The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Nigerian Eagles claim historic win  at African Chovken Championship

    Nigerian Eagles claim historic win  at African Chovken Championship

    Another international sporting history was made recently  in Abuja as the Nigeria’s  National Chovken Team became the first winners of the maiden African Chovken Championship.

    The Nigerian  Eagles,  as the team is so called,  made the country proud, flying over Egypt, Ghana, and Niger Republic to proudly raise the country’s flag at the peak of the magnificent Aso Rock that provided a perfect back drop on the event organized by the International Chovken Federation (ICF) and its continental  affiliate, African Chovken Federation (ACF).

    Cheered on by  thousands of effervescent  home fans who thronged the serene Guards Polo Club,  venue of the international galloping  festival,  the Nigerian  flag bearers parading Idris Badamasi, Malik Badamasi, Murktar Adahama, Lalo Aiyu, Nura Suleiman and team Captain, Col. Yusuf Bello,  powered through a  determined African oppositions to land the title.

    In their opening game, Nigeria  defeated arch rivals Ghana 3-2 before dismissing the Pharaohs of Egypt 10-1 in the semifinal game to send a strong signal that they were in the continental championship for business.

    Yet before the final, the Ghanaians were earlier deemed by the rampant Niger Republic Hunters who had earlier pulled a sensational upset against Egypt to secure a final match ticket against Nigeria in order   to decide the overall  winner of the  2025 African Chovken Championship.

    Expectedly, the  ultimate final game decided before the over-crowded stands of Guards Polo, was tense as  Nigeria battler  their northern neighbours  for the continental Chovken title.

    But at the end of the 30 minutes decisive u final, it was the Green & White Eagles that came top 5-3 to earn their first African Chovken Championship title.

    “It’s historic and we are proud and thankful to God for this great feat,’ the team’s  captain, Col. Bello, said moments after the final hooter that brought the curtain down on the African showpiece.

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

    He added: “I want to praise the players for their fighting spirit, courage and commitment throughout our campaign and I want to specially salute the ICF for giving us this opportunity to showcase our teamwork and our teeming supporters who spur us on to this victory.”

    The maiden African Chovken Championship that was highlighted by a special day of cultural displays by popular groups , showcased  the rich cultural heritage of the winning  hosts, Nigeria, just as Niger Republic, Ghana and Egypt finished second, third and fourth winners respectively.

    President of African Region Chovken Federation, Nura  Kangiwa applauded the winners for their sportsmanship and discipline throughout the continental showpiece. Kangiwa who also commended the ICF for granting Nigeria the hosting right of the inaugural African championship, declared that the game has come to stay in Nigeria and indeed in the continent.

    Kangiwa who took Nigeria to  the first ever Chovken World Championship in Baku, Azerbaijan last year, thanked the International Chovken Federation President, Bahens Nabiyev and other chieftains of the world ruling body for the opportunity  given to the country and other African countries  to showcase their skills during the championship.

    “This is a great achievement for all of us as Nigerians and a very important victory for the whole country. We are proud of our players for their commitment and concentration throughout this historic event that puts our country on record as the giant of Chovken in Africa,”  declared Abdulkarim Jibrin, the President of Nigerian Chovken Federation.

  • PHOTO-SEEN-THESIS :Ngelale  meets legendary Pacquiao

    PHOTO-SEEN-THESIS :Ngelale  meets legendary Pacquiao

    Former Presidential Spokesperson Ajuri Ngelale  has shared an extraordinary moment last when he took a 13-hour flight from Manila to Los Angeles alongside boxing legend Manny Pacquiao.

    Ngelale conveyed his excitement about the trip, likening his thrill to that of a child receiving a beloved treat.

    Pacquiao, known for his illustrious boxing career, is reportedly traveling to the United States to attend the professional debut of his son, Jimuel, scheduled to take place later this month at Pechanga Resort Casino.

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

    Reflecting on his journey, Ngelale described Pacquiao as a source of inspiration, noting that the boxing icon mentioned sensing something positive about him, though he did not elaborate on what that intuition was.

    Ngelale expressed his deep admiration for Pacquiao’s remarkable life journey. He highlighted the boxer’s rise from the streets of General Santos City in the Philippines to becoming a celebrated figure in boxing history. Ngelale emphasized that Pacquiao’s story exemplifies the potential for greatness that can be achieved through determination, hard work, and a refusal to accept limits.

    In his enthusiastic tribute, Ngelale concluded:  “He epitomizes greatness.”

  • FIFA U-17  W’Cup: Tournament  enters knockouts  amid  ‘electric  and world class’ atmosphere

    FIFA U-17  W’Cup: Tournament  enters knockouts  amid  ‘electric  and world class’ atmosphere

    Attending a matchday at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 is to live a football experience like no other.

    The group stage of the new-look 48-team tournament concluded on Tuesday after nine consecutive days of unrelenting thrills and drama. With eight games taking place per day – many simultaneously – at Doha’s spectacular Aspire Zone, the grounds have been abuzz with activity.

    Fans have packed into this world-class sporting facility, creating a vibrant and electrifying atmosphere. The eight pitches are in close proximity, meaning chants and cheers from every game permeate across the complex.

    The energy is comparable to a major golf or tennis championship, with drama unfolding all around. Of course, there is nothing is quite like international football, and nothing quite like a World Cup; the emotions are heightened and raw, the roars visceral and thunderous.

    “It’s like nothing I’ve ever experienced before,” Italy defender Dauda Idrissa told FIFA. “There are fans from everywhere. It’s so loud! The fact we can showcase our skills in front of all these people is unreal.”

    USA sensation Cavan Sullivan  said: “Not a day goes by where I don’t have fun. I’m having a blast. It feels like a unified tournament, with cultures are coming together. It’s a pretty awesome opportunity.”

    Sullivan’s words were delivered with a beaming smile, and the positivity was palpable from players and coaches alike when asked to share their takes on the tournament so far.

    “It’s like a little football town here!” enthused Germany coach Marc Meister. “There is a great atmosphere. This is not only my perspective, I know it also comes from the boys. They are loving it. This is the quality of environment they want to get to (in the future).”

    England coach Neil Ryan worked at Manchester United’s academy for 19 years before joining the national team in 2022. He has coached at some of the most prestigious youth tournaments in the world – and revealed what sets this competition apart.

    “The crowds are very lively, and there’s a real ‘world’ flavour,” said Ryan, after his team beat Egypt to book their spot in the Round of 32. “You heard the Egyptian fans singing at our game, and our fans made a lot of noise too. And then you’re hearing all the other fields going off at different times. Who’s scoring, you’re not quite sure! It’s an amazing set-up. I’ve said to the players, we don’t want to be stopping (our journey) now. We want more and more of this.”

    Ryan added: “If I wasn’t a coach, I’d be a spectator, because there are such great crowds and there’s such a great feeling here.”

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

    Indeed, the stands have been filled to the rafters as supporters have travelled from across the globe to take in this ground-breaking competition.

    Thousands of fans have attended each matchday, with Day Pass options giving supporters access to multiple pitches.

    South African supporter Jordan, fresh from watching his beloved Bafana Bafana, said: “It’s electric here. There are so many pockets of energy. Then there are all the staff guiding everyone and people to help you with any questions. It’s been world-class. There’s also the Fan Zone where everyone congregates, which is superb.”l

    A visit to the Fan Zone provides an uplifting snapshot of how football can bring people together. Football-lovers of all ages and many different nationalities mingle in a buoyant, family-friendly environment. There are fairground games, music and dance performances, creative workshops, and a huge screen to watch the U-17 World Cup games.

    There is also a specially prepared five-a-side pitch for kids to display their skills, and it was here we caught up with Chilean supporter Pamela, who was cheering on her son Jose Tomas.

    “It’s a wonderful experience,” she said. “Qatar feels very safe. The children play together peacefully, and the event is very well organised for families to enjoy. It’s great seeing my son here playing now – he’s the goalkeeper! What I like most are the games for the children.”

    Croatia coach, Marijan Budimir, was able to offer a sporting and spectator perspective having brought his family along to the tournament. He revealed how the event, and city of Doha, has made quite an impression.

    “The atmosphere has been great, with lots of Croatian supporters, including my wife and kid,” he said. “We’re from beautiful place in Split, but they like Doha very much. They said they could live here! The tournament and organisation is perfect. It’s a beautiful vibe.”

    With the knockout phase set to begin today, November 14th – and yet more breath-taking games primed to wow thousands of vocal and passionate fans – those beautiful vibes show no signs of fading.

  • PLAY-OFFS: Four-star Super Eagles  soar over Panthers to final

    PLAY-OFFS: Four-star Super Eagles  soar over Panthers to final

    Akor’s , Ejuke’s goals with Osimhen’s brace seal victory

    To face DR Congo on SundayBy Tunde Liadi

    The Super Eagles boosted their quest for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a commanding 4–1 victory over the Panthers of Gabon in their CAF semi-final playoff clash  on Thursday at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.

    Nigeria sealed the win in extra time after both  sides tied 1-1 in  regulation time.

    Both sides began the encounter with attacking intent—Osimhen leading the Nigerian frontline while Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang spearheaded the Gabonese attack. Despite several attempts from both ends, the first half ended goalless.

    The second half saw high drama when Gabon appealed for a penalty but the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) overturned the decision. Nigeria finally broke the deadlock in the 78th  minute after Gabonese defender Aaron Appindangoye’s poor back pass was intercepted by Akor Adams, who calmly slotted home.

    The lead was short-lived, however, as Gabon equalized through a deflected shot from Mario Lemina that left the Nigerian goalkeeper stranded in the 89th  minute. Osimhen had a golden chance to seal the win late in regulation time but failed to convert, sending the game into extra time.

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

    In extra time, the Super Eagles took full control—Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead with a composed finish before Osimhen struck twice to put the result beyond doubt.

    With the emphatic win, Nigeria advanced to the final of the CAF playoff series, where they will face DR Congo who beat  Cameroon 1-0 in the other semi-finals in Rabat yesterday,  for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

    The playoffs are for the four best runners-up across the nine African qualifying groups that concluded last month with the winners all advancing to next year’s finals in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

    The winner of the playoff in Morocco proceeds to represent Africa in March’s inter-confederation playoffs where the last two places for the expanded 48-team World Cup will be decided.

  • Nigeria 4-1 Gabon: Chelle commends Team Spirit in Eagles victory over Panthers

    Nigeria 4-1 Gabon: Chelle commends Team Spirit in Eagles victory over Panthers

    By Daniel Oyekan

    Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has praised his players for their passion, focus, and unity following Nigeria’s crucial semi-final  victory yesterday  in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier Playoff in Rabat, Morocco.

    Speaking in his post-match briefing, Chelle expressed pride in the team’s performance, emphasizing that their collective commitment to his tactical instructions was key to securing the win.

    “I’m very proud of these guys because every time they stay focused on what I ask and what I want,” Chelle said. “Today, they showed the world the passion, the teamwork, and the spirit I’ve been talking about since I came.”

    The coach, who has consistently stressed the importance of building a recognizable playing identity for the Super Eagles, noted that the team’s progress extends beyond just results on the pitch.

     “Since I came, we’ve tried to work and create an identity — a sport project and a game project,” he explained. “For me, the most important thing for a team is to have an identity in how you defend and how you attack. That’s what we keep improving at every FIFA window.”

    Chelle admitted that limited time for technical sessions during international breaks had made it difficult to fully implement his tactical philosophy, but he commended the players for adapting quickly and showing steady improvement.

    Read Also: Reps to probe alleged misuse of FIFA grants by NFF

     “We don’t always get much time, sometimes just two or three training sessions but this group has improved mentally and technically,” he said. “They understand what I want to do for them, and that understanding showed today.”

    Despite the victory, Chelle maintained a measured tone, urging focus ahead of the final against Democratic Republic of Congo  who edged the Indomitable Lions 1-0 in the other semi-finals last night in Rabat .

    “The reality is that nothing is done yet. We still have two days and another match to play,” he cautioned. “After the second game, then we can smile.”

  • Tinubu lauds Super  Eagles on victory over Gabon

    Tinubu lauds Super  Eagles on victory over Gabon

    Says Nigeria’s march to the World Cup continues

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Super Eagles on their emphatic 4-1 victory over Gabon in the  FIFA World Cup qualifying Africa Play-Off match in Rabat, describing the performance as a clear expression of the Nigerian character that rises, adapts and prevails.

    In a statement by Special Adviser (Media & Publicity) , Mr. Bayo Onanuga , President Tinubu noted that the team played with courage, balance, precision and reminded the country that football has always been one of Nigeria’s most potent symbols of unity and shared pride.

    He stated that the victory adds fresh momentum to the national spirit and strengthens the collective resolve to secure a place at the World Cup.

    President Tinubu commended the players, the coaching staff, and the entire technical and administrative crew for their unwavering commitment to the national cause, adding that the dedication has brought the national team victory.

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

    He added that the victory reflects the deep pool of talent that Nigeria continues to produce and the determination of the Super Eagles to reclaim their place among the continent’s most respected teams.

    The President also praised the millions of Nigerians at home and abroad who continue to support the team with passion and loyalty, emphasising that their energy remains a powerful driving force for the players, especially at critical moments of international competition.

    In a message to the squad, President Tinubu reiterated the need for the team to build on this victory and remain focused on the remaining qualifiers. He stated that every match presents an opportunity to show discipline and character, and to prove again that Nigeria’s ambition is firmly within reach.

    According to President Tinubu: “This is the true Nigerian spirit of resilience against all odds. Do not stop until you secure a qualification. Super Eagles, keep soaring. The nation stands with you!”

  • Policewoman Juliet Ukah to face Egyptian  foe at PFL Finals in Cotonou 

    Policewoman Juliet Ukah to face Egyptian  foe at PFL Finals in Cotonou 

    By Olamilekan Israel.

    Africa’s undefeated mixed martial arts (MMA) sensation, Juliet Ukah, is set to make a triumphant return to the PFL SmartCage as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) brings its Africa Finals to Cotonou, Benin, on December 20th at the iconic Sofitel Dome.

    Ukah, who boasts a professional record of seven wins with no losses (7-0), will face Egypt’s Maryam Gaber, a boxer-turned MMA contender with a 3-0 record, in one of the two women’s Strawweight showcase bouts on the card.

    The 2025 PFL Africa Finals mark a historic moment for combat sports on the continent, as four champions will be crowned across the Heavyweight, Welterweight, Featherweight, and Bantamweight divisions. Each division winner will walk away with a $100,000 prize, one of the highest pay-outs for professional athletes in Africa.

    The event will be broadcast across Africa on Canal+, SuperSport, SportyTV, and StarzPlay, while fans in the United States can watch live for the first time on VICE TV and the PFL App.

    Ukah, fondly called the “Queen of the Cage”, made history as the first female fighter from Africa signed by the Professional Fighters League. She first competed during the league’s maiden African event in Cape Town, South Africa, where she gained attention for her skill, poise, and athletic discipline.

    A proud member of the Nigeria Police Force, Ukah draws inspiration from Chioma Ajunwa, Nigeria’s first Olympic gold medallist and fellow police officer, who won the women’s long jump event at the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games.

    Read Also: Play-Offs:  NFF tips Super Eagles to subdue Panthers  after pay dispute

    Since turning professional in April 2023, Ukah has remained undefeated, winning most of her bouts by decision and one by technical knockout (TKO). Her goal is to become the face of women’s MMA in Africa under the PFL banner.

    The clash between Ukah and Gaber represents more than just a contest, it is a defining moment for women’s MMA in Africa. The matchup highlights Nigeria’s growing reputation in global combat sports, with Ukah, Wasi Adeshina, and Cornel Thompson  who faces Benin’s Jean Do Santos in a Lightweight Showcase Bout proudly representing the nation on the PFL Africa Finals card.

    Fabrice Faux, CANAL+ Director of Content, Sport, and General Entertainment for French-speaking Africa, reaffirmed the broadcaster’s commitment to promoting African athletes and fight sports across the continent.

     “As part of our mission to foster fight sports for our African audience, we are proud to host and broadcast this historic event. The Republic of Benin, as well as the PFL, can rely on CANAL+ SPORT to expose this championship widely across Africa, ’’ said Faux.

  • Ade-Ojo promises bigger Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Golf Tourney in 2026

    Ade-Ojo promises bigger Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Golf Tourney in 2026

    The Chairman and founder of the most magnificent golf course in the West African sub-region, the Smokin Hills Golf Resort, Chief Michael Ade-Ojo and Managing Director, Toyota Nigeria Limited (TNL), Kunle Ade-Ojo have promised that the next edition of Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo Toyota Golf Tournament would give golfers an enduring experience to cherish for a long time.

    Speaking recently at a gala night climaxing this year’s edition of the tournament, Chief Ade-Ojo an avid golf lover appreciated all that graced the tournament .

    ” I want to thank everyone that has come here to honour this year’s tournament and by the special grace of God, golfers coming here next year will marvel at the lasting experience they will have “, he said.

    Earlier in his remarks, the TNL boss, Kunle Ade-Ojo was happy that they were able to get golfers back to the course after a five- year break.

    He said: “I am happy to see the large turnout golfers and persons in this year’s tournament. I am also happy that the golf course’s Fairway is revived again, very nice and the Green, a delight to see. So I am very happy that we are here and to also continue with the tournament again in memory of my late mother Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo. We have started this year and God’s willing , there won’t be any global disaster and so far as we’re alive and in good health and the country is economically sound and everything is okay, we are also thinking of how we can make it better next year. So these are the things that we are putting in place to continue to remember her.”.

    Read Also: Reps to probe alleged misuse of FIFA grants by NFF

    Kunle also disclosed their plans of making the tournament a continental event where the best of golfers from across the continent can come here and play adding that, they’re trying to put in place the necessary things on ground.

     “Making this tournament and international event is one of the things that I and the Chairman of TNL and the Smokin Hills have spoken about, but, I think for us to bring in international players, we need accommodation inside the Golf resort because, that is very key and we are looking to start building a Five Star Hotel and Resort kind of a resort because, most people come from Akure to play. So hopefully , if not next year, at least from the next two years, we’ll have hotel accommodation as part of the Smokin Hills Golf Resort where players can come weekend and lodge here and wouldn’t have to travel far away to do their game and enjoy themselves and go. For the international ones, “Once we are settled with the criteria that we needs to meet, these are things we should look into. Once accommodation is sorted out any other thing that is required , we’ll do and we’ll start inviting the golfers and that will obviously be a different game from what we are having today,” he said.

  • Ojelabi football tourney  begins in Badagry  tomorrow

    Ojelabi football tourney  begins in Badagry  tomorrow

    Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Tolani Sule, believes the Lagos All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi Football Competition (Ojelabi Cup), scheduled to begin tomorrow, would discover talents among youths in Badagry Division.

    He said this at a news briefing organised by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the competition in Lagos.

    Sule said: ‘’I am sure at the end of this football tournament, we will come up with new Osimhens, new stars. The new talents will not only make themselves or their families proud, but also Badagry Division.

    “When the chairman came up with the idea of sponsoring a football tournament in Badagry Division, I was so happy and promised that I would do anything to support it.

    “This is because it is going to benefit our youths, which form the largest percentage of our population.

    “We are all aware that employment opportunities in the government and companies are no longer enough for our youths.

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    “But if platforms are provided, it will help a lot of our youths in promoting and engaging them.

    “This competition will give our youths opportunities to display their capacity and  get them enough exposure that will lead them to greater heights.”

    Delivering the message of the APC chairman in Lagos State, Mrs Bola Akingbehin, his media aide, advised everyone to promote peace, unity and fair play.

    The Chairman of LOC of the competition,  Deji Williams, said over 74 teams had registered for the competition in Badagry Division.

  • Remo Stars suffer first home loss in 56 games

    Remo Stars suffer first home loss in 56 games

    Remo Stars have lost their home invincibility in the Nigeria Premier Football League after they suffered first defeat in 56 home League games following a  1-0 loss to Rangers International  yesterday at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta.

    The Flying Antelopes got the sucker punch in the 23rd minute of the game through Godwin Obaje and the Sky Blue Stars who are the reigning champions could not muster a comeback.

    Remo Stars have been experiencing a terrible season and presently languishing in the 16th  spot- a spot outside the relegation zone with 13 points from 11 games. They will struggle to defend the title they won last season for the first time in the club’s history.

    Read Also: TNFF  underlines  global economic power of football

    Remo Stars last home defeat before yesterday was their 3-1 loss to Kano Pillars on May 28th , 2022 which amounted to 1,266 days ago. This defeat came days after the club survived another home defeat when they faced El Kanemi Warriors also in Abeokuta.

    They needed two stoppage goals one including a 95th  minute strike to beat the Borno Army who were leading 1-0 before the late collapse.

    The win meant a lot to Rangers International FC who bagged their first away win of the season and have moved to the fifth spot with 19 points from 12 games.