The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Moses Simon named in Ligue One  Team of the Week

    Moses Simon named in Ligue One  Team of the Week

    Super Eagles and Paris FC winger, Moses Simon, has been named in the French Ligue 1 Team of the Week after a dazzling performance in his side’s 1-0 victory over AS Monaco.

    Simon proved decisive for Paris FC, netting the only goal of the encounter to secure all three points away from home. His pace, creativity, and relentless energy troubled Monaco’s defence throughout the match, earning him widespread plaudits from fans and analysts.

    Read Also: NFF  hails Tinubu’s  unflinching support for Nigerian football

    League organizers recognized his outstanding display by including him among the best eleven players of the week — a testament to his growing influence in the French top flight.

    The Nigerian international’s consistent form has been crucial to Paris FC’s steady climb up the Ligue 1 table, and his contributions continue to highlight his importance to both club and country as the season progresses.

  • Joshua may return in undercard fight  Nov. 15th

    Joshua may return in undercard fight  Nov. 15th

    Eddie Hearn has revealed that Anthony Joshua is set to return to the ring before the end of the year.

    The British boxing star last fought in September 2024, when he was knocked out by Daniel Dubois at Wembley.

    Despite more than a year away from the ring, where the 36-year-old underwent elbow surgery, promoter Hearn has now issued a positive update on Joshua’s return.

    He suggested that the heavyweight could return before the end of the year.

    When asked if Joshua will fight on one of three Matchroom events on November 15, December 13 and December 27, Hurn replied: “Yes”.

    Read Also: NFF  hails Tinubu’s  unflinching support for Nigerian football

    The promoter added: “All I’m saying is, if he fights this year, it will just be a run out fight.

    “Because, coming back and fighting in a big arena, in a tough fight after being out for a year and a half, it’s not easy.

    “And it isn’t about the money in this fight this year.”

    The Briton was rumoured to be eyeing up a fight against rival Tyson Fury, who has retired from the sport.

    AJ has also been heavily linked to events in Africa during early 2026, with several opponents putting their names forward, including Tony Yoka.

    He could appear on the undercard of Chris Eubank Jr’s fight against Conor Benn in a huge rematch on November 15.

    If the turnaround is too tight, the former World Heavyweight Champion could also be lined up to appear in the US on the undercard of Diego Pacheco vs Kevin Lele Sadjo on December 13 in California.

  • HFN President reaffirms revival  plans for handball

    HFN President reaffirms revival  plans for handball

    Newly elected President of the Handball Federation of Nigeria (HFN),  Jibril Saidu Ojih, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to reviving the sport from the grassroots through the active involvement of zonal representatives.

    Ojih made the pledge at the finals of the Lions/Grasshoppers Handball Legends U15 Boys and Girls Championship held in Enugu at the weekend. According to him, the HFN board is determined to unearth and develop young players from every zone to strengthen the country’s handball structure.

     “Our target is to ensure that each zone of the federation takes full ownership of grassroots development. We want to keep discovering and nurturing young players who can represent Nigeria at all levels,” Ojih stated.

    The Secretary General of the Commonwealth Handball Association commended the competition’s organizers, led by the Southeast Zonal Representative, Chief Emmanuel Asogwa, for aligning with HFN’s developmental vision. He also called for greater collaboration with state governments and corporate sponsors to sustain grassroots tournaments nationwide.

    Ojih further applauded the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Lyod Ekweremadu, for attending the event, noting that his presence signaled renewed government support for handball in the region. He urged Southeast handball veterans to establish a veterans’ club to help mentor young players and promote the sport’s legacy.

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    In his remarks, Chief Emmanuel Asogwa thanked the HFN president for his visit and unwavering support for the Southeast zone. He revealed plans to host a special awards night to celebrate handball legends from the region for their contributions to the sport.

    Also speaking, Hon. Ekweremadu praised Ojih for choosing Enugu for his first official engagement since assuming office, while commending Asogwa’s long-term dedication to handball development. He encouraged the young players to view the championship as a launching pad for their careers and announced a financial donation from the Enugu State Ministry of Youth and Sports to boost the sport’s growth.

    The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Associate Member Award of the Lions/Grasshoppers International Handball Legends to Ojih in recognition of his leadership and contribution to the sport.

    In the competition, Team Enugu dominated both the boys’ and girls’ categories to emerge champions. Imo and Abia States finished second and third respectively in the boys’ event, while Abia and Imo swapped positions in the girls’ division.

    Trophies and certificates were presented to winners at a colourful closing ceremony that capped what was described as one of the most successful editions of the annual grassroots championship.

  • Nasarawa Amazons Chairperson dedicates SWAN Honour to Gov. Sule, club

    Nasarawa Amazons Chairperson dedicates SWAN Honour to Gov. Sule, club

    Chairperson of Nasarawa Amazons Football Club, Hajiya Husaina Suleiman Nagogo, has reaffirmed the club’s determination to win the 2025/2026 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) Premiership title, attributing the team’s growing success to collective commitment and discipline across all levels of the club.

    Speaking after receiving the SWAN Distinguished Service Award (SDSA) at the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria’s (SWAN) 60th anniversary celebration in Abuja last weekend, Hajiya Husaina said the recognition was both humbling and motivating, describing it as a reward for years of dedication to women’s football development, especially in Northern Nigeria.

    According to her, Nasarawa Amazons’ strong showing in recent seasons has been the result of teamwork and unity among players, coaches, and management.

     “The secret of Nasarawa Amazons’ impressive performance is the commitment of everyone at the club — from the players to the technical crew and other backroom staff. I take the players as my children, and they have shown great support and determination to see the team succeed,” she said.

    The Amazons have already signaled their intent for the coming campaign with an impressive outing at the Governor Douye Diri Preseason Tournament in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where they defeated hosts and defending league champions Bayelsa Queens in the final to lift the maiden trophy.

     “We just came back from the preseason tournament in Yenagoa where some of the best teams in Nigeria assembled. It was the first of its kind in Bayelsa, and we won despite facing Bayelsa Queens with all their newly signed quality players,” she added.

    Read Also: NFF chieftains commend Salami on revival of Shooting Stars

    Reflecting on last season, Hajiya Husaina noted that the Amazons narrowly missed out on the league title not for lack of quality, but due to factors beyond their control. She expressed confidence that with renewed focus, the team would go all the way this season.

     “We want to win the league title this time around. We narrowly missed it last season, not because we were not good, but luck was not on our side. We are hopeful that our chances are very bright in the coming season,” she assured.

    On her national recognition by SWAN, Hajiya Husaina expressed surprise and gratitude, describing it as an unexpected honour that acknowledges her efforts to grow women’s football.

     “I was not expecting the award, but I never knew that people recognised the role I have played and continue to play in developing women’s football, especially in the North. I am very grateful to Almighty God for this,” she said.

    She  also paid glowing tribute to Nasarawa State Governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule, for his unwavering support to the team, stressing that his contributions have been vital to the Amazons’ progress and visibility in the Nigerian women’s football scene.

  • Falconets  begin  WAFU-B campaign against Black Maidens

    Falconets  begin  WAFU-B campaign against Black Maidens

    Nigeria’s U20 women’s team, the Falconets, will begin their 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Girls Championship  against defending champions, the Black maidens of Ghana,  in a high-profile clash on Saturday, November 8, in Cotonou, Benin Republic.

    The tournament, scheduled from November 7 to 12, introduces a new round-robin format, replacing the traditional knockout system. Each team will face one another home and away, with the side finishing top emerging as champions.

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    Under coach Moses Aduku, the Falconets will field a mix of experienced and young players as they aim to reaffirm Nigeria’s regional dominance. They will meet Benin on November 9, face Ghana again on November 11, and conclude their campaign against the hosts on November 12.

    The revised structure is designed to enhance player development and competitive balance, aligning with WAFU’s long-term vision for women’s football in West Africa.

    Meanwhile, organisers have appointed   Tophic Abdul Kadir as the Media Officer for the upcoming WAFU B U20 Girls Championship.

    Recall that the Ghanaian  served in the same capacity during the WAFU B U20 Boys Championship held in Ghana in July 2025.

    Tophic is currently the Senior Manager, Communications at the  Ghana Football  Association(GFA).

  • Madugu eyes Real Sociedad’s Imade for Super Falcons

    Madugu eyes Real Sociedad’s Imade for Super Falcons

    Super Falcons head coach, Justin Madugu, has expressed interest in Edna Imade, the Real Sociedad forward who is eligible to represent both Nigeria and Spain, ahead of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

    Imade’s impressive form in the Spanish Liga F has caught the attention of the Nigerian tactician, who revealed ongoing efforts by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to secure her commitment to the national team.

    Read Also: GTI seeks investors’ partnership after successful NFF’s AGM

     “I’ve been following her progress closely,” Madugu said. “She showed interest in representing Nigeria initially, but despite several attempts to reach her and her club, she is yet to make a final decision. Whatever choice she makes, we will respect it.”

    Madugu continues to scout overseas-based talents as he builds a formidable squad capable of challenging for continental glory in Morocco next year.

  • Vitinha  predicts tough Bayern’s test for PSG in Paris

    Vitinha  predicts tough Bayern’s test for PSG in Paris

    Portuguese midfielder Vitinha said Paris Saint-Germain’s home clash with undefeated Bayern Munich in the Champions League today will be a meeting between “the two best teams in Europe”.

    PSG come into the sternest test yet of their European title defence top of the French Ligue 1 and with three wins from three so far in the league phase.

    But their opponents, Bayern, have started their season with a European record 15 wins in 15 outings, and sit second behind only PSG in the standings in the continent’s elite club competition.

     “We are the two best teams in Europe. Bayern are in fantastic form. We’re also doing well, continuing our momentum from last year,” Vitinha told his pre-match press conference.

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    But as for who is mightiest between the two heavyweights, the 25-year-old said Tuesday’s match will tell.

     “The answer will be given tomorrow. We have to talk on the pitch,” he told reporters.

     “When you’re a player, you want to play in this type of match because everyone wants to see it, and people will say, ‘this team is better because they won’.”

    PSG coach Luis Enrique was, however, more temperate in his build-up to the game.

     “To find out who is the best team in Europe, we have to wait until the end of the season and see how many trophies each team wins,” the 55-year-old said.

     “Right now, it’s clear they are very strong… It’s incredible that they’ve won their last 15 matches. We already have trouble winning three or four matches.”

    If PSG have been less dominant than Bayern domestically – drawing three matches and losing one in 11 league outings – Luis Enrique said supporters should still “trust” his side to show they can best the Bavarians.

     “Do you think that I or the supporters should assess our team? I don’t think so, we deserve to have a little trust,” the Spaniard said. “But tomorrow (Tuesday) at the Parc des Princes with our supporters, we have the confidence we need to overcome their pressing game.”

  • UCL: PSG to unleash  fit Dembele against  Bayern juggernaut

    UCL: PSG to unleash  fit Dembele against  Bayern juggernaut

    Ousmane Dembele, who scored in Paris St Germain’s win over Bayern Munich in the Club World Cup quarter-finals, is available for  today’s Champions League clash between the French and German champions, PSG coach Luis Enrique said.

    France striker Dembele, who had scored in stoppage time when a nine-man PSG beat Bayern 2-0 in July, left the field after feeling discomfort in his right thigh at Lorient last week, and only played 18 minutes in Saturday’s Ligue 1 match against Nice.

    “We do not take risks with any players. But Ousmane Dembele is fit, he has been in every training session for the last two weeks,” Luis Enrique told reporters .

    “He is improving his physical fitness and he will certainly play tomorrow. I do not know for how many minutes, but he will play because he is ready to compete.”

    Bayern have won every single match since their loss to European champions PSG. They have won 15 competitive matches in a row, including all nine in their Bundesliga campaign.

    Both Bayern and PSG have won all three of their Champions League matches so far and are equal on goal difference.

    PSG are unbeaten in their last eight competitive matches and the manager is confident of extending that streak at home against the Bavarians.

    Read Also: NFF  hails Tinubu’s  unflinching support for Nigerian football

    “We know how difficult it will be. We are ready and motivated to win,” Luis Enrique said.

    “I think there will be similar situations to what we saw in the United States last summer, with lots of intensity… in front of our supporters, with the atmosphere we created every game, we’re confident that we can improve our performance level to try to overcome their pressure.”

    UCL: TODAY’S  MATCHES

    Napoli vs. Frankfurt

    Slavia Prague vs. Arsenal

    Atletico vs. Saint-Gilloise

    Juventus vs. Sporting CP

    Liverpool vs. Madrid

    Olympiakos vs. PSV

    PSG vs. Bayern

    Tottenham vs. Copenhagen

  • Bronze, Yamal make history in Fifpro World XI

    Bronze, Yamal make history in Fifpro World XI

    England’s Lucy Bronze has made history by being named in the Fifpro Women’s World XI for a record eighth time.

    Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has also entered the history books, becoming the youngest player to feature in the Men’s World XI.

    Chelsea defender Bronze is one of six England players in the Women’s World XI.

    Forward Chloe Kelly and Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton feature for the first time, while England captain Leah Williamson and forward Alessia Russo are also included after they helped the Lionesses to win back-to-back European titles.

    The final English player is Chelsea defender Millie Bright, who did not play at Euro 2025 but still makes the cut.

    At the age of 18, Spain’s Yamal breaks Kylian Mbappe’s record from 2018 when the French forward made the Men’s XI aged 19.

    Mbappe has also been included this time, as are England midfielders Cole Palmer and Jude Bellingham.

    The team is dominated by Paris St-Germain’s Champions League-winning side, with five of the players – including goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who now plays for Manchester City – in the XI.

    Defenders Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, midfielder Vitinha and forward Ousmane Dembele join Donnarumma, who signed for Manchester City at the start of September.

    Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk and Barcelona’s Pedri complete the line-up but Manchester City striker Erling Haaland misses out.

    Read Also: NFF chieftains commend Salami on revival of Shooting Stars

    The Fifpro World XI is the only global football award voted for exclusively by professional footballers.

    More than 26,000 players from 68 counties selected their men’s and women’s teams this year.

    Fifpro Men’s World XI:

    Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris St-Germain/Manchester City, Italy)

    Defenders: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool, Netherlands), Achraf Hakimi (PSG, Morocco), Nuno Mendes (PSG, Portugal)

    Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England), Cole Palmer (Chelsea, England), Pedri (Barcelona, Spain), Vitinha (PSG, Portugal)

    Forwards: Ousmane Dembele (PSG, France) Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid, France), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain)

    Fifpro Women’s World XI:

    Goalkeeper: Hannah Hampton (Chelsea, England)

    Defenders: Ona Batlle (Barcelona, Spain), Millie Bright (Chelsea, England), Lucy Bronze (Chelsea, England), Leah Williamson (Arsenal, England)

    Midfielders: Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona, Spain), Ghizlane Chebbak (Badalona/Al Hilal, Morocco), Alexia Putellas (Barcelona, Spain)

    Forwards: Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride, Zambia), Chloe Kelly (Manchester City/Arsenal, England), Alessia Russo (Arsenal, England).

  • FULL LIST: Nigerian managers who have coached abroad

    FULL LIST: Nigerian managers who have coached abroad

    Flying Eagles head coach Aliyu Zubairu has joined the growing list of Nigerian tacticians managing clubs outside the country following his appointment as head coach of Egyptian second-division side, Telecom Egypt SC.

    For decades, Nigerian players have made their mark across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Now, an increasing number of Nigerian managers are following suit and getting opportunities to showcase their tactical prowess on the global stage.

    Here are seven Nigerians who have coached abroad:

    Ndubuisi Egbo

    Egbo made history in 2020 when he guided KF Tirana to the Albanian league title — becoming the first African coach to win a European top-flight crown and to qualify a team for the UEFA Champions League.

    Sunday Oliseh

    Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh has managed several clubs in Europe, including Belgian sides Eupen and RCS Verviétois. He also enjoyed a notable spell with Fortuna Sittard in the Netherlands.

    Emmanuel Amuneke

    AFCON 1994 winner Emmanuel Amuneke has coached across multiple countries, including Sudan with Al Khartoum Watani and Saudi Arabia. He also guided Tanzania to AFCON qualification as their national team coach.

    Harrison Okagbue

    Okagbue served as head coach of the Uganda national team between 1999 and 2001, earning widespread respect across East Africa.

    Christian Chukwu

    Former Super Eagles manager Christian Chukwu handled the Kenya national team in the late 1990s, contributing to their tactical development during his tenure.

    Samson Siasia

    Siasia was briefly appointed as head coach of Durgapur Vox Champions in India’s Bengal Premier League Soccer in 2012, though the project was halted before the league commenced.