The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • New Route  earmarked for 11th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon

    New Route  earmarked for 11th Access Bank Lagos City Marathon

    The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon (ABLCM) is set to enter an exciting new era as organisers unveil a brand-new race route for the landmark 11th edition, scheduled for Saturday, February 14.

    In a first for Africa’s biggest road race, the 42km marathon will now start at ORCA Mall on Ahmadu Bello Way, Victoria Island, sweep through sections of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road, and climax at the iconic Eko Atlantic City, showcasing Lagos as the beating heart of road racing in Africa.

    The strategic route change signals the dawn of a new decade for the marathon, prioritising a smoother athlete experience, modern infrastructure, and a refreshed race story that puts Lagos firmly on the world stage as a fast-rising global city.

    After ten editions on a familiar course that has become woven into Nigeria’s sporting culture, organisers say the refreshed route honours the marathon’s rich legacy while injecting fresh energy, curiosity, and spectacle for runners, fans, and international audiences alike. The inclusion of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road also offers a stunning showcase of one of Nigeria’s most ambitious infrastructure projects through a World Athletics Gold Label race watched across the globe.

    “The 11th  edition is not just another race; it represents evolution,” said Mrs Yetunde Olopade, the MD/CEO of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, owners of ABLCM. “The new route allows us to reimagine the marathon experience while staying true to our values of excellence, safety, and world-class delivery.”

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    A World Athletics Gold Label event, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon continues to draw elite athletes from around the world, alongside thousands of recreational runners, while commanding extensive local and international media attention.

    Beyond competition, the race remains a powerful platform for sports tourism, urban storytelling, youth engagement, and the promotion of healthy lifestyles.

    While the headline-grabbing 42km route has been refreshed for the 11th  edition, the 10km race will retain its familiar course, ensuring continuity for participants in that category.

    Additional information, including route maps, athlete updates, and race-day logistics, will be released via official Access Bank Lagos City Marathon channels.

  • NWFL adjusts calendar after player availability dispute

    NWFL adjusts calendar after player availability dispute

    The Nigeria Women’s Football League has stopped  the 2025/26 season in a move aimed at preserving fairness and sporting integrity across the competition.

    Following the completion of Matchday 7 on Wednesday, the NWFL confirmed that league action will resume on February 18, after reviewing concerns raised over players’ availability due to national team commitments. The situation, which affected one club significantly, prompted intervention at federation level.

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    NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi explained that the decision was taken to ensure no team is unfairly disadvantaged as the season progresses. The adjustment means Matchday 8 will now usher in the league’s return, while the planned mid-season break has been shortened to one week to keep the calendar on track.

  • Calabar gears up for NUGA as UNICAL seals hosting mandate

    Calabar gears up for NUGA as UNICAL seals hosting mandate

    The University of Calabar has begun laying the foundation for what it hopes will be a landmark edition of the Nigeria University Games Association competition in 2026.

    After formally receiving the NUGA hosting flag and signing the Memorandum of Agreement, the institution reaffirmed its commitment to delivering well-organised and memorable Games.

    Vice Chancellor Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong highlighted Calabar’s reputation for peace and hospitality as key assets for the event.

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    With preparations already underway for the August 2026 Games, UNICAL aims to combine sporting excellence with cultural celebration, ensuring athletes and officials enjoy a rewarding experience.

    The university’s leadership described the hosting rights as both an honour and a responsibility to set new standards for university sports in Nigeria.

  • Rovers reset season with Abdullahi Tyabo’s appointment

    Rovers reset season with Abdullahi Tyabo’s appointment

    Calabar Rovers FC have moved swiftly to address their struggles in the Nigeria National League by appointing seasoned tactician Abdullahi Umar Tyabo as Technical Adviser.

    The unveiling at the U.J. Esuene Stadium on Wednesday signalled a clear intent by the club’s leadership to halt a poor run of form and re-establish competitiveness.

    Cross River State Sports Commission Chairman Lawrence Etta expressed confidence that Tyabo’s experience would bring stability and direction.

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    With full technical authority handed to him, Tyabo is tasked with rebuilding the squad, improving results and restoring the identity that once defined Rovers FC.

    His appointment follows the disbandment of the previous technical crew after a string of disappointing performances which got to its crescendo after they were beaten 2-0 at home by Akwa United in the last game of the first stanza.

    The former Akwa United and Gombe United coach has already pledged commitment to the challenge, as Rovers look to mount a stronger push in the second half of the season with a tough away tie against Akwa United on February 14th .

  • ANFASSC sets sights on WAFCON in Morocco after successful outing  at AFCON 2025

    ANFASSC sets sights on WAFCON in Morocco after successful outing  at AFCON 2025

    The Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC) has returned to Nigeria following a successful and impactful outing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Super Eagles secured a bronze medal finish and once again reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong presence on the continental football stage.

    Throughout the tournament, ANFASSC played an active, organised, and disciplined role in supporting the Super Eagles, maintaining a visible and coordinated presence that reflected national pride, unity, and purpose. From the group stages through to the third-place playoff, the club’s structured chants, cultural expressions, and responsible conduct contributed to a positive matchday atmosphere and effective fan representation for Nigeria.

    The AFCON 2025 campaign stands as a proud moment for the Nigerian supporters’ community and a collective effort that merits recognition. ANFASSC believes that the consistency, professionalism, and national visibility demonstrated throughout the tournament underscore the importance of organised supporters in modern football and the need to continually encourage and strengthen such structures.

    ANFASSC acknowledges the cooperation and engagement of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and relevant sports authorities, whose coordination and support contributed to smooth operations, improved structure, and constructive engagement during the tournament.

    The working relationships built throughout AFCON 2025 remain valuable as Nigeria prepares for future international engagements.

    Special recognition is accorded to the President of ANFASSC, Prince Abayomi Ogunjimi, whose leadership and personal commitment stood out throughout the competition. His constant presence in and around the stadium, combined with his colourful and culturally expressive attire, projected Nigeria’s identity with pride and dignity. His representation reflected a legacy-driven approach to supporter leadership and showcased Nigeria positively on the continental stage, deserving national acknowledgment and encouragement.

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    ANFASSC also expresses appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, Ahmad Gambo Saleh, Esq., Mr.  Yemi Idowu, the National Sports Commission, Dotnet Hub Foundation and other partners and supporters, among many others, for their support, goodwill  and belief in structured sports development and national representation.

    As attention turns to future competitions, ANFASSC notes that the conclusion of the last WAFCON tournament further highlights the urgent need for increased supporter mobilisation. Recent experiences, particularly the AFCON final, clearly demonstrated to the global football community the critical impact of supporters in large numbers in driving team morale, influencing matchday atmosphere, and sustaining performance under pressure. In this regard, ANFASSC advocates for a deliberate expansion of Nigeria’s organised supporters’ presence, targeting a mobilisation strength of 400 to 500 supporters for future major tournaments.

    The club notes that organised supporters in other African nations, such as the Lumumba supporters of Uganda, have received national recognition for similar contributions, reinforcing the value of supporters as cultural ambassadors and morale drivers for national teams.

    In line with this vision, preparations are already being considered ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, with ANFASSC reaffirming its commitment to structured planning, early mobilisation, and stakeholder engagement to ensure strong, visible, and disciplined support for Nigeria’s women’s national team.

    The AFCON 2025 experience provides a solid foundation for improved planning, collaboration, and impact as ANFASSC continues its mission to support Nigerian teams with unity, discipline, and purpose, while contributing meaningfully to the growth, organisation, and global image of Nigerian sports.

  • Embattled Senegal’s coach defends  AFCON Final walk-off

    Embattled Senegal’s coach defends  AFCON Final walk-off

    Senegal coach Pape Bouna Thiaw said his decision to order a walk-off by his players in Sunday’s combustible Africa Cup of Nations final was driven by emotion and a feeling of injustice.

    In an Instagram post, Thiaw attempted to explain his actions, which have been widely condemned and for which he faces a possible sanction.

    Senegal staged a lengthy protest after a penalty was awarded in the dying stages of Sunday’s game to hosts Morocco after a VAR review, walking off the pitch before returning to continue.

    Morocco squandered the penalty, taking the match to extra time where Senegal scored to win 1-0 and claim a second Cup of Nations title in the last three editions.

    “We experienced an exceptional tournament with magnificent organisation, which unfortunately ended in tragedy,” wrote the Senegalese coach.

    “It was never my intention to go against the principles of the game that I love so much.”

    “I simply tried to protect my players from injustice. What some will see as a violation of the rules is nothing more than an emotional reaction to the bias of the situation,” he continued.

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    “After discussions, we decided to resume the match and go for the trophy for you (Senegalese supporters). I apologise if I offended anyone, but football lovers will understand that emotion is an integral part of this sport.”

    Senegal has been celebrating the win since the team arrived back in Dakar on Monday, with the 44-year-old Thiaw, who is a former international, paying tribute to his squad, who were all rewarded with bonuses of more than $130,000 as well as plots of coastal land for their efforts.

    “My guys, these 28 warriors who gave sweat, blood, and soul for their nation,” the coach added. “It’s a pleasure to lead you because beyond being legends, you are exceptional people!”

    A decision on possible sanctions for Senegal from the Confederation of African Football’s disciplinary committee is expected in the coming days.

  • Hakimi predicts better future for Morocco after AFCON Setback

    Hakimi predicts better future for Morocco after AFCON Setback

    Morocco defender Achraf Hakimi has insisted the national team will continue to move forward with its head held high despite losing the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on home soil.

    In the final played at Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat on Sunday, the Atlas Lions were kept waiting to lay their hands on the coveted title. It was Senegal, who were crowned champions of Africa for the second time in their history after edging out the Atlas Lions 1-0.

    The final of the 35th  edition of the AFCON went to the penalties after the two nations drew 0-0 in regular and extra time. The decisive moment arrived just three minutes into extra time when Pape Gueye unleashed a stunning left-footed strike from the edge of the area.

    Gueye’s effort was very strong, denying standout goalkeeper Yassine Bounou a chance to make a save. Morocco had come close to settling the contest at the end of regulation time.

    Awarded a late penalty following a VAR review, the hosts were denied when Edouard Mendy stopped playmaker Brahim Diaz’s Panenka attempt forcing the final beyond the 90 minutes.

    Substitute Pape Cherif Ndiaye almost doubled the Lion of Teranga’s lead in the closing stages but Bounou made a superb save. Ndiaye’s effort to score from a rebound was also stopped by the keeper.

    Taking to his social media pages, Hakimi, who captained the side that qualified for the final after defeating Nigeria 4-2 on penalties, insisted by losing in the final, it was not the end of the national team adding the future was looking promising.

    “After a very difficult few days, trying to absorb everything that has been going on, I needed to express myself from the heart,” wrote Hakimi, who plays for Paris Saint-Germain.

    “It’s 35 days of living together, constant effort, discipline and unity. A group that has shown the world that Morocco is not content to compete: Morocco inspires.

    “Today, this Moroccan team has become a strong, respected and admired team, like a country that moves forward with confidence and shows the world that it is one of the great nations of football.

    “Every training session, every game, and every shared moment has embodied values of greatness: respect, self-giving, humility, and immense pride in representing a nation. We have carried Morocco’s name with honour and brought hope to millions of people, at home and across our borders.”

    The right-back, who was named the 2025 African Player of the Year, continued: “The road doesn’t stop here. What we have experienced is a solid foundation for the future.

    “With this mind-set, union and ambition, there’s no limit to what this selection can achieve. The future is built by what we plant today. The future looks promising. Morocco will continue to move forward with its head held high.”

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    Hakimi hailed the support the national team had received from the Moroccan Majesty, referred primarily to King Mohammed VI, and his immense work done to make the 2025 AFCON edition a success.

    “I would like to first thank His Majesty, for the immense work done to make this Africa Cup of Nations, undoubtedly, the best in history, organized in our country,” added Hakimi.

    “Thank you for your vision, support and constant love for football and Morocco. Thanks also to our President Lekjaa Fouzi, for his total commitment to this selection and for believing in us every step of the way.”

    In his message to the fans, he said: “And how not to thank the Moroccan people. Thank you for being there for every game, every minute, every emotion. You’ve been our twelfth man, our strength when legs were heavy and hearts were aching.

    “We felt your support in Morocco and every corner of the world.”

    Hakimi had a message to coach Walid Regragui. He said: “I want to thank Walid (Regragui) and all his staff, but especially my teammates. For the work, commitment and enormous sacrifice we have made together during this AFCON.”

    Morocco, who participated in the AFCON much later than other North African states, made their debut in 1972,and became the second North African side to win the AFCON in 1976.

  • Track star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone announces pregnancy

    Track star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone announces pregnancy

    McLaughlin-Levrone, the two-time Olympic 400 metres hurdles champion and the second fastest woman ever in the flat 400m, announced on Thursday that she is expecting a child.

    The 26-year-old American broke the news on social media with a series of photos with her husband Andre Levrone and the message: “I made a human with my favourite human.”

    The pictures also show the couple admiring scans of the baby.

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    McLaughlin-Levrone is track and field’s biggest woman star, having shown at the world championships in Tokyo last year that she can transfer her talents from the hurdles to the 400m flat with stunning success.

    In winning the title, she became the first woman since 1985 to break the 48-second barrier and nearly eclipsed a 41-year-old world record set by Marita Koch of the former East Germany.

    McLaughlin-Levrone won the Olympic 400m hurdles title at the 2020 Tokyo and 2024 Paris Games.

    She will likely miss the biggest event of the 2026 calendar, the new World Athletics Ultimate Championships, being held in Budapest on September 11-13.

  • Casemiro to leave Man United  at season’s end

    Casemiro to leave Man United  at season’s end

    Casemiro will leave Manchester United at the end of the season following the expiry of his contract, according to the Premier League club.

    The Brazil international arrived from Real Madrid in 2022 for a fee of £70 million ($94 million) and has so far played 146 games for the club, scoring 21 goals.

    “A serial winner, we thank Case for his contributions in red so far and hope to finish his time at the club on a high together,” United said on X.

    Casemiro said in a club statement that he would “carry Manchester United with me throughout my entire life”.

    “From the first day that I walked out at this beautiful stadium, I felt the passion of Old Trafford and the love that I now share with our supporters for this special club,” he said.

    “It is not time to say goodbye – there are many more memories to create during the next four months.”

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    The midfielder, 33, forged his reputation at Real Madrid, where he won five Champions League titles.

    Casemiro scored the opening goal in United’s League Cup final win against Newcastle in 2023 as the club finished third in the league.

    But he did not feature in the club’s FA Cup final win against Manchester City the following year.

    Casemiro, one of the highest earners at old Trafford, said on his personal Instagram account that he would be “forever” a Red Devil.

     “Knowing when to say goodbye when you feel that you will be remembered and respected forever,” he posted.

    “Four months to give my all for this badge and for our goal. Eternal respect and affection for Manchester United and its wonderful fans.”

    United are fifth in the Premier League ahead of Sunday’s trip to leaders Arsenal.

  • Australian Open: Djokovic, Sinner plough on as Wawrinka makes history

    Australian Open: Djokovic, Sinner plough on as Wawrinka makes history

    Novak Djokovic and Jannik Sinner barrelled ominously into the Australian Open third round as 40-year-old Stan Wawrinka survived an epic to make Grand Slam history.

    An erratic Madison Keys did enough to keep her title defence on track and Iga Swiatek and Naomi Osaka also triumphed on a sunny but cooler Melbourne Park day five.

    The tournament fell briefly silent in the evening to remember the 15 people killed at Bondi Beach last month by gunmen who opened fire on a Jewish festival.

    Djokovic sent 141st -ranked qualifier Francesco Maestrelli packing in straight sets at Rod Laver Arena.

    The Serbian great is on his latest mission to win a record 25th Grand Slam title and dismissed the Italian 6-3, 6-2, 6-2.

    Djokovic faces 75th -ranked Botic van de Zandschulp of the Netherlands next.

    Djokovic is well known for his sometimes unusual preparations, which include hugging a Brazilian fig tree in Melbourne’s botanical gardens.

    “That is my oldest friend here in Melbourne,” said the 38-year-old former world number one, who has won 10 Australian Open titles, more than anyone in history.

    “He has been there to heal my wounds and give me company. We have a friendship going over 20 years.”

    Two-time reigning champion Sinner wasted no time in powering on with a demolition of home player James Duckworth, with the Italian second seed romping to a 6-1, 6-4, 6-2 victory in just one hour and 49 minutes.

    Sinner plays big-serving Eliot Spizzirri, the 85th -ranked American, next as he pursues a Melbourne Park hat-trick.

    Exhausted warhorse Wawrinka battled to a marathon five-set win in his Australian Open farewell.

    He was joined in the next round by another experienced campaigner in the 37-year-old Marin Cilic, who defeated Denis Shapovalov in straight sets.

    In Melbourne as a wildcard, Wawrinka pulled heroically through in four hours and 33 minutes against French qualifier Arthur Gea.

    He won 4-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-5, 7-6 (10⁄3) to become the first player aged 40 or over to reach the men’s third round at a Slam since Ken Rosewall at the Australian Open in 1978.

    The former Australian Open champion is playing his last season before retiring and faces the American ninth seed Taylor Fritz next.

    “Exhausted. I am trying to last as long as possible on my last Australian Open,” Wawrinka said.

    Asked what his plans were for the rest of the evening, Wawrinka replied: “I might pick up a beer, I deserve one.”

    Lorenzo Musetti, the fifth seed, beat fellow Italian and good friend Lorenzo Sonego 6-3, 6-3, 6-4.

    American eighth seed Ben Shelton was a comfortable 6-3, 6-2, 6-2 victor over Australia’s Dane Sweeny.

    Women’s champion Keys blew hot and cold before getting over the line 6-1, 7-5 against fellow American Ashlyn Krueger.

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    Keys, who upset Aryna Sabalenka in last year’s final, admitted after her laboured first-round win that she was a bundle of nerves and “too timid”.

    The 29-year-old threw off the shackles in the first set against the 92nd-ranked Krueger, taking it in just 23 minutes before having to rally from 2-5 in the second.

    She meets the experienced Karolina Pliskova of the Czech Republic next.

    In another all-United States clash, sixth seed Jessica Pegula made light work of her doubles partner McCartney Kessler in a rapid 6-0, 6-2 win.

    Another ruthless winner was fourth-seeded American Amanda Anisimova – 6-1, 6-4 against the Czech Katerina Siniakova.

    Second seed Swiatek, who has won six major titles but never been successful in Melbourne, was in cruise control against Marie Bouzkova of the Czech Republic, 6-2, 6-3.

    Fifth seed Elena Rybakina advanced but 10th  seed Belinda Benic was stunned by qualifier Nikola Bartunkova in three sets.

    Two-time former champion Naomi Osaka, who made a grand entrance in the first round in a jellyfish-inspired outfit, was error-strewn in beating Romania’s Sorana Cirstea, 6-3, 4-6, 6-2.

    The match ended in acrimony with some angry words from Cirstea at the net.

    “She’s a great player. I think this was her last Australian Open. So sorry she was mad about it,” said Osaka.