The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Firm launches inter-school football competition in Ondo

    Firm launches inter-school football competition in Ondo

    An agribusiness company, Johnvents Foods Limited, has launched an inter-school football competition in Ondo State aimed at promoting grassroots sporting development and youth empowerment.

    The Managing Director of the company, Mr. Ademola Aramide-Atolagbe, disclosed this to reporters on Thursday in Akure, the state capital.

    Aramide-Atolagbe said the tournament, tagged “Johnvents Apex League,” was designed to help young people in schools discover their potential, build teamwork, and develop leadership skills through sports.

    “The six-month tournament will bring together 16 secondary schools from across Ondo State, engaging more than 8,000 students through mentorship and sports-based learning,” he said.

    He explained that the initiative aligns with the company’s vision of using sports as a platform for youth empowerment, education, and community development—an extension of its brand philosophy, “Creating Unforgettable Food Moments.”

    According to him, the mission of Johnvents has always been to nourish lives and invest in the future of the communities it serves.

    “Sports provide a unique opportunity to do both—shaping the minds, discipline, and character of young people who will lead tomorrow. For us, Creating Unforgettable Food Moments goes beyond products; it’s about creating real impact that lasts,” Aramide-Atolagbe added.

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    As part of its commitment, Aramide-Atolagbe noted that Johnvents Foods will provide participating schools with sports kits, materials, and nutritional support to ensure that every stage of the competition benefits students both on and off the field.

    The Johnvents Apex League is powered by Johnvents 3-in-1 Chocolate, the company’s flagship beverage brand known for its promise of “Instant Goodness.”

    Earlier, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, who attended the launch, commended Johnvents Foods Limited for the initiative.

    He described the competition as a timely contribution to youth development and education in Ondo State.

    “Education goes beyond the classroom. What Johnvents Foods is doing connects learning, discipline, and passion in a way that develops well-rounded students. By investing in these young minds, Johnvents is helping to raise future leaders who can excel both academically and personally c the Commissioner said.

  • Super Eagles stars vow to pick  World Cup ticket

    Super Eagles stars vow to pick  World Cup ticket

    Ekong, Ndidi, Moffi, Bassey optimistic

    As  the Super Eagles prepare to take on  the Crocodiles of  Lesotho in  tomorrow’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, key members of the squad have expressed determination to secure victory and get their campaign back on track.

    The quartet of captain Wilfred Troost-Ekong , Wilfred Ndidi. Terem Moffi and Calvin Bassey, told NFFTv that   the Super  Eagles will  ride their  luck and grind the much-needed  wins  in their two  remaining matches to boost their chances nicking  the Mundial ticket at all cost.

    Midfielder Ndidi stressed the importance of the fixture, noting that the team is fully aware of the stakes.

     “We know where we are at the moment. These two games are very crucial. We shall first focus on Lesotho before the one with Benin Republic,” the Besiktas’ man said.

    Defender Bassey  who scored a vital equaliser for the Super Eagles in the 1-1 away draw to Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Match day 8,  emphasized the need for composure and unity as the team looks to bounce back from recent setbacks.

     “We have to remain calm and do what we know how to do best. This is not the first time we shall be in this tough moment,” the hard-working Fulham defender noted confidently.

    Read Also: Aiyegbeni, Oshaniwa berate NFF for blaming  Ekong, Dessers for Super Eagles’ woes 

    Speaking in the same vein, OGC Nice  crafty striker Moffi echoed similar optimism, assuring that the players remain focused on their responsibilities on the pitch.

    “We are confident about qualifying for the World Cup. We have to do our part. We shall do our part and hopefully results from other games are in our favour,” he stated.

    Concluding, William Troost-Ekong reaffirmed the squad’s fighting spirit, insisting that the Super Eagles are ready to give their all for qualification.

     “We are going to fight until we achieve our aim,” the experienced defender declared.

    Currently in Polokwane, South Africa, where they will face Lesotho tomorrow,  the Super Eagles  will  wrap up their  qualifiers at home in Uyo against Cheetahs of Benin .Both matches are expected to play a pivotal role in determining Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes.

  • 2026 FIFA WCQ: Red-hot Akor, Sanusi  swell Eagles as 20 train for Lesotho

    2026 FIFA WCQ: Red-hot Akor, Sanusi  swell Eagles as 20 train for Lesotho

    Head Coach Eric Sekou Chelle had  a total of 20 players for the Super Eagles’ second training session  yesterday in Polokwane, ahead of  tomorrow’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against the Crocodiles of Lesotho.

    A total of 18 players were in the team’s The Ranch Hotel as at Tuesday night  while Portugal-based defender Zaidu Sanusi and Spain-based forward Jerome Akor Adams  joined  the group  in time for yesterday’s second training. United States of America-based midfielder Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi is expected to land in South Africa today .

    Chelle has had to tinker the team following injuries to defender Bright Osayi-Samuel and forward Cyriel Dessers, bringing in Sanusi and Crystal Palace of England’s Christantus Uche. Injury to wing-back Felix Agu had cut the squad from 23 to 22.

    Russia-based former junior international Olakunle Olusegun is yet to be issued with an entry visa into South Africa, meaning Nigeria could probably prosecute the encounter with 21 players.

    Read Also: Ballon d’Or: NFF congratulates Nnadozie, Madugu

    The Matchday 9 encounter is billed for the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa on Friday, 10th October 2025 and will kick off at 6pm South African time (5pm Nigerian time).

    21 SUPER EAGLES TO BATTLE LESOTHO IN POLOKWANE

    Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa); Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania); Adeleye Adebayo (Volos FC, Greece)

    Defenders: William Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia); Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (Hull City, England); Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal); Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece); Benjamin Fredericks (Dender FC, Belgium)

    Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England); Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England); Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA); Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas FC, Turkey); Christantus Uche (Crystal Palace, England)

    Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta BC, Italy); Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham FC, England); Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey); Simon Moses (Paris FC, France); Tolu Arokodare (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England); Terem Moffi (OGC Nice, France); Jerome Akor Adams (Sevilla FC, Spain).

  • U17 WWC: Taribo West challenges Flamingos as Nigeria’s girls hit Morocco

    U17 WWC: Taribo West challenges Flamingos as Nigeria’s girls hit Morocco

    Former Super Eagles defender Taribo West has challenged  Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, to remain disciplined and focused as they begin their quest for glory at the 2025 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

    The ex-Inter Milan and AC Milan centre-back met the team at the airport yesterday, where he delivered a heartfelt message of encouragement.

     “You girls have great potential. Stay united, follow your coaches’ guidance, and play with one heart. If you do that, you can go far and even grow into the future Super Falcons,” West reportedly  told the players.

    He  urged the team to pay attention to details and execute their coaches’ instructions with precision, stressing that discipline and teamwork would define their success on the world stage.

    He expressed optimism about the team’s quality and predicted that with consistent development, many of the current players could graduate to the Super Falcons in the future.

    Read Also: NFF to review Chelle’s contract next month

    The Flamingos departed Abuja yesterday morning aboard a flight to Casablanca, arriving at Mohammed V International Airport after a smooth 4-hour, 20-minute journey. On arrival, they checked into Ibis Hotel, Casablanca, where they later held a light training session to shake off travel fatigue.

    While in Morocco, the team will play two friendly matches — against New Zealand and Paraguay — as part of their final build-up to the tournament.

    Drawn in Group D alongside Canada, France, and Samoa, the Flamingos will open their campaign on October 17.

    The Nigerian girls are in fine form, having scored 44 goals and conceded none in 10 preparatory matches — a record that has boosted confidence ahead of the global showpiece.

  • Argentina 4-0 Nigeria: Flying Eagles crash out of FIFA U-20 World Cup

    Argentina 4-0 Nigeria: Flying Eagles crash out of FIFA U-20 World Cup

    Six-time champions Argentina eliminated Nigeria from the ongoing FIFA U20 World Cup finals in Chile on Wednesday evening, winning their Round of 16 tie in Santiago 4-0 to avenge the Flying Eagles’ own triumph over them at the same stage when the Argies hosted the tournament two years ago.

    Alejo Sarco scored Argentina’s first as early as the second minute, before Maher Carrizo doubled the advantage from a free-kick in the 23rd  minute, disrupting Nigeria’s game-plan. Maher Carrizo’s goal came following a challenge by midfielder Nasiru Salihu at the edge of the box.

    An appeal for penalty award from Nigeria was waved off by the referee despite Ramirez’s clumsy challenge on Salihu in the vital area. Oseer Achihi was a constant threat from the left wing of play, as his crosses into the box forced the Argentines to defend stoutly, conceding throw-ins and corner-kicks to relieve them of the pressure.

    Read Also: Ballon d’Or: NFF congratulates Nnadozie, Madugu

    Daniel Daga’s stoppage-time close range effort on goal was denied by goalkeeper Santino Barbi’s superb save to keep the scoreline 2-0 at half time. Carrizo compounded matters for Nigeria with the third goal in the 53rd  minute, after the South Americans broke forward once more.

    Second half substitute, Matheus Silvetti beat the offside trap to bend his kick to the bottom right of Ebenezer Harcourt for Argentina’s fourth goal in the 66th  minute.

    Defeat meant elimination from this year’s championship for two-time silver medallists Nigeria while the Young Albiceleste will now take on Mexico in the quarter-finals.

  • SWAN petitions DSS over plot to hold illegal election in Lagos

    SWAN petitions DSS over plot to hold illegal election in Lagos

    By Daniel Oyekan

    The national leadership of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has petitioned the Department of State Services (DSS), accusing two suspended officials of its Lagos State’s  chapter of attempting to undermine lawful authority and intimidate members ahead of a planned “illegal election” in Lagos.

    In a petition dated October 7, 2025, and signed by SWAN National President, Mr. Isaiah Benjamin, and Secretary-General, Ambassador Ikenna Okonkwo, the association called on the DSS to intervene and stop the suspended officials, Ms. Olatutu Oladunni and Mr. Bello Omotunde, from conducting any election under the association’s name.

    According to the petition, both individuals who previously served as chairman and secretary of the Lagos chapter remain indefinitely suspended from all SWAN activities for gross misconduct, insubordination, and sabotage of the association’s constitutional order.

    The association alleged that the duo plan to stage an unauthorized election on Thursday, October 9, 2025, despite formal notifications to law enforcement agencies about their suspension.

    SWAN expressed alarm over reports that the suspended officials have been reaching out to security operatives in Lagos for backing, warning that such actions could lead to a breakdown of order within the state’s sporting media community.

     “It is deeply regrettable that despite prior notifications to security agencies, these individuals continue to parade themselves as officers of the association, issuing threats and attempting to mislead law enforcement into supporting their unlawful activities,” the petition stated.

    The association further reminded the DSS of a previous confrontation during the Lagos SWAN Congress held on September 17, 2025, where Ms. Oladunni allegedly mobilized over 11 police vehicles and operatives to disrupt a peaceful gathering of sports journalists.

    That incident, SWAN said, amounted to “an act of intimidation and gross abuse of privilege,” describing it as a brazen show of force that violated the spirit of civility and press freedom.

    Read Also: NFF to review Chelle’s contract next month

    In the petition, SWAN urged the DSS and the Nigeria Police Force to call the suspended individuals to order and ensure that law enforcement neutrality is maintained in the internal affairs of professional associations.

    The association demanded that security agencies: restrain the suspended officers from using state apparatus to intimidate members; instruct all DSS formations in Lagos to desist from providing any form of cover or endorsement for their planned activities; safeguard the peace and integrity of the sporting and journalistic community in Lagos.

    Reaffirming its commitment to due process, the association described itself as a law-abiding, non-political professional body recognized by the National Sports Commission and registered under Nigerian laws.

     “We urge the esteemed offices of the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of DSS to ensure that the rule of law and organizational integrity are not subverted by desperate individuals acting in bad faith,” the petition added.

    Copies of the petition were also sent to the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Director of DSS, Lagos State Command, SWAN South West Vice President, SWAN South West Secretary, Acting Chairman of SWAN Lagos, and the Chairman of the SWAN Electoral Committee (SWANECO).

  • Olofinjana unveiled as Super Win league Lottery Brand Ambassador

    Olofinjana unveiled as Super Win league Lottery Brand Ambassador

    Former Super Eagles  midfielder  Seyi George Olofinjana  was unveiled  in Lagos yesterday as the brand Ambassador  of SuperWinleague Lottery and the brand’s   football project.

    Speaking during the unveiling of the Chelsea ‘s  Africa Chief Scouting Manager at the MTN office  at Falomo,  the Chief Operating officer  of DayEmpire Sports Marketing Management Company  Ltd,  Yemisi  Ayodeji Daniel , said:  ” We are starting a big project today that creates opportunities  for footballers,   fans and stakeholders  to fulfil  their dreams. We are therefore excited to have former Super Eagles and Stoke City midfielder,   Seyi George Olofinjana, as our  brand Ambassador  for  the     SuperWinleague lottery  and other projects.

    “This partnership  with top Telecommunications company MTN and a renowned footballer underscores the importance  of the project. Their decision  to come on board  by partnering with Day Empire SMM is a  confirmation that the project is anchored on integrity, promise kept and protection of our core values  as an entity. At DayEmpire Sports SMM,  we  not only keep our promises,   we value our integrity  because we want to build an International  brand that will stand the test of time”

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    Olofinjana on his part,   said he was staking  his reputation by identifying  with the brand because he is convinced  that every   promises made will be fulfilled.

    SuperWinleague lottery and  SuperWinleague   is expected to offer footballers and fans  unique experience of winning  fantastic prices, trial with clubs in Europe and  also the opportunity  to watch the best top leagues in Europe.

    Winners will be rewarded  daily with cash, jerseys and  football boots  with the ultimate  price for trials in Europe  for the best player, while the fans will enjoy  all expense paid trip to watch top clubs in England.

  • Zenith Bank/ Delta Principals’ Cup semis set for Ozoro, Ughelli

    Zenith Bank/ Delta Principals’ Cup semis set for Ozoro, Ughelli

    The semifinals of the 2025 Zenith Bank/Delta Principals Cup football competition takes place at two centres today, October 9.

    On September 18, the annual competition kicked off in Asaba and now the final four teams have emerged out of over 1,000 secondary schools that started the competition from the preliminary stage.

    Warri South LG represented by Ogbe Ijoh Grammar School are through to the last four and they will face Justice, Peace and Success Secondary School representing Aniocha South LG area of Delta Sate. The match is slated for Notre Dame College, Ozoro.

    The second semifinals will see Otokutu Grammar School representing Ughelli South take on Urhobo College, Effurun, representing Uvwie LG in a match slated for Government College, Ughelli.

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    These four semi-finalists took part in the preliminaries to represent their respective Local Governments and also went ahead to emerge tops at the zonal qualifiers decided at various centres before the quarterfinals that took place only on Tuesday in four different centres across the state.

    CEO of Hideaplus, the organisers of the annual youth developmental football competition, Tony Pemu, told our correspondent that the 2025 event has been very exciting.

     “We have seen games from the zonal and quarterfinal stage looking like the final in terms of the skills displayed and the talents exhibited. In the semis we expect more responses from the players just as we expect a big final on October 16 in Asaba,” Pemu said.

    Meanwhile, a total of 64 players have been scouted so far with the potential of moving on to greener pastures to horn their trade in the round leather game.

    The players include Salah James, Divine Efenudi, Oghenevwere Johnson, Young Jeffrey, Ojobo Rejoice, Okiki Victor, Nwori Ifeanyi, Eze Destiny and Evans Faith to mention just a few.

    The winners of Tuesday’s semi-final matches will be through to lay in the final of this edition, the 8th  in the series, slated for the Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba.

  • Okoye set for Udinese  return after betting ban

    Okoye set for Udinese  return after betting ban

    By Joshua Osinowo

    ‎Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye, is set to return to action in the Italian Serie A next week after serving a suspension for his alleged involvement in a betting-related incident.

    ‎The Udinese Calcio shot-stopper was banned in late July after being found guilty of intentionally earning a yellow card during a league match against Lazio — an act reportedly linked to a betting scheme.

    ‎Following months on the sidelines, Okoye has now been cleared to re-join the squad. His teammate and fellow goalkeeper, Daniele Padelli, confirmed the news during “Udinese Tonight,” a weekly football show on TV12.

    ‎Padelli disclosed that the Nigerian international remained focused and in excellent shape throughout his suspension.

    Read Also: NFF confirms Super Eagles friendlies in US

    ‎“He’s been training hard, as if he was playing every week, maybe even more than before,” Padelli said. “He used the time to work on small details. Now that the suspension is over, it’s up to the coach to decide who starts.”

    ‎In a light-hearted comment, Padelli added:‎“The only sure thing is that I’ll drop further down the pecking order,” he joked. “Maduka has a strong personality, he doesn’t let pressure get to him.”

    ‎Okoye’s return comes as a timely boost for Udinese, who have struggled for consistency in goal since his absence. It also offers renewed hope for Nigeria’s Super Eagles ahead of the forthcoming  2025  Africa Cup of Nations  in Morocco.

  • Adegoke  affirms Shooting Stars’ commitment  towards successful  NPFL campaign

    Adegoke  affirms Shooting Stars’ commitment  towards successful  NPFL campaign

    By Joshua Osinowo

    ‎Striker Qamar Adegoke has assured the supporters of Shooting Stars Sports Club(3SC) of Ibadan that the team is  committed to sustaining their impressive start to the 2025 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.

    ‎The Oluyole Warriors have shown flashes of brilliance in the opening stages of the campaign, securing three wins, one draw, and suffering two defeats from their first seven matches. Their latest victory — a hard-fought win over Plateau United in Ibadan — lifted them to fifth place on the league table with 10 points, signaling their intent to challenge for a top position this season.

    ‎Speaking on a sports radio programme in Ibadan, Adegoke expressed confidence in the team’s ability to maintain momentum, highlighting the positive atmosphere in camp and the technical crew’s influence on the players’ performances.

    ‎“With the way our coaches handle us, there’s no way a player won’t give his best,” he said. “Everyone in the team understands what it means to wear the Shooting Stars jersey. We are playing not just for ourselves but for the fans and the city of Ibadan. I urge all Oluyole Warriors supporters to keep believing in us — we won’t disappoint them.”

    Read Also: Ballon d’Or: NFF congratulates Nnadozie, Madugu

    ‎Adegoke emphasized that unity and discipline have been key factors behind the team’s steady improvement this season. According to him, the blend of youthful energy and experienced players in the squad has created healthy competition, motivating everyone to raise their game.

    ‎“We push each other every day in training. There’s a strong bond among the players, and the coaches make sure no one gets complacent,” he added. “Our focus is on consistency  to get better in every game and bring joy to our fans.”

    ‎Shooting Stars will look to build on their recent success when they travel to Kano this weekend for a crucial matchday eight encounter against the high-flying Kano Pillars at the Sani Abacha Stadium.