The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Oboabona  wants more creative support for ‘rampant’ Osimhen

    Oboabona  wants more creative support for ‘rampant’ Osimhen

    Daniel Oyekan

    Former Super Eagles defender Godfrey  Oboabona has appealed to Nigerians to rally behind Victor Osimhen and the national team, stressing that the striker needs greater creative support and collective encouragement rather than criticism.

    Oboabona, a 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner, spoke in defense of the Napoli forward amid growing scrutiny over his recent performances for the Super Eagles. The former centre-back emphasized that Osimhen’s work ethic and commitment on the pitch are unquestionable but noted that a lack of creativity in midfield has limited his goal-scoring chances.

     “One thing I want people to understand is that a tree does not make a forest,” Oboabona said. “Osimhen is overworking himself. His attitude on the pitch for the Super Eagles is very solid. We just don’t have a creative midfielder who can create chances for him and make those penetrative passes. He’s doing his best as a striker.”

    The former Sunshine Stars and Çaykur Rizespor defender called for patience and unity among fans, urging Nigerians to maintain their long-standing support for the national team regardless of temporary setbacks.

    Read Also: World Cup 26: Sports Editors berate NFF on Eagles’  poor Mundial campaign

    “Whoever says Osimhen is not scoring enough for Nigeria should also understand the circumstances,” he added. “The same love and support fans have shown the Super Eagles when we were winning should continue. That spirit of belief is what the team needs right now.”

    Oboabona, who made 39 international appearances and scored once for Nigeria, was part of the squad that lifted the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and featured at both the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup and 2014 FIFA World Cup.

    Now retired from professional football, the 34-year-old remains an influential voice in Nigerian football, often speaking on the need for balance, discipline, and collective responsibility in the national setup.

    As Nigeria prepares for crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, Oboabona’s message serves as a reminder that behind every great striker lies a team effort  and that national success depends on shared belief both on and off the pitch.

  • AFN expects busy, exciting  season ahead of Enugu 2026

    AFN expects busy, exciting  season ahead of Enugu 2026

    Board member and Performance Director of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), Victor Okorie, has assured Nigerian athletes of an action-packed season as preparations intensify for the 2026 Enugu National Sports Festival.

    Okorie, who also sits on the festival’s Local Organizing Committee(LOC), confirmed that the AFN is close to finalizing its new-season calendar to give athletes sufficient time to plan and peak for key events.

     “AFN board members are working tirelessly to release the season’s calendar early,” he said. “Next year will be one of the busiest yet with the Sports Festival, Commonwealth Games, National Trials and other events all lined up.”

    Read Also: Jalla kicks over undue  FIFA ‘s intervention in NFF’s electoral process

    He revealed ongoing discussions with top sportswear companies to secure a reward-oriented partnership for athletes’ kits, and praised the National Sports Commission for its support while calling for more private investment in athletics.

    Turning his attention to Enugu 2026, the U.S.-based former hurdler said the festival would serve as a major boost for both the state’s economy and its sporting culture.

     “Enugu has the talent, infrastructure, and determination to challenge top contenders like Delta, Lagos, Rivers, Edo, and Bayelsa,” he declared.

  • NLO’s club  owner  sponsors seven for NIS Coaching Course

    NLO’s club  owner  sponsors seven for NIS Coaching Course

    MLS-based Nigerian forward Ibrahim Sunusi has continued his impactful off-field initiatives by sponsoring seven grassroots coaches from his native Keffi Local Government Area to undergo a basic coaching course at the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Abuja.

    The CF Montréal striker, already known for his humanitarian efforts in healthcare, education, and social welfare, said the move is part of his long-term plan to strengthen football development in Nasarawa State.

    “This training goes beyond football. These coaches are not just trainers—they’re role models. When we build them, we build better players and better citizens,” Sunusi explained.

    Read Also: NFF, Jalla bicker over planned workshop on  amendment of statues at Ibadan AGM

    All expenses for the coaching programme, including tuition and logistics, are fully covered by Sunusi.

    The 23-year-old star, through his NLO club Si14 FC Keffi, has created a platform for talent discovery and now aims to ensure those talents are nurtured by well-trained mentors.

     “We must equip the teachers first,” he added. “This is the beginning of something bigger for grassroots football in Nasarawa.”

    Sunusi’s latest gesture reinforces his reputation as a footballer with a purpose, using his success abroad to empower his community and redefine what it means to give back through sport.

  • Kompany to keep Bayern’s job  until 2029

    Kompany to keep Bayern’s job  until 2029

    Vincent Kompany has extended his contract as coach of Bayern Munich by two years until 2029, according to the  Bundesliga champions.

    Kompany was not Bayern’s first choice when he was appointed in the summer of 2024, but the Belgian reclaimed the German title for the Bavarians in his debut season at the club.

    “It feels like I’ve been here a lot longer and that I know the club well,” former Manchester City captain Kompany said in a statement.“It’s been a great experience so far. We’ve started on a wonderful journey. Let’s keep working hard and celebrate much more success!”

    At a press conference later on Tuesday ahead of Bayern’s Champions League home match against Club Brugge a day later, Kompany said he was “busy preparing for the games” when Bayern bosses approached him about an extension.

    “When the proposal came up, and my only request was that it doesn’t become a big topic and that we could quickly refocus on the next game.

    “Personally, everything just feels right in Munich… There aren’t many places better than Bayern.”

    Bayern defender Jonathan Tah told reporters: “we’re all delighted about the contract extension.”

    The 39-year-old coach has Bayern flying with 11 wins in 11 games this season, sitting atop the Champions League and Bundesliga tables.

    “Vincent Kompany has brought the fun back to FC Bayern –- and the spark has really caught on. Under his leadership, a real team has grown that plays dominant and attractive football,” Bayern CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen said.

    “I like Vincent’s level-headedness. He never pushes himself into the limelight and makes our players better with his meticulous work.”

    Kompany’s appointment came as a surprise when Bayern paid a £10 million ($13 million) to release him from his contract with Burnley in 2024.

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

    “When we appointed Vinny, we had a clear vision of our shared path and he quickly proved that he would help FC Bayern move forward -– both on and off the pitch,” said Max Eberl, the club’s sporting director.

     “He’s a role model who unites players, fans and everyone at the club, and we want to build something long-term with him.”

    Under Kompany, Burnley won promotion to the Premier League but were relegated after just one season, recording the lowest top-flight points tally in their history.

    Despite winning 12 of the previous 13 Bundesliga titles, stability in the Bayern dugout has been rare during that run.

    Pep Guardiola, whose three-year stint at the club ended in 2016, was the last Bayern coach to complete at least two full seasons.

    Before bringing Kompany to the club, Bayern reportedly tried to sign Xabi Alonso, Julian Nagelsmann, Oliver Glasner and Ralf Rangnick but were knocked back by each candidate.

    When an attempt to hold on to then coach Thomas Tuchel, who had already agreed to leave at the end of the season, was also rebuffed, Bayern turned to Kompany.

  • Dyche to tutor Aina, Awoniyi at  Nottingham Forest

    Dyche to tutor Aina, Awoniyi at  Nottingham Forest

    Nigeria International duo of Ola Aina and Taiwo Awoniyi will henceforth be working under  a new manager after Nottingham Forest  announced the  appointment of Sean Dyche as their new head coach on a deal until 2027.

    The 54-year-old former Burnley and Everton boss has replaced Ange Postecoglou after the Australian was sacked on Saturday following just 40 days in charge at the City Ground.

    Dyche, a Forest trainee under celebrated manager Brian Clough, becomes the club’s third boss this season in what is his first job since leaving Everton at the start of this year.

     “A respected and experienced Premier League manager, Dyche brings the perfect blend of character, tactical acumen and proven achievement to guide the club through its next chapter,” said a Forest statement.

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

    Dyche’s first game in charge will be tomorrow’s Europa League tie at home to Porto.

    Postecoglou was sacked just minutes after Saturday’s 3-0 loss to Chelsea, making him the shortest-serving permanent manager in Premier League history.

    Owner Evangelos Marinakis dismissed the former Spurs boss after no wins from his opening eight games.

    Postecoglou was appointed following the exit of Nuno Espirito Santo, who was himself sacked in September following the collapse of his relationship with Marinakis.

    Forest are in the Premier League relegation zone with just five points after eight games despite a squad bolstered by over £100 million ($134 million) of investment during the transfer window.

  • UCL: Gyökeres scores twice as Arsenal beat Atletico 4-0

    UCL: Gyökeres scores twice as Arsenal beat Atletico 4-0

    Arsenal struck four times in a blistering 14-minute spell to thrash Atletico Madrid and maintain their perfect Champions League start.

    After a tense first half, Gabriel Magalhães broke the deadlock with a header from Declan Rice’s free-kick in the 57th minute. Gabriel Martinelli added a second before Viktor Gyökeres ended his goal drought with two quickfire strikes.

    Read Also: Gbajabiamila, Pate call for stronger collaboration for Nigerian health security

    The Gunners have now won all three of their group games without conceding a goal.

  • UCL: Fermin’s hat-trick, Rashford brace help Barca’s 6-1 win over Olympiacos

    UCL: Fermin’s hat-trick, Rashford brace help Barca’s 6-1 win over Olympiacos

    Fermín López netted a hat-trick and Marcus Rashford scored twice as Barcelona stormed to a 6-1 Champions League win over Olympiacos.

    Lopez struck twice in the first half before completing his treble late on, while Rashford took his group-stage tally to four goals in three games. Lamine Yamal also scored from the spot on a night he became the youngest player to reach 25 Champions League appearances (18 years, 100 days).

    Read Also: Benin vs. Nigeria: Super Falcons’  Lomé  camp bubbles  ahead of WAFCON Qualifiers

    Olympiacos briefly threatened a comeback after Ayoub El Kaabi converted a penalty following a handball by Eric Garcia, but their hopes faded when Santiago Hezze was sent off minutes later.

    Barcelona now sit on six points from three matches, while Olympiacos remain bottom with one.

  • Nottingham Forest appoint Sean Dyche as new manager

    Nottingham Forest appoint Sean Dyche as new manager

    Nottingham Forest have appointed former Burnley and Everton boss Sean Dyche as their new manager.

    The 54-year-old Englishman, who has signed a contract to run until the summer of 2027, becomes the Forest’s third different boss this season.

    Dyche succeeds Ange Postecoglou, who lasted just 39 days and was sacked 17 minutes after Saturday’s 3-0 defeat by Chelsea in the Premier League.

    Postecoglu did not win any of his eight games in charge – drawing two and losing six – after he was brought in to replace Nuno Espirito Santo, who was sacked just three matches into the campaign.

    Forest are 18th in the league table after one win in eight games during what has been a difficult start to the season.

    Dyche’s first game will be a Europa League game at home to Porto on Thursday before Forest are at Bournemouth in the Premier League on Sunday.

    Read Also: Nottingham Forest manager laments Aina absence

    The process to appoint a new manager was led by Forest’s global head of football Edu Gaspar and global technical director George Syrianos.

    Former Italy and Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini also held discussions with Forest about the post, while Fulham manager Marco Silva was also known to be admired by the club.

    “A respected and experienced Premier League manager, Dyche brings the perfect blend of character, tactical acumen and proven achievement to guide the club through its next chapter,” said a Forest statement.

    “As a former Forest youth player who lives locally, Dyche also has a deep understanding of the values and pride of Forest and its supporters.

    “His appointment represents the best opportunity for a successful and competitive season across both domestic and European competitions.”

    Dyche’s coaching staff will include Ian Woan and Steven Stone, who both played for Nottingham Forest.

    “It’s a mess isn’t it?” said BBC Sport football pundit Chris Sutton on the Monday Night Club before Dyche’s appointment was confirmed.

    “If Dyche gets over the line it is an admission that they got it wrong with Ange Postecoglou and are thinking about survival.

    “Dyche has always managed clubs where it has been a struggle. He bucked the trend at Burnley and got the best out of the players he had and proved himself to be an extremely capable manager.

    “At Everton he took over a team in trouble and stabilised the club. He had points deductions to contend with.

    “Forest want to stay in the league so it seems a sensible appointment. They won’t go down, they have too many good players.”

    BBC Sports

  • Full List of Countries that have qualified for 2026 FIFA World Cup

    Full List of Countries that have qualified for 2026 FIFA World Cup

    With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, excitement is building for what will be the biggest tournament in history, featuring 48 teams for the first time.

    Set to take place across Canada, Mexico and the United States, the expanded World Cup promises more drama, more nations, and more unforgettable moments.

    So far, 28 countries have officially booked their spots, leaving 20 places still up for grabs as qualifying campaigns continue around the world.

    Here are Countries that have qualified for 2026 FIFA World Cup

    Host Nations

    Canada
    Canada completes the trio of host nations for the 2026 tournament, marking the first time the Maple Leafs will appear in back-to-back World Cups. Their previous appearances were in 1986 and 2022, both ending at the group stage.

    Mexico
    Mexico will host the World Cup for a record third time after staging it in 1970 and 1986. The 2026 edition marks their 18th appearance, with their best results being quarter-final finishes in both home tournaments.

    United States
    The U.S. team automatically qualifies as co-hosts, securing a second consecutive appearance. This will be their 12th World Cup and second on home soil after USA ’94. Their best finish remains the semi-finals at the inaugural 1930 World Cup.

    Asia (AFC)

    Japan
    Japan eased through qualification to secure their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance with three games to spare in the final Asian qualifying round.

    Korea Republic (South Korea)
    The Taeguk Warriors will compete in their 11th consecutive World Cup after a 2-0 win over Iraq in June.

    Iran
    Iran qualified for their fourth straight World Cup after a dramatic 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan on March 25.

    Uzbekistan
    History was made as Uzbekistan secured a top-two finish in the Asian qualifiers, earning their first-ever World Cup appearance.

    Jordan
    Jordan also made history by qualifying for their maiden World Cup after a 3-0 win over Oman.

    Australia
    The Socceroos earned their sixth straight World Cup spot after a comeback 2-1 victory over Saudi Arabia, marking their first direct qualification since 2014.

    Saudi Arabia
    Saudi Arabia booked their third consecutive World Cup berth with a goalless draw against Iraq. They will aim to surpass their best-ever Round of 16 finish from USA 1994.

    Qatar
    The 2022 hosts secured qualification with a 2-1 win over the UAE, thanks to assists from star forward Akram Afif.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: African countries with most appearances at FIFA World Cup

    Africa (CAF)

    Morocco
    The 2022 semi-finalists became the first African team to qualify for the 2026 tournament after a dominant 5-0 win over Niger.

    Tunisia
    Tunisia sealed qualification with two games to spare, maintaining an impressive defensive record throughout the qualifiers.

    Egypt
    Led by Mohamed Salah, Egypt booked their ticket with a 3-0 victory over Djibouti, returning to the World Cup after missing Qatar 2022.

    Algeria
    The Desert Foxes return to the global stage for the first time since 2014, following a 3-0 win over Somalia.

    Ghana
    The Black Stars will make their fifth World Cup appearance after topping Group I with a crucial 1-0 victory over Comoros.

    Côte d’Ivoire
    The Elephants secured their place with a 3-0 win against Kenya, marking their return after a decade-long absence.

    Senegal
    The Lions of Teranga topped Group B after a 4-0 win over Mauritania, qualifying for their fourth World Cup.

    South Africa
    Bafana Bafana ended a 16-year wait by defeating Rwanda 3-0 to finish top of Group C ahead of Nigeria.

    Cabo Verde
    Cabo Verde made history by qualifying for their first-ever World Cup after topping Group D with a 3-0 win over Eswatini.

    South America (CONMEBOL)

    Argentina
    The defending champions were the first South American team to qualify, securing their place after Bolivia’s draw with Uruguay.

    Brazil
    Under new coach Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil maintained their perfect qualification record, extending their streak as the only nation to feature in every World Cup.

    Uruguay
    Marcelo Bielsa’s side clinched a fifth straight appearance with a convincing 3-0 win over Peru.

    Ecuador
    Ecuador confirmed qualification after a 0-0 draw with Peru, marking their fifth World Cup appearance this century.

    Paraguay
    Paraguay return to the tournament for the first time since 2010 after a goalless draw with Ecuador.

    Colombia
    After missing out in 2022, Colombia are back with James Rodríguez inspiring a 3-0 win over Bolivia to secure qualification.

    Oceania (OFC)

    New Zealand
    The All Whites defeated New Caledonia 3-0 in the OFC final to reach their third World Cup, having last appeared in 2010.

    Europe (UEFA)

    England
    England comfortably qualified for an eighth consecutive World Cup after a 5-0 win over Latvia. It will be their first tournament on U.S. soil since missing USA 1994.

    Concacaf:

    None yet

  • Lookman targets UCL spot as Atalanta set  for Slavia Praha

    Lookman targets UCL spot as Atalanta set  for Slavia Praha

    • By Olamilekan Israel with Agency Reports

    Following their  spirited performance  in Sunday’s  goalless draw with Lazio in the Serie A, Atalanta steps up preparations for their UEFA Champions League Matchday 3 fixture against Slavia Praha, with African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman taking part in a closed door  training session at the Centro Bortolotti training complex in Zingonia.

    The Nerazzurri led by head coach Ivan Juric resumed work yesterday just two days before tomorrow’s showdown at the New balance Arena  to be officiated by the Spanish referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea .

    Yesterday’s  closed door training session focused on tactical shapes, recovery and their usual attacking transitions as Atalanta seek victory  yet again.  

    Read Also: Lookman’s earns first season’s start  as Lazio hold Atalanta

    Lookman, who turned 28 on October 20th , is expected to play a key role when Atalanta hosts the Czech champion  after  been in the thick of action on Sunday  where he nearly  came up with  the goals in  the Serie A clash  with Lazio.

    In fact, ‘Mola’ contributions to the plight of La Dea  despite summer’s transfer upheaval ,  was well noted  in the club’s fitting  birthday message on Sunday :“Ademola Lookman celebrates his birthday today!

     “Born in Wandsworth on 20 October 1997, the Nigerian winger is blowing out 28 candles on his cake today. Now in his fourth season wearing the Atalanta shirt, Ademola has made 122 appearances across all competitions, tallying 25 assists and 52 goals — including his unforgettable hat-trick in Dublin that sealed our historic 2023/24 UEFA Europa League triumph. Many Happy Returns, Ademola!”

    Meanwhile, UEFA  has  equally named  Spanish officials  Iker de Francisco and Alfredo Rodriguez  as assistants to Bengoetxea  for tomorrow’s tie between Atalanta and Slavia Praha with Jose Luis Munuera as the fourth official while Soto Grado and Carlos del Cerro Grande will handle VAR and AVAR duties.