The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Ex-Barcelona Alba set for retirement

    Ex-Barcelona Alba set for retirement

    Spain and Barcelona defender Jordi Alba will retire from football at the end of the Major League Soccer (MLS) season, the Inter Miami player  has said.

    Alba began his youth career at Barcelona, who released him for being too small, but was re-signed in 2012 from Valencia for 14 million euros ($16.34 million) and went on to spend 11 seasons at the Catalan club.

    He joined Inter Miami in 2023, linking up with former teammates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez, while another former Barca colleague, Javier Mascherano, is the current head coach.

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    “The time has come to close a truly meaningful chapter in my life,” Alba said in a video posted on Instagram.

    “I’ve decided to bring my professional football career to an end at the conclusion to this season. I do so with complete conviction, with peace, and with happiness.

    The 36-year-old retired from international football in 2023 after making 93 appearances for Spain and was part of the Euro 2012 winning team where he scored in the 4-0 victory over Italy in the final.

    Alba won six LaLiga titles at Barcelona, and the Champions League along with the Club World Cup and five Copa del Rey. In the U.S. he won the Leagues Cup and Supporters’ Shield, and will bow out in November after the MLS playoffs.

  • Arsenal mull move to Wembley

    Arsenal mull move to Wembley

    Arsenal have held internal discussions about expanding the capacity of Emirates Stadium.

    The talks are still at an early stage with no favoured plan on how to move forward decided yet, but the possibility of home matches being played at Wembley Stadium if work was to take place has been discussed.

    The Gunners played Champions League matches at the old Wembley Stadium in both the 1998-99 and 1999-2000 seasons.

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    Rivals Tottenham played Champions League matches at the current Wembley in 2016-17, before playing all of their ‘home’ fixtures at Wembley in 2017-18 and most of 2018-19 while their new stadium was completed.

    Next year will mark 20 years since the Gunners moved to the Emirates from Highbury.

    It is understood talks have involved the possibility of changing the seating plan in order to add thousands of seats as the Gunners look to keep pace with the largest stadiums in the country.

    With a capacity of 60,704, Arsenal have the fifth-largest stadium among English football clubs.

    Manchester United’s Old Trafford is the biggest ground with a capacity of 74,879, while Tottenham’s home is second (62,850), West Ham (62,500) third and Liverpool (61,276) fourth.

  • Top 10 most valuable football clubs in the world- 2025 ranking

    Top 10 most valuable football clubs in the world- 2025 ranking

    Football has long evolved beyond the pitch — it is now one of the most profitable industries in global sports. The world’s top clubs no longer compete solely for trophies but also for brand value, commercial deals, and global influence. These teams have built empires that extend far beyond the stadium, powered by strategic marketing, loyal fanbases, and consistent financial performance.

    According to the 2025 Forbes list of the world’s most valuable football clubs, Spanish and English sides continue to dominate the global football landscape. The rankings are based on club valuations, annual revenues, and overall brand strength. Below is the definitive list of the top ten most valuable football clubs in the world, along with what sets them apart financially and competitively.

    1. Real Madrid – $6.75 Billion

    Revenue: $1.13 billion

    Real Madrid remain the most valuable football club in the world, leading the list for the fourth consecutive year and ninth time in twelve years. The Spanish giants continue to benefit from a powerful global brand, strong commercial partnerships, and consistent on-field success.

    2. Manchester United – $6.6 Billion

    Revenue: $834 million

    Manchester United maintain their place near the top through unmatched global recognition and commercial strength. Despite inconsistent performances in recent seasons, their fan loyalty and sponsorship network keep them financially dominant.

    3. Barcelona – $5.65 Billion

    Revenue: $821 million

    Barcelona’s valuation remains strong thanks to their enduring brand appeal and rich footballing heritage. Their large fanbase, global merchandise sales, and media rights deals ensure their continued financial relevance.

    4. Liverpool – $5.4 Billion

    Revenue: $773 million

    Liverpool’s steady growth under Jürgen Klopp has strengthened both their sporting and financial performance. Consistent appearances in major competitions and strategic investments in infrastructure support their high valuation.

    5. Manchester City – $5.3 Billion

    Revenue: $901 million

    Backed by Abu Dhabi United Group, Manchester City combine financial strength with sporting dominance. Their modern football model — built on success, strategy, and sustainability — cements their place among the elite.

    6. Bayern Munich – $5.1 Billion

    Revenue: $827 million

    Bayern Munich remain a benchmark for financial discipline and consistent success. The club’s global reach, fan engagement, and domestic dominance contribute to its strong market value.

    7. Paris Saint-Germain – $4.6 Billion

    Revenue: $870 million

    PSG continue to rank among the top through a combination of global marketing, high-profile players, and major commercial partnerships. The club’s financial backing and strategic expansion have redefined French football’s international image.

    8. Arsenal – $3.4 Billion

    Revenue: $771 million

    Arsenal’s value reflects their solid financial structure, loyal global following, and renewed competitiveness in recent seasons. With the Emirates Stadium and a young, exciting squad, the club is on a path of sustained growth.

    9. Tottenham Hotspur – $3.3 Billion

    Revenue: $666 million

    Tottenham’s valuation benefits from their modern stadium and commercial activities. While major trophies have been elusive, their business operations remain among the most advanced in Europe.

    10. Chelsea – $3.25 Billion

    Revenue: $591 million

    Following a period of ownership transition, Chelsea remain within the top ten due to their established global brand and marketing strength. The club’s focus on rebuilding both on and off the pitch continues to sustain its value.

  • Visa hitch  disrupts Super Eagles preps for Lesotho, Benin

    Visa hitch  disrupts Super Eagles preps for Lesotho, Benin

    • Chelle, coach crew arrive
    • Training may be delayed   

    Super Eagles’ preparations  for their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin has been hindered due to  visa issue.

    Seven newly invited players are  reportedly stranded without entry visas to South Africa, where Coach Eric Sekou Chelle and some of his technical staff are already present for this crucial assignment.

    The team’s training camp at The Ranch Hotel in Polokwane was scheduled to commence today, following its opening yesterday, but the absence of these players means full squad training will likely be delayed until the day before the match due to this organizational hiccup.

    “There’s a major organisational hiccup as it concerns entry visas to South Africa – at least seven players cannot be in that country before Wednesday because of this,” a top source reportedly told SCORENigeria. “It means there may not be full squad training until possibly a day to the match. This is catastrophic!”

    According to the  news outlet,  the majority of players from last month’s qualifiers were granted three-month multiple entry visas, the newly invited players and several recalled ones are experiencing complications.

    But our correspondent  gathered last night  that only three players might be significantly affected. However, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is reportedly addressing the situation to ensure the affected players can join the squad in time.

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    Among the notable names in the 23-man squad announced by Chelle are Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, who returns after injury, as well as prominent players like Alex Iwobi and William Troost-Ekong. Additionally, Sevilla star Akor Adams is set to make his senior debut for the national team.

    Currently, Nigeria occupies the third position in Group C, with 11 points, trailing behind leaders Benin Republic and South Africa. The Super Eagles are hopeful of securing an automatic qualification spot, particularly following FIFA’s recent penalties against South Africa for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho.

    SUPER EAGLES’ SQUAD FOR LESOTHO, BENIN:

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

    Defenders: William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia), Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England), Semi Ajayi (Hull City, England), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England), Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece), Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany), Benjamin Fredrick (Dender, Belgium)

    Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England), Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England), Alhassan Yusuf (New England Revolution, USA), Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey)

    Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy), Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham, England), Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey), Moses Simon (Paris FC, France), C Tolu Arokodare (Wolves, England), Terem Moffi (OGC Nice, France), Akor Adams (Sevilla, Spain), Olakunle Olusegun (Pari Nizhny Novgorod, Russia)

  • FIFA U20 WC: Zubairu issues battle cry for stiff test against  Argentina  

    FIFA U20 WC: Zubairu issues battle cry for stiff test against  Argentina  

    • By Daniel Oyekan  with Agency Reports

    Coach Aliyu Zubairu  has commended Flying Eagles  for their resilience and tactical discipline following their dramatic comeback 1-1  draw  against Colombia to book their  Round of 16 ticket at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Chile.

    The Flying Eagles displayed character after trailing by a goal in the 51st minute  when Kener Gonzalez swept the ball in off an assist by Neyser Villareal but  bounced  four minutes left  with a vital equaliser  from the spot by captain Daniel Bameyi .

     “We knew Colombia were a physically fit side, but we trusted our plan,” Zubairu said in his post-match analysis. “In the second half, we denied them passing opportunities, which gave us an edge and led to the penalty we converted. The boys showed great spirit, fought hard, and deserved the result.”

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    Zubairu credited the team’s collective mind set and commitment as their biggest weapon heading into the knockout stages with  a date against six-time  youth champions Argentina  in Santiago on Tuesday with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 p.m. local time(12:30am Nigerian time on Wednesday)  

    “We’re not afraid of Argentina. It won’t be easy, but this team has heart, hunger, and belief. We’ll give everything to make Nigeria proud,” he said confidently.

    Meanwhile, AS Trencin striker Suleiman Sanni, who has been one of Nigeria’s standout performers in the group stage, will miss the Argentina clash due to yellow-card accumulation. Despite the setback, Sanni voiced full faith in his teammates’ ability to rise to the challenge.

     “Of course, I’m sad I won’t play the next match, but I trust my brothers. We’ve come too far to stop now,” Sanni said. “These boys have fire in them — we fight for each other, and that’s what makes us strong.”

    Reflecting on their journey so far, Sanni praised his coach and teammates for their determination and togetherness.

     “We have no fear. We respect every opponent, but we play with confidence. The coach told us to stay calm and believe in our plan — and it worked perfectly,” he added.

    Even from the sidelines, Sanni vowed to continue being a source of motivation.

    “I’ll cheer louder than anyone. I believe in this team. We’re ready for Argentina, and we’ll give everything to keep our dream alive,” he said passionately.

    With unity, belief, and momentum on their side, Nigeria’s Flying Eagles march into their next challenge — fully aware that discipline and teamwork could be the keys to another famous victory.

    ALL THE SECOND ROUND FIXTURES

    07-10-2025: Chile vs Mexico – Valparaiso ; Ukraine vs Spain – Valparaiso

    08-10-2025: Argentina vs Nigeria – Santiago ;  Colombia vs South Africa – Talca; Paraguay vs Norway – Talca; Japan vs France – Santiago

    09-10-2025: USA vs Italy – Rancagua ; Morocco vs South Korea – Rancagua

  • Pinnick lauds Gusau, Mustapha, Falode on key FIFA appointments

    Pinnick lauds Gusau, Mustapha, Falode on key FIFA appointments

    ​Amaju Melvin Pinnick, the Deputy Chair of the  FIFA Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee, has congratulated  the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Musa Gusau; legal luminary Abdulhakeem Mustapha (SAN) and seasoned football executive Ayishat ‘Aisha’ Falode on their appointments to key FIFA Standing Committees.

    ​In a landmark development that solidifies Nigeria’s influence in global football governance, these appointments place Nigerian expertise at the heart of FIFA’s decision-making structure: Gusau joins the FIFA Men’s Club Competitions Committee. Mustapha has been appointed to the Anti-Racism and Anti-Discrimination Committee while Falode takes a seat on the Media & Communications Committee.

    ​​As the Deputy Chair of the committee that oversees the organization and management of all FIFA Men’s National Team Competitions, Pinnick commended the trio for their recognition, describing it as “a reflection of Nigeria’s strategic relevance and intellectual capital within the international football community.”

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    ​He expressed particular admiration for Aisha Falode, noting her trailblazing achievements in sports journalism, women’s football administration and media leadership.

    ​“I am deeply honoured by my continued service within FIFA and humbled to work alongside Robert Harrison, Chair of the Men’s National Teams Competitions Committee,” Pinnick said.​“I wholeheartedly congratulate President Gusau, Abdulhakeem Mustapha, SAN, and Aisha Falode on their well-deserved appointments. Together, we represent a new era of professionalism, integrity, and innovation for Nigerian football on the world stage.”

    ​Pinnick further praised each appointee for their individual contributions to the game:​“To President Gusau, your steady and unifying leadership continues to uplift Nigerian football.

    ​“Abdulhakeem Mustapha, SAN, your integrity and intellect will strengthen FIFA’s stand against discrimination and injustice in the sport.

    ​“Aisha Falode, your evolution from journalist to global football executive inspires countless women across Africa. I am proud to serve alongside you all as we advance Nigeria’s legacy within FIFA,” he noted.

    ​Ayishat “Aisha” Falode’s appointment is particularly historic, as she continues to break barriers for women in African football administration. ​The former Chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) holds the distinction of being the first female member of CAF’s Media and Communications Committee. This trailblazing record, coupled with her tireless championing of visibility, professionalism, and equity in the sport, cements her place among Africa’s foremost voices in football governance. Her inclusion on FIFA’s Media and Communications Committee is no doubt a momentous step.

  • Super Eagles, Falcons to earn more as CAF declares  unprecedented profit

    Super Eagles, Falcons to earn more as CAF declares  unprecedented profit

    • By Joshua Osinowo with Agency  Reports

    After years of financial turbulence, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has finally returned to profit, a milestone that could see the Super Eagles and Super Falcons smile to the bank in upcoming tournaments.

    At its 47th  Ordinary General Assembly held in Kinshasa, DR Congo, CAF announced a net profit of USD 9.48 million for the 2023 – 2024 financial year, its first positive balance sheet in several years. The organisation’s total revenue jumped to USD 166.42 million, driven by a surge in sponsorship deals, stricter financial controls, and growing global attention on African football.

    CAF President, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, described the development as a “turning point for African football’s financial independence and sustainability.”

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    The profit, CAF explained, will be reinvested in competitions, infrastructure, and member associations a move expected to boost prize earnings for national teams and clubs across the continent.

    Among the changes: The CAF Champions League winners’ prize climbed by 60% to USD 4 million; the WAFCON champions’ reward doubled to USD 1 million; the AFCON 2023 winners pocketed USD 7 million, a 40% increase from the previous edition.

    For Nigeria, that means the Super Eagles and Super Falcons stand to gain significantly in future tournaments as CAF strengthens its financial footing.

    With 16 commercial partners now on board, CAF says the era of deficit spending is over. The organisation projects more funds for grassroots development, women’s football, and club competitions, marking what many insiders are calling “a new dawn for African football.”

  • Hoops and Read rule  4th  CDS Unity Basketball Championship

    Hoops and Read rule  4th  CDS Unity Basketball Championship

    The 4th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Unity Basketball Championship ended on Sunday with Hoops and Read defeating Police Baton 55–52 to claim the title.

    Twelve elite teams from the South-West states competed fiercely for honours in the week-long championship.

    In the final, Hoops and Read displayed composure and organisation, dictating the pace of the match from start to finish at the indoor sports hall.

    Their superior ball control and teamwork kept them ahead, as Police Baton committed multiple turnovers and costly errors in the second and third quarters.

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    The first quarter ended 12–12, but Police Baton lost focus in the second, allowing Hoops and Read to take control with 17–8 and 14–9 quarter wins.

    In spite of a late rally by Police Baton, led by veteran Kayode Balogun, their 13–11 final-quarter surge was not enough to overturn the deficit.

    Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, commended the players for their display of “talent, resilience, and teamwork,” describing the tournament as a reflection of Nigeria’s unity and determination.

     “The past few days have showcased our strength and perseverance as a people,” General Musa said. “This event, held in commemoration of our Independence Day, reaffirms our collective spirit and demonstrates how sports can foster national security and unity through a non-kinetic approach.”

    Head Coach of Hoops and Read, Dossou Mensah, said it was a tough game that required resilience and tactical discipline to secure victory.

     “We knew it wouldn’t be an easy match. Police Baton have great experience, but our turnaround in the second quarter gave us confidence,” he said.

    Police Baton’s Head Coach, Jonathan Odia, however, criticized the officiating, voicing his disappointment over what he called inconsistent refereeing.

    Oluyole Warriors clinched third place after defeating Delta Force of Warri 68–55 in an entertaining bronze-medal contest.

    Hoops and Read received ₦2 million as champions, while Police Baton and Oluyole Warriors earned ₦1.5 million and ₦1 million respectively.

  • Edo named Bazuaye interim coach for Insurance

    Edo named Bazuaye interim coach for Insurance

    The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has approved the suspension of Bendel Insurance head coach, Greg Ikhenoba, with effect from yesterday.

    According to a statement signed by the Commission’s Director of Media and Communications, Kehinde Osagiede, the decision followed the club’s poor run of form in the ongoing Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, culminating in their 1–0 defeat to Nasarawa United at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, on Saturday.

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    In a swift move to stabilize the technical direction of the team, Hon. Enabulele directed Baldwin Bazuaye, to assume duties as the head of the technical crew of Bendel Insurance until further notice.

    The Commission emphasized its commitment to ensuring improved performance and restoring the club’s competitive edge in the NPFL.

  • Record entries for 2025 Dolphin Swimming League

    Record entries for 2025 Dolphin Swimming League

    The Dolphin Swimming League has recorded a surge in participation with over 20 schools and clubs confirming their entry for Season 7 of the prestigious inter-school swimming tournament.

    The new season kicks off with Grange School hosting the opening leg on Saturday, October 11.

    Widely regarded as a grooming ground for Nigeria’s top swimming talents, the league continues to produce athletes who represent the country at continental and international competitions. Many of its alumni also made a strong impact at the recently concluded National Youth Games in Delta State.

    Organised by Dynaspro Sports Promotion in collaboration with Advanta Interactive, the tournament is officially sanctioned by the Nigeria Aquatic Federation, Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), and the Lagos State Swimming Association.

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    For season 7, confirmed teams for the elementary category include Grange School, Riverbank School, Lagos Preparatory Secondary School (LPSS), Children International School (CIS), Greensprings School Lagos, Boken Aquatics Club, Meadow Hall, Temple School, C – Tribe Club, Corona Schools, St Saviour’s School Ikoyi, Foreshore School Ikoyi, Makosail Swimming Academy and Damswimm Academy.

    The participating teams in the secondary division are Grange School, Riverbank School, Lagoon School, Whitesands School, James Hope School, Boken Aquatics Club,  CIS, LPSS, British International School, Corona Schools, Atlantic Hall, C – Tribe Club, Meadow Hall, Greensprings School Lagos, Temple School, Makosail Swimming Academy and Damswimm Academy.

    According to Oluseyi Oyebode, CEO of Dynaspro Sports Promotion, the impressive turnout reflects the league’s reputation for transparency and excellence over the past six years.

     “We’re thrilled that schools and clubs are embracing the vision behind this tournament. Our goal is to produce Olympic champions. We know the talent is there—we need to nurture it and inspire these young athletes to aim high.”

    He explained that separating the elementary and secondary divisions was a strategic move to improve organisation and ensure swimmers compete fairly without being rushed due to multiple event schedules.

     “This structure allows us to manage the competition better and allows each swimmer to perform at their best.”

    With Sosa Fruit Drink now on board as the official sponsor, Oyebode expressed optimism about attracting more corporate partners and supporters to help expand the league nationally.

     “The involvement of Sosa Fruit Drink is a big step forward. We’re confident that more well-meaning individuals and organisations will join us in building a truly national platform for swimming development.”