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Category: Sports

UCL: Atletico held in Istanbul as top-eight hopes fade

Atletico Madrid’s push for a Champions League top-eight finish suffered a setback after they were held to a 1–1 draw by Galatasaray in Istanbul on Wednesday night, leaving their route to automatic qualification for the last 16 increasingly uncertain.

The visitors made a dream start when Giuliano Simeone struck in the fourth minute, giving Diego Simeone’s side early control and briefly lifting them into the provisional top eight. However, Atletico were unable to build on the advantage and were pegged back midway through the first half by an unfortunate Marcos Llorente own goal, restoring parity for the hosts.

Galatasaray levelled after 20 minutes when Llorente diverted Roland Sallai’s cross into his own net while attempting to intercept, denying Jan Oblak a clean sheet on his 100th Champions League appearance. The Turkish side almost went ahead before the break, but Baris Yilmaz wasted a clear opportunity, firing over the bar when well placed.

Read Also: Real Madrid beat Atletico to reach Spanish Super Cup final

Atletico pressed after the restart and came close to regaining the lead just before the hour mark, only for Abdulkerim Bardakci to clear David Hancko’s goal-bound effort off the line. Diego Simeone later introduced Antoine Griezmann in place of Alexander Sorloth, while keeping Julian Alvarez on the pitch despite the forward’s recent struggles in front of goal. Alvarez, who has scored once in his last 10 matches, delivered a more energetic display than in recent outings.

Late chances fell Atletico’s way, with Griezmann forcing a sharp save from goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir from a free-kick, before the Galatasaray shot-stopper denied Alex Baena to preserve the draw. The hosts nearly snatched victory at the death, but Llorente redeemed himself with a crucial last-ditch interception to stop Eren Elmali from pulling the trigger.

The result leaves Galatasaray facing a tough final fixture away to Manchester City, where they will look to secure a place in the play-off round. Atletico, meanwhile, host Bodo/Glimt in their final league-phase match, still with a chance of breaking into the top eight but now with little margin for error.

January 21, 2026
Prosperity Cup partners Barcelona FC ahead of 2026 tournament

Organisers of the Bayelsa Governor’s Football Tournament, popularly known as the Prosperity Cup, have announced a partnership with Spanish football giants, Barcelona FC, ahead of the 2026 edition of the competition.

Speaking at the pre-event World Press Conference, the Director-General of the tournament, Ono Akpe, disclosed that Barcelona FC coaches would conduct an international coaching clinic in Yenagoa from February 23 to 25, 2026, in collaboration with the Bayelsa State Ministry of Sports Development and the Bayelsa State Football Association.

According to him, the UEFA-certified training programme will focus on Barcelona FC’s coaching methodology and philosophy, and will accommodate 50 coaches.

Akpe said the organisers were intensifying efforts to raise standards, noting that other capacity-building initiatives include refresher programmes for referees, as well as training for medical and media personnel.

“These initiatives are designed to enhance the skills of key stakeholders and contribute to the overall development of football in Bayelsa State,” he said.

As preparations continue for the eighth edition of the tournament, the organisers also announced an increase in prize money, with N30 million earmarked for the male category and N10 million for the female category, in commemoration of Bayelsa State’s 30th anniversary.

The competition is scheduled to kick off on March 1, 2026, with preliminary matches to be held across 30 centres in the state. Local government area finals will take place from April 8 to 20, while the grand finale is slated for May 2, 2026.

Akpe said the partnership with Barcelona FC underscored the Prosperity Cup’s commitment to excellence and its growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading grassroots football tournaments.

“As we look forward to an exciting Season 8, we invite stakeholders, sponsors, and football enthusiasts to join us on this journey.”

‎He, however, thanked Bayelsa State government, lead sponsors Premium Trust Bank, Linkage Assurance, the Nigerian Customs Service, and other sponsors for their massive support over the years in the tournament.

‎He equally called on multinational oil companies operating in the state, the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board, and the Niger Delta Development Commission to align with the vision of the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, by co-sponsoring the competition.

January 21, 2026
UEFA Champions League: Lookman tipped to thrill as Atalanta face Athletic Club

Atalanta coach Raffaele Palladino has praised Nigerian international striker Ademola Lookman for his professional conduct in joining the rest of his teammates in time for tonight’s UEFA Champions League date against visiting Athletic Club.

Lookman was one of the Super Eagles’ standout performers at the recent AFCON tournament, where he scored three goals as well as the winning kick in the penalty shoot-out victory against the Pharaohs of Egypt in the bronze medal match.

According to an impressed Palladino, the 2024 African Footballer of the Year has swiftly returned to the Bergamo side ahead of schedule as he wanted to be involved against Athletic Bilbao in the Champions League.

“On paper, he was supposed to return tomorrow (Wednesday),” Palladino told his press conference as per Football Italia. “But he wanted to play in this game at all costs.

“He’s showing a sense of attachment to this team and I’m happy about that,” he added.

Meanwhile, Palladino believes that Atalanta have a ‘great opportunity’ in tonight’s Champions League duel against Athletic Bilbao.

Atalanta sit in an impressive fifth place in the Champions League standings, level on points with PSG and Manchester City in third and fourth respectively. They all have 13 points from their first six games in the competition this season.

La Dea have also won three of their last four Serie A matches, but were held to a 1-1 draw over the weekend.

“We’ll start again with the spirit that we’ve had over the last two months,” he said. “The Champions League gives you a big competitive charge, but that should also be the case in the league.

Read Also: Victor Osimhen not leaving AFCON camp — NFF official

“We have a great opportunity to do well tomorrow. We’ve had six victories since the Chelsea game and that shows that the team is growing game after game.”

Asked if Atalanta have an issue in games against ‘smaller’ sides, an accusation that has also been pointed at other top teams this season, Palladino replied: “It’s happening to everyone. Anything can happen in a game, even the smaller sides can make the difference. We have to have the right mentality but we also have to give credit to our opponents.”

Palladino was asked whether he thinks 16 points will be enough to earn a spot in the Champions League round of 16 this season.

“The new format is very compelling,” he said. “However, we don’t make calculations. We think game by game. We want to make history. We’re facing a well-prepared and very strong team. They might have a few absences and a few poor results over the last few weeks, but it can all be turned around in the Champions League. Atalanta will have to put in a great performance and the difference will be in the details.”

January 21, 2026
Angola, Gabon lead race to snatch Chelle from Nigeria

The Franco-Malian tactician, who is currently under contract with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) until January 2027, has attracted growing interest following his impressive outing with the Super Eagles.

Reports indicate that Chelle has already turned down an approach from Tunisia, preferring to remain focused on his current assignment with Nigeria for now.

Despite his existing deal, sources close to the situation have told BSNSports that both Angola and Gabon are keen on luring Chelle with lucrative offers as they look to strengthen their national teams ahead of upcoming international competitions.

Read Also: Morocco 2025: NFF launches NAIJA 4 THE WIN campaign for Super Eagles

Meanwhile, Chelle is expected to meet with officials of the Nigeria Football Federation in the coming days to discuss his future.

The talks are understood to be aimed at reaffirming commitment, clarifying long-term plans, and possibly reviewing contractual terms amid rising external interest.

The outcome of the meeting could prove decisive in determining whether Nigeria can retain the highly-rated coach or face a potential battle to keep him beyond the short term.

January 21, 2026
Alakija unveils vision for Lagos Polo Club ahead of new season

Newly elected President of the Lagos Polo Club, Adeyemo Alakija, has unveiled an ambitious roadmap for the club’s future, with a strong focus on infrastructure development, inclusivity, and the preservation of its rich heritage.

Alakija made this known at a press conference held in Lagos yesterday, 20^th January, ahead of the commencement of the new polo season.

Outlining his vision, Alakija said his leadership would be guided by the principle of leaving the club better than he met it.

“My vision for this club is simple,” he said. “My grandmother always says, never leave anywhere the same way you met it. For me, it’s about continuing to improve the Lagos Polo Club and taking it to greater heights.”

He explained that his administration is committed to strengthening the club’s internal structure by fostering a vibrant and diverse membership while maintaining the high standards and values enshrined in its constitution.

“We want to keep building an interesting fabric of members and ensure that we continue to uphold the constitution of the club and the reputation we already have, which is very, very good,” Alakija stated.

Infrastructure upgrade forms a key pillar of the new leadership, as the club seeks to expand its facilities to better accommodate members and enhance their overall experience. While polo remains the centrepiece, Alakija emphasised that other sports within the club will also receive increased attention.

“A lot of people don’t know that we have other games here, including squash, table tennis and darts,” he said. “We want to keep expanding the infrastructure for these sports and generally develop polo as a whole, by building the younger generation and opening it up to more ladies to play.”

He pointed to the successful Ladies Invitational Tournament held in December last year as evidence of the club’s commitment to inclusivity.

“That tournament was very successful, and it shows that we are intentional about being all-encompassing and ensuring that all demographics are covered and can enjoy the sport of polo,” he added.

Addressing questions on the quality of the club’s polo turf, Alakija affirmed that the pitch already meets international standards, while noting that continuous improvements are planned.

“Our turf is world standard, but there is always room for improvement,” he said. “We are constantly growing new grass where it is needed, and we are also planning drainage works around the club to improve water movement and prevent water from sitting on the field. It’s an ongoing development process.”

Beyond polo, the club is also gearing up for increased competitive action in its other sporting disciplines. According to Alakija, tournaments in squash, table tennis and darts are in the pipeline, with sponsorship support already secured.

Read Also: AFCON 2025: CBN handling direct payment of Super Eagles’ allowances-NFF

“Our Other Games member, Mr. Fred Allison, is charged with ensuring the development of those sports,” he explained. “You can look forward to competitions around squash, table tennis and darts. We have sponsors lined up, and we are very excited about pushing these initiatives.”

With competitions scheduled to begin from January 27, Alakija also highlighted why the Lagos Polo Club stands out as a must-visit destination for sports enthusiasts during the season.

“In Lagos, you can watch football or basketball almost anywhere, but polo is different,” he said. “Lagos Polo Club is the biggest polo club in the country in terms of clout, membership and history. It also offers a great environment for networking and social interaction, beyond just what happens on the field.”

Further emphasising the club’s stature, another official at the press conference recalled its long-standing legacy, noting that the Lagos Polo Club was founded in 1904.

“We are talking about over 122 years of existence,” the official said. “There is a deep heritage of polo here. The quality of polo that will be played this season is top in Nigeria and top in Africa. If you want to experience quality polo in the right environment, you don’t want to miss being at the Lagos Polo Club from January 27 to February 15.”

As the new polo season approaches, the Lagos Polo Club appears poised for another landmark chapter under Alakija’s leadership, blending tradition with development and a renewed commitment to inclusivity.

January 21, 2026
Oyedeji’s election into IOC’s body excites Gumel

Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, President of the Nigerian Olympic Committee (NOC), has officially congratulated Olumide Oyedeji on his election as the Secretary-General of the World Olympians Association (WOA).

Oyedeji, who serves as the 3^rd Vice President of the NOC and President of the Nigeria Olympians Association (NOA), secured the position in a landslide victory during a virtual General Assembly held in Sunday.

Oyedeji won on the first ballot with 55 votes, comfortably defeating his closest opponents, Salvador Salguero of El Salvador and Liston Brochette of Puerto Rico, who received 32 and 19 votes, respectively.

A statement released by Tony Nezianya, the Public Relations Officer of NOC, noted that the election involved over 107 delegates from National Olympians Associations (NOAs) across the globe.

The WOA is a prestigious body under the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Read Also: Osimhen-Lookman Row: NFF dismisses ruckus in Super Eagles’ camp

It is notably the same constituency that produced the newly elected IOC President, Kirsty Coventry (the legendary Zimbabwean swimmer and two-time Olympic gold medallist).

Olumide Oyedeji’s ascent to this global role reinforces Nigeria’s growing influence within the International Olympic Committee.

As a former NBA star and captain of the Nigerian men’s basketball team (D’Tigers), Oyedeji has long been a vocal advocate for athlete welfare.

His election comes at a time of “African excellence” in sports governance, following Kirsty Coventry’s historic election as the first female and first African President of the IOC in 2025.

Only recently, one of Nigeria’s star table tennis prodigies, Funke Oshonaike, was nominated by the IOC president, Christy Coventry, to join the Athletes Commission.

January 21, 2026
AFCON bronze: NOC hails Eagles’ improvement under Chelle’s watch

The President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr. Habu Ahmed Gumel, celebrates the Super Eagles over the Pharaohs of Egypt to claim the bronze medal at the AFCON tournament.

After a gruelling semi-final, the team demonstrated immense faith and character to regroup and dominate the third-place match against the Pharaohs of Egypt.

A statement released by Tony Nezianya, the Public Relation Officer of the NOC, noted that this victory is a testament to the remarkable evolution of the squad under Coach Eric Chelle.

In just one year, the team has undergone a complete transformation: from goal-shy to clinical; overcoming previous scoring struggles to become a formidable attacking force.

Read Also: Victor Osimhen not leaving AFCON camp — NFF official

Coach Chelle has been able to rebuild the team into a disciplined, respectable side that commands authority on the pitch.

The Eagles are now national pride and are once more showing the “never-say-die” Nigerian spirit in the face of elite competition.

The Super Eagles have once again proven they are a powerhouse of African football.

According to Gumel:“ I look forward to the continued evolvement of this exciting new era.”

January 21, 2026
PuffyTee highlights Super Eagles’ collective brilliance for AFCON bronze

From the entertainment scene to the business sector; from sports administrators to sports loving Nigerians, the impressive outing of the Super Eagles at the recently concluded 2025 Africa Cup of Nations(AFCON) is receiving wide commendation.

The latest public figure to join the long list of those celebrating the Super Eagles, is distinguished music producer, PuffyTee.

The entertainment mogul described the Super Eagles’ impressive AFCON campaign as the result of collective brilliance and technicality.

“Under the leadership of Coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles displayed tactical and collective brilliance for the world to see,” PuffyTee told First ZealMediaCast Blog. “Everywhere in the world, it’s all about the Super Eagles’ impressive performance.

“It’s not just another bronze medal as some may say, but a statement of strength and character, it proves that we are still a force to reckon with in African football and that Nigerians never back down,” he added.

Read Also: Ladipo: NFF interference killing Football Supporters Club

PuffyTee who is the producer behind the hit song Yahooze by Olu Maintain, highlighted some of the players for special commendation.

“The players of the day for me were Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams and heroic shot-stopper, Stanley Nwabali and Alex Iwobi. Everyone did well but these four were exceptional. By every measure this campaign deserves an 8 out of 10, they were strong, inspiring and full of promise,” PuffyTee stressed.

He praised the Super Eagles’ for recovering quickly from their Morocco heartbreak.

“Although the semi-finals loss was very heartbreaking, they showed resilience, bounced back and reminded us that setbacks are just a phase,” PuffyTee explained.

He urged the coach to pay more attention to strategy and game plans.

“Only that at times the Team act above par, football on the continent is evolving and we need to step up our game, interchange and strategy and style of play. But nonetheless we still remain a force to reckon with,” he stated even as he called for more development for Nigerian football.

“If Nigeria is to rise by 2027, we must act now, we have to invest in youth development and in our League, building academies for young talents,” he said.

January 21, 2026
NWFL: FC Robo stake unbeaten record in south west derby as Bayelsa Queens visit troubled Adamawa Queens

With the league phase gathering real momentum, Matchday 7 of the NWFL Premiership arrives at a critical point in the season. Unbeaten runs are under threat, local derbies take centre stage and the battle lines in both Groups A and B are becoming more clearly defined. From title-defining clashes to survival six-pointers, today’s fixtures promise drama, pride and decisive moments across the country, reports TUNDE LIADI.

In Gombe’s Pantami Stadium, Bayelsa Queens travel north sitting pretty at the summit of Group A with a perfect 15 points from five matches, fresh from clipping Rivers Angels’ wings in a dominant South-South derby last midweek. The Prosperity Girls have been ruthless at both ends, conceding few chances and striking with authority.

Adamawa Queens, meanwhile, are under pressure near the lower half of the table and will be desperate to halt Bayelsa’s momentum on home soil. Anything short of maximum concentration could be punished by the league leaders, but the hosts will hope altitude and home support can spark an upset.

Still smarting from their first defeat of the season, Rivers Angels return home to face Heartland Queens knowing there is little margin for error. Third on the log with 12 points, the Port Harcourt giants cannot afford further slip-ups if they are to keep Bayelsa and Edo Queens within reach.

Heartland Queens arrive buoyant after back-to-back solid performances that have lifted them to fourth with eight points. Well organised and increasingly confident, the Owerri side will fancy their chances of exploiting any lingering vulnerability in the Angels’ ranks.

Second-placed Edo Queens (12 points, superior goal difference) will be clear favourites as they welcome winless Pacesetters Queens. Edo’s emphatic away victory in Abuja last time out underlined their title credentials, with goals flowing freely from midfield and attack.

For Pacesetters Queens, still rooted at the bottom with just one point, this is another stern test. Defensive discipline will be key if they are to avoid further damage against one of the league’s most balanced sides.

Ibom Angels versus Ekiti Queens fixture pits two sides heading in opposite directions. Ibom Angels have slipped to seventh with four points after consecutive defeats, while Ekiti Queens’ impressive away win in Ibadan lifted them to fifth with seven points.

Ekiti will target another road victory to stay in touch with the top four, while Ibom Angels must rediscover their early-season resilience to avoid being dragged deeper into trouble.

In Group B, Remo Stars Ladies versus FC Robo Queens tie is the headline act of Matchday 7 and it is also a mouthwatering South-West derby. FC Robo Queens arrive in Ikenne with a flawless record—six wins from six—and a four-point cushion at the top of Group B. Ruthless and composed, the Lagos side have set the pace all season.

Remo Stars Ladies, however, are no pushovers as the Sky Blue Ladies have already shown they can go toe-to-toe with strong opposition. A derby atmosphere, home support and the chance to dent Robo’s perfect run make this a potential season-defining encounter.

Read Also: Ladipo: NFF interference killing Football Supporters Club

Regional pride fuels another South-West showdown between Osun Babes and Sunshine Queens at Lanlereke Sports Complex, Ileogbo. Osun Babes, sitting in the lower half after recent setbacks, face a Sunshine Queens side that has drawn too many matches but remains difficult to beat.

Both teams need points for different reasons—Osun Babes to steady their campaign, Sunshine Queens to climb closer to the top four. Expect a tense, physical contest with little given away.

Fresh from their first win of the season, Confluence Queens welcome one of the league’s most consistent sides, Nasarawa Amazons to their adopted home ground at Iyamho. Nasarawa Amazons remain unbeaten and sit second with 14 points, firmly in the title hunt behind FC Robo.

Iyamho will be a tricky stop, but the Amazons’ experience and defensive solidity could prove decisive. Confluence, now off the mark, will hope renewed confidence can drive another upset.

In Asaba, third-placed Delta Queens (10 points) continue their steady climb and will see this home fixture against Abia Angels as a chance to consolidate their top-three position. Their narrow away win last week in Umuahia against Ahudiyannem Queens highlighted their ability to grind out results.

Abia Angels, struggling near the foot of the table after another defeat at home to FC Robo Queens, must find inspiration quickly if they are to avoid being cut adrift.

January 21, 2026
Rivers Hoopers’ Nwaiwu reflects on unforgettable Christmas cum New Year holidays

Holidays are special for various reasons. For some it’s a time to relax, unwind, take a trip, indulge in fun activities, enjoy solitude, exchange gifts, a time to reflect, or even strategize.

For most of the year, Rivers Hoopers‘ vice-captain, Nwaiwu Onyebuchi Vincent, lives a fast-paced life—training sessions, long travels, high-stakes games, and the unrelenting demands of elite basketball. But when the Christmas and New Year holidays arrived, Buchi pressed pause and returned to the one place that always reminds him: home.

It wasn’t a holiday defined by luxury or long-distance getaways. Rather, it was one which strengthened family ties and brought moments of reflection and a selfless act of service that left a lasting impression.

The holidays brought Buchi something that a demanding basketball calendar rarely allows: time. Time with family. Time with siblings who came around after long periods apart and the opportunity to reconnect with friends he had not seen in years.

Between conversations and shared memories, there were moments of simplicity: finding time to eat rice and chicken, laughing at old stories, and soaking in the warmth that only family can provide.

But make no mistake, it was not a quiet holiday. It was busy, sometimes stressful—but deeply meaningful.

“It was stressful,” Buchi admits. “But it was eventful.”

Part of Onyebuchi’s holiday took him on a journey to his hometown in Ahiazu-Mbaise Local Government Area, Imo State, for a funeral. The trip, though filled with sobriety, served as a prompt about the enduring strength of community and a telling reminder that basketball, while important, is only one part of a much larger story.

On December 23, Buchi and his siblings came together with a shared purpose: to give back to widows in his hometown.

It was a collaborative effort rooted in gratitude, kindness, and empathy, and for the Rivers Hoopers vice-captain, it became the defining highlight of his holiday.

“To see the smiles on their faces”, Buchi recalls, “was absolutely fulfilling. That was the highlight of my holiday – the best part of it. I loved every bit of the experience.”

In those moments, basketball titles and personal achievements faded into the background, replaced by the joy of service and the power of community, accompanied by a gentle reminder that giving back is not an obligation but a privilege.

For Buchi, the holiday period is more than just a break from competition. It is essential—especially for an athlete.

Read Also: Morocco 2025: NFF backs Chelle to achieve future greater things with Eagles

“The importance of the holidays to me cannot be overemphasized,” he explains. “It’s a time to bond with family, to be with siblings and friends I haven’t had time to see all year.”

As a professional athlete, Buchi understands the cost of constant physical exertion and the need for balance.

“You can’t work your body all year round without rest,” he adds. “You also need time to bond with family. That balance is crucial in the life of an athlete.”

As preparations for another demanding campaign begins, Buchi returned refreshed – not just in body, but also in spirit, as the holidays gave him rest, perspective, renewed purpose, and motivation for the season ahead.

For the veteran KingsMan, time away from the hardwood reaffirmed a fundamental truth: success is not only measured in points, wins, or trophies, but also in connection, compassion, and giving back to community.

January 21, 2026