push for an unprecedented fifth straight title. They top the standings with 21 points after an excellent outing in Phase 1 in Benin City.

    Their closest rivals, Rima Queens of Sokoto, sit just two points behind with 19 and remain a strong threat. Former champions Plateau Peacocks are third with 15 points, while the experienced Imo Grasshoppers and impressive debutants Soof Omo Ogiefo HBC are tied on 13 points, ensuring a tight chase for top positions.

    The men’s division promises even fiercer battles. Safety Shooters head into the Lagos phase with 28 points and a formidable +91 goal difference, but they are level on points with rivals COAS Shooters, whose +50 difference keeps them just behind in second place. Rima Strikers (25 points) and defending champions Tojemarine HC (24 points) complete a competitive top four, setting up an unpredictable phase where every point matters.

  • Nigeria drop to eighth in latest FIBA Power Rankings

    Nigeria drop to eighth in latest FIBA Power Rankings

    Senegal have climbed to the top of the latest FIBA Basketball World Cup African Qualifiers Power Rankings, highlighting a major shift in the continent’s basketball hierarchy.

    Angola and fast-rising South Sudan follow closely behind, underlining how competitive African basketball has become. Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Egypt and Mali complete the top seven.

    The major talking point, however, is Nigeria’s fall to No. 8 — a stunning position for a nation once considered a powerhouse. D’Tigers, once capable of toppling global teams and producing world-class stars, now face a sobering reality that results have not aligned with their immense talent base and deep basketball culture.

    Read Also: W’Cup 2026: Toro hails NFF, stakeholders for Super Eagles’   playoff spot

    Nigeria’s challenges stem from several years of instability, including frequent coaching changes, administrative issues, and inconsistent player availability. As these problems stalled the team’s progress, nations with clearer programs and stronger cohesion—such as South Sudan and Senegal—took decisive steps forward.

    Still, the rankings serve as both a warning and motivation. Nigeria remain one of Africa’s most naturally gifted teams, boasting elite athleticism, foreign-based stars and a growing stream of home-grown prospects. With stability, structure and renewed focus, D’Tigers possess the tools to rise again.

  • D’Tigers hit Tunis for  Qatar 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

    D’Tigers hit Tunis for  Qatar 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers

    Nigeria’s senior men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, have departed for Tunis, Tunisia, where they will begin their qualifying campaign for the Qatar 2027 FIBA World Cup.

    Head Coach Abdulrahaman Mohammed has unveiled a strong 12-man roster, led by veteran guard and 2015 Afrobasket champion, Stanley Okoye, the team’s longest-serving player.

    The roster blends overseas talents with home-based stars, reflecting Nigeria’s continued commitment to nurturing domestic talent.

    Among the selected players are three home-based standouts, including two members of the newly crowned Nigerian champions Lagos Legends – Chinkpa Garba and Obekpa Chris, as well as Paul Dibal of Gboko City Chiefs, whose impressive form earned him a spot.

    Read Also: W’Cup 2026: Toro hails NFF, stakeholders for Super Eagles’   playoff spot

    The 2027 FIBA World Cup African Qualifiers will take place across five windows from November 2025 to February 2027. Sixteen teams that qualified for FIBA AfroBasket 2025 have been drawn into four groups of four. Nigeria will compete in Group C, where they will face Rwanda, Guinea, and Tunisia.

    D’Tigers Roster for the 2027 FIBA World Cup Qualifiers:  Jordan Ogundiran ( Denmark);Ike Nwamu(Turkey);Mike Nuga ( Canada);Simon Ugochukwu  (Italy);Stanley Okoye ( Spain);Paul Dibal (Gboko City Chiefs, Nigeria);Augustine Okafor (United Kingdom);Talib Zanna ( USA);Chinkpa Garba (Lagos Legends, Nigeria);Obekpa Chris ( Lagos Legends, Nigeria);Udeze Morris Chidera (Spain) and Olisa Akinobi  ( USA).

    D’Tigers ‘ Technical Crew:  Head Coach: Abdulrahaman Mohammed (Nigeria);Assistant Coach: Akindele Ayodeji (USA);Assistant Coach: Job Nelson (Bahrain) and Video Coach: Onyebuchi Onyeka (USA)

  • Federation  solicit for funds as Karatekas jet out for  World Championship

    Federation  solicit for funds as Karatekas jet out for  World Championship

    By Joshua Osinowo

    As the Team Nigeria contingent  departed  Lagos  yesterday for the World Karate Championship in Cairo, the board of the Karate Federation of Nigeria (KFN) has  appealed to the National Sports Commission (NSC) to  help offset some of the debts incurred to make the trip a reality.

    The KFN  in a release shared with NationSports,  noted that “ the World Championship falls within the purview of the National Sports Commission (NSC)” hence  the  appeal  for reimbursement  on the funds expended  on the karatekas.

    The World Karate Championship  is scheduled to hold  between November 27 and 30 in Cairo.

    Nigeria will be proudly represented by five exceptional karatekas  who have shown remarkable dedication, discipline and competitive excellence .

    Read Also: NFF sets record straight on FIFA,CAF funds

    The quintet are: Loveth Ngozi Okoro  ( Kumite -50kg);Godfirst Orie Ukoha-Sampson (Kumite -55kg);Constance Tamunodiepreye Abode (Kumite -61kg);Ujunwa Caroline Nwankwo ( Kumite +68kg) and Oluwaseun Olorunbe ( Kumite – Male Kata).They will be led by coach Efezino Akpotu while Olusegun Abode is leader of delegation.

    Incidentally, four of the female karatekas to watch in Cairo are Okoro,  Ukoha-Sampson, Tamunodiepreye-Abode and Nwankwo,  who have been consistent contenders at the annual Zainab Saleh International Female Open Karate Championship, the brainchild of Hajiya Zainab Saleh, a Board Member of the Karate Federation of Nigeria (KFN), which has empowered and elevated female karatekas in Nigeria.

  • Castmog Ladies suffer NWFL relegation over registration failure

    Castmog Ladies suffer NWFL relegation over registration failure

    The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) Secretariat has formally confirmed the relegation of Castmog Ladies from the 2025/2026 NWFL Premiership after the club failed to meet essential licensing and registration requirements for the new season.

    The decision, in a statement by its Media Director, Samuel Ahmadu, on Monday November 24, 2025, follows earlier issued clear warnings to three Premiership clubs, including Castmog Ladies, to comply with all registration and licensing obligations, but the Abeokuta-based outfit failed to meet the stipulated deadline despite the reminders.

    While confirming the development, NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Ms. Modupe Shabi, revealed that the Secretariat has begun adjusting competition logistics to reflect the revised structure.

     “We have a responsibility to protect the integrity of the league, and compliance with registration and licensing requirements is a non-negotiable part of that process,” she said.

    The NWFL COO emphasised that adherence to registration and licensing rules is essential to maintaining a credible and competitive league system while supporting the long-term growth and sustainability of women’s football across the country.

    She added that revised season schedule and operational details will be released in the coming days.

     “Our focus is to ensure the season proceeds smoothly on Wednesday, November 26, 2025. Updated fixtures and communication will be issued to all clubs, and we remain committed to transparency and professionalism at every stage,” Shabi stated.

    According to the NWFL Secretariat, all other affected clubs complied with the stipulated requirements within the allocated timeframe, leaving Castmog Ladies as the only Premiership side unable to satisfy the compulsory standards.

    Read Also: NFF president visits Ola Aina in London

    With the Ogun State-based club now officially relegated, the Premiership season will proceed with the approved number of 19 teams. As a direct consequence, every club, including Rivers Angels originally scheduled to face Castmog Ladies in the opening and subsequent fixtures will now observe a bye on those matchdays.

    Revised NWFL Premiership Matchday One Fixtures – November 26

    Group A

    Bayelsa Queens vs Edo Queens

    Adamawa Queens vs Pacesetters Queens

    Heartland Queens vs Ekiti Queens

    Naija Ratels vs Ibom Angels

    Group B

    Nasarawa Amazons vs Delta Queens

    Confluence Queens vs Abia Angels

    Sunshine Queens vs Robo Queens

    Ahudiyannem Queens vs Remo Stars Ladies

    Dannaz Ladies vs Osun Babes

  • Nigeria, Egypt confirm tickets to World Para Championships

    Nigeria, Egypt confirm tickets to World Para Championships

    Nigeria and Egypt reaffirm their continental dominance, winning multiple gold medals at the 2025 ITTF-Africa Para Championships, which came to an end on Sunday, November 23 in Giza, Egypt.

    The championships, which brought together top competitors from across the continent, including host nation Egypt, Nigeria, Algeria, Cameroon, and Côte d’Ivoire, also served as a qualifier to the 2026 World Championships in Bangkok, Thailand.

    Nigeria finished slightly ahead with six gold medals, while Egypt secured five. Côte d’Ivoire also impressed, with Bayala Jean Pierre’s spirited silver medal in the singles, adding depth to the event.

    2024 Paralympics bronze medallist, Ogunkunle Isau, led the charge in the Men’s Singles Classes 4–5. Adesope Abiola Wali, Farinloye Victor, and Lawal Kehinde added to Nigeria’s gold tally with victories in their respective singles categories.

    Isau once again stepped up by excelling in mixed doubles with Oputa Kate, winning the Mixed Doubles class 10 title, while Adesope Abiola Wali and Kehinde finished first in the Mixed Doubles classes 14–20 category.

    Egypt’s campaign was marked by dominant singles victories, including Ramadan Khaled’s triumph over compatriot Elmahsy Ahmed in the Men’s Singles Classes 1–3, Youssef Sayed’s commanding win against Abdelmoneim Abousteit in the Men’s Singles Classes 6–7, and further golds from Abdelwahab Abdelrahman and Mahmoud Faiza in the women’s classes 1-5.

    Read Also: Super Eagles: NFF  Scrap U.S. friendlies to prioritize World Cup Play-Offs

    The host’s doubles strength was also evident as Sayed teamed up with Abdelwahab Abdelrahman to clinch the Men’s Doubles Class MD18 title in a hard-fought 3–2 battle against Nigeria’s duo Adesope Abiola Wali and Agunbiade Tajudeen on the final day.

    Speaking after the conclusion of the championships, Tournament Director Amr Fahmy described the event as a resounding success. He noted that the level of competition continues to improve, with more athletes participating each year.

    “We are hopeful that future editions will attract even greater participation, which will further enhance the growth and stature of this championship,” Fahmy said.

    By the close of the competition, eight qualification slots to Bangkok 2026 had been secured, while additional slots will be earned through African rankings in 2026 according to the ITTF rules, ensuring broader representation and opportunity for athletes across the continent.

  • NPFL: Pillars end seven-game drought as Katsina United stun Enyimba

    NPFL: Pillars end seven-game drought as Katsina United stun Enyimba

    Kano Pillars finally returned to winning ways after seven winless matches, defeating Ikorodu City 2–1 at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina.

    The loss in Katsina  denied Ikorodu City the chance to reclaim top spot on the NPFL table.

    Rabiu Ali set the tone with a third-minute opener before Olakunle Alaka doubled the lead in the 30th minute. Joseph Arumala pulled one back for Ikorodu City in first-half stoppage time, but Pillars held firm in a tense second half to secure a much-needed win. Despite the result, they remain bottom with nine points from 14 games, while Ikorodu City stay second on 24 points.

    Read Also: NFF, Nigeria Police commit to greater safety and security measures in Abuja

    In Ilorin, Katsina United climbed to eighth on the log after edging Enyimba 3–2 in a pulsating encounter. Jamilu Yusuf struck in the 32nd  minute before Uche Collins extended the lead early in the second half. Enyimba substitute Stanley Dimgba reduced the deficit in the 60th minute, but Collins restored Katsina United’s two-goal cushion just two minutes later.

    Issah Mohammed’s 64th-minute effort ensured a nervy finish, yet Katsina United—playing away from their home ground—held on to claim all three points. The defeat sees Enyimba slip to 14th place with 17 points as their inconsistent season continues.

  • Finidi admits Rivers United’s lapses  in loss to Pyramids

    Finidi admits Rivers United’s lapses  in loss to Pyramids

    By Joshua Osinowo

    Coach George Finidi has delivered a frank evaluation of Rivers United’s  performance following their 3–0 loss to Pyramids FC of Egypt in their  CAF Champions League group stage Matchday 1 encounter.

    Reflecting on the defeat , Finidi acknowledged that Rivers United entered the game with a solid defensive structure, particularly in the opening half. According to him, the team managed to maintain organisation at the back and created promising openings that could have shifted the narrative had the final ball been more precise.

     “We defended well and had one or two opportunities,” he explained. “But the final pass was not good enough. In the first half of the match  they did well, but in the second half of this game, the difference became clear.”

    Read Also: NFF confirms Super Eagles friendlies in US

    Finidi pointed to a critical moment early in the second half that changed the match entirely. A defensive lapse allowed Pyramids to score their opening goal—an error he described as preventable and costly.

     “Their first goal was a big mistake from our players,” he said. “When you let a team like this score first, it builds their momentum.”

    Once Pyramids capitalised on that momentum, the Nigerian side struggled to regain control. Finidi noted that the Egyptian team’s confidence surged, leading to the second and third goals that sealed the defeat.

     “From that moment it was the second goal and then the third. At that point, the game was over—both the first half and the second half were all done. That was just the difference.”

    Despite the disappointment, Finidi’s assessment suggests that the team recognises the areas that require improvement and will look to address the lapses as they continue their CAF Champions League campaign.

  • CAF Champions League: Rivers United ‘s slayer Atef named Matchday One MVP

    CAF Champions League: Rivers United ‘s slayer Atef named Matchday One MVP

    Ahmed Atef El Sayed delivered a scintillating individual performance on Matchday One of the CAF Champions League, scoring all three goals as Pyramids FC swept aside Rivers United 3–0 in Cairo. His ruthless display of finishing not only secured a perfect start for the defending champions but also earned him the prestigious award of CAF Interclub Player of the Week.

    The 26-year-old striker was the undisputed focal point of the contest, single-handedly dismantling Rivers United with a hat-trick that showcased his versatility, composure and clinical instincts inside the penalty area. After a cagey first half where the Nigerians held firm, Atef took full control of the tie with three decisive strikes that underlined his growing reputation as one of Africa’s premier forwards.

    He opened the floodgates in the 52nd minute, pouncing sharply in a congested six-yard box to steer home the breakthrough goal. The finish shattered Rivers United’s resistance and swung the tempo firmly in Pyramids’ favour. Just five minutes later, he doubled the advantage with a majestic header—rising above the defence to power Karim Hafez’s pinpoint cross into the top corner, arguably the finest goal of the night.

    Read Also: NFF to revamp youth football structure , says Gusau

    Atef completed his hat-trick with supreme assurance in the 72nd minute. Latching onto Mohamed Reda’s incisive pass, he guided a composed right-footed effort into the bottom-left corner, sealing a memorable treble that highlighted his full array of striking qualities—from instinct to aerial dominance to calm, precise finishing.

    His brilliance ensured Pyramids FC finished Matchday One level on points with RS Berkane at the top of Group A, reinforcing the club’s ambitions of defending their Champions League crown. More importantly, it cemented Atef’s status as the standout performer of the opening round, with CAF’s recognition confirming his influence and dominance.

    With confidence soaring, Atef now heads into the next Group A clash against Power Dynamos as the man to watch. If his opening-day heroics are any indication, Pyramids’ pursuit of back-to-back continental titles will run through their red-hot No. 9.

  • Customs Women hailed on  dominant Super Volleyball Championship victory

    Customs Women hailed on  dominant Super Volleyball Championship victory

    President of the Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF), Engineer Musa Nimrod, has applauded the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) women’s volleyball team for their emphatic 3-0 victory over the Ghana Air Force in the final of the 2025 Super Volleyball Championship held at the Borteyman Sports Complex in Accra.

    The Nigerian side, who secured the win with sets of 25–20, 25–23, and 25–14, showcased superior quality and resilience to emerge champions on Sunday.

    Nimrod praised the players, coaches, and management for their dedication, discipline, and consistency, noting that their triumph highlights the rising profile of Nigerian volleyball. He described the victory as a source of inspiration for clubs across the country and a testament to what can be achieved through teamwork and proper support.

    Read Also: Nigeria v. Gabon: NFF Protests FIFA official appointments for W’ Cup Play-off

    The NVBF president also commended the leadership of the Nigeria Customs Service, especially Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi  for sustained investment in volleyball development.

    The Nigeria Customs women’s team ended the championship unbeaten, recording convincing victories over Ghana Navy, Kalibi, Ghana Immigration, and Elwak Wings before their commanding performance in the final. Their success reinforces their status as one of the strongest volleyball sides in West Africa and a team capable of dominating on the continental stage.

    Head of Sports of the Nigeria Customs Service, Samuel Onikeku, attributed the team’s success to the unwavering support and investment of the Comptroller General. He stated that the CGC has provided an enabling environment for the players to thrive, adding that the victory serves as motivation ahead of the 2025 CGC Volleyball Premier League, where Customs will aim to defend their women’s title.

    Nigeria capped their impressive outing with five individual awards: Kelechi Genevieve won MVP and Best Opposite, Maryam Ibrahim claimed Best Attacker, Aisha Umar earned Best Server, Bukky Oluwatosin took Best Middle Blocker, while Coach Suleiman Ajeigbe was named Best Coach, rounding off a dominant performance by the Nigerian contingent.