The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Gabon reinstate Aubameyang, Manga  for Panthers

    Gabon reinstate Aubameyang, Manga  for Panthers

    Gabon players Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Bruno Ecuele Manga have been reinstated to the national team following their expulsion after a disappointing Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

    Both players were removed from the Gabon team, the coaching staff including head coach Thierry Mouyouma was fired, and the whole squad was suspended by Gabon’s government after it failed to win a game at the Africa Cup in Morocco.

    Gabon were the second team eliminated from the AFCON after consecutive defeats in their opening two matches, first falling 1-0 to neighbours and rivals Cameroon, before a 3-2 loss against Mozambique.

    Read Also: Ladipo: NFF interference killing Football Supporters Club

    The Gabonese Football Federation said the “government measures suspending the national team” and excluding the two players were lifted Monday. Mouyouma and his coaching staff remained fired.

    The federation said Gabon’s newly appointed sports minister, Paul Ulrich Kessany, wrote to it to stress the importance of upcoming events, particularly the draw for the 2027 Africa Cup qualifiers. It said Kessany urged the federation to take steps to present him “with all the practical details for selecting a new coaching staff.”

    Gabon’s interim sports minister, Simplice-Désiré Mamboula, had announced the suspensions, firings and exclusions on national TV after Gabon’s final group game against Cote d’Ivoire  on Dec. 31.

    Kessany, a former Gabon player, was subsequently appointed sports minister on Jan. 3.

  • NPFL: Kano Pillars, Insurance, Wolves win on the road as Rivers United stay top

    NPFL: Kano Pillars, Insurance, Wolves win on the road as Rivers United stay top

    The second stanza of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League season kicked off yesterday with grit, goals and crucial results across the country on Matchday 20, as Rivers United protected their leadership, Kano Pillars, Bendel Insurance and Warri Wolves claimed valuable away victories, while Shooting Stars exacted sweet revenge in the WABIA derby.

    At the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu, Rangers International were unable to avenge their first-stanza defeat to Rivers United as both sides settled for a goalless draw. The result was enough for the Pride of Rivers to consolidate their position at the top of the table with 38 points from 20 matches, maintaining a four-point cushion. Rangers, meanwhile, remain sixth with 30 points, having failed to capitalise on home advantage.

    In Umuahia, Abia Warriors missed a golden opportunity to close the gap on the leaders, Rivers United as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Plateau United at the Umuahia Township Stadium. Emeka Obioma fired the Umuchineke Boys ahead in the 28th minute, but Saka Gafar had stunned the home crowd earlier with an 8th-minute opener for Plateau United.

    Abia Warriors stay second with 34 points, while Plateau United, under new Technical Adviser Gbenga Ogunbote, remain 19th  with 20 points.

    Remo Stars marked their first competitive match at their permanent home in Ikenne with a narrow 1-0 victory over Ikorodu City in the South West derby. Haruna Hadi struck the decisive goal in the 47th   minute to restore parity after Ikorodu City’s first-stanza win. The defending champions move to 13th  with 25 points, while Ikorodu City sit third on 32 points despite the setback.

    One of the standout performances of the midweek matches came in Ibadan, where Shooting Stars delivered a commanding 3-0 win over Enyimba in the WABIA derby at the Lekan Salami Stadium. Goals from Lucky Emmanuel (17’), Sodiq Ibrahim (81’) and Qamar Adegoke (89’) completed a comprehensive reversal of the 3-0 defeat the Oluyole Warriors suffered in Aba at the end of the first stanza. The emphatic win lifts Shooting Stars to fourth place with 32 points, while Enyimba’s inconsistency continues to haunt them in 11th spot with 26 points.

    In Lafia, Kano Pillars completed a league double over Nasarawa United with a 1-0 away win, having beaten the Solid Miners 3-0 in the reverse fixture. Chiedozie Okorie’s 49th -minute strike proved decisive as Sai Masu Gida boosted their survival hopes. Despite the win, Pillars remain 18th  with 22 points, while Nasarawa United slipped to fifth with 32 points.

    At the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano, Barau FC continued their steady climb away from the relegation zone with a 2-1 home win over Niger Tornadoes. Uche Moses opened the scoring in the 25th  minute, Muhammad Umar doubled the advantage shortly after the restart, while Clinton Jephta pulled one back for Tornadoes in the 65th minute. Barau FC are now 15th with 24 points, while Tornadoes sit seventh on 29 points.

    Read Also: Morocco vs. Nigeria: NFF quashes fears of manipulative officiating  

    In Ilorin, Bendel Insurance secured a rare league double over Kwara United with a 1-0 away victory at the Kwara Sports Complex. Emmanuel Akpan’s 37th -minute goal sealed the win, marking the Edo Arsenal’s third consecutive away victory of the season. Kennedy Boboye’s side climb to eighth with 29 points, as Kwara United drop to 14th with 24 points.

    Warri Wolves also impressed on the road, edging Wikki Tourists 1-0 in Bauchi thanks to Ezekiel Oroh’s 59th -minute strike. The Seasiders’ fourth away win of the campaign lifts them to 10th  with 27 points, while Wikki Tourists remain 16th with 23 points, just outside the relegation zone on goal difference.

    In Maiduguri, El Kanemi Warriors completed a double over Bayelsa United with a 1-0 victory, courtesy of Daddy Abdulrahman’s 19th-minute goal. The Borno Army move up to ninth with 28 points, while Bayelsa United continue to struggle in 17th  place with 23 points.

    The final fixture of Matchday 20 is scheduled for today in Kano, where Katsina United host Kun Khalifat. Katsina United hold a slim advantage after winning the first leg 1-0 in Owerri two weeks ago.

  • NWFL: Bayelsa Queens clip Rivers Angels as FC Robo keep momentum

    NWFL: Bayelsa Queens clip Rivers Angels as FC Robo keep momentum

    Rivers Angels’ unbeaten start to the 2025/2026 Nigeria Women’s Football League (NWFL) Premiership came to an end on yesterday as fellow title contenders Bayelsa Queens secured a commanding 2–0 victory in the headline fixture of Matchday Six.

    As the dust settled across the two groups, only Bayelsa Queens, FC Robo Queens and Nasarawa Amazons remain unbeaten, underlining the growing intensity of the title race.

    The standout encounter in Group A took place at the Southern University Stadium, Ozoro, where Bayelsa Queens dominated the South-South derby against Rivers Angels. First-half goals from Janet Akekoromowei (26’) and Kindness Ifeanyi Chinaza (33’) proved decisive as the Prosperity Girls ran out 2–0 winners. Despite being reduced to ten players in the 75th minute, Bayelsa held firm to protect their perfect start.

    The victory keeps Bayelsa Queens top of Group A with 15 points, while Rivers Angels dropped to third on 12 points, surrendering their unbeaten record.

    Edo Queens climbed to second place on superior goal difference after a comprehensive 3–0 away win over Naija Ratels in Abuja. Goals from Atume Doosuur, Mary Mamudu and Precious Oscar sealed the emphatic result. Naija Ratels remain eighth with just two points, still searching for their first win of the campaign.

    Read Also: Morocco vs. Nigeria: NFF quashes fears of manipulative officiating  

    In Owerri, Heartland Queens continued their steady rise with a 2–0 victory over Ibom Angels. Goals from Oluebube Umejiaku (27’) and Onyinyechi Kalu (45’) lifted the Owerri side to fourth place with eight points, while Ibom Angels slipped to seventh on four points after suffering consecutive defeats.

    Elsewhere, Ekiti Queens recorded a valuable 2–0 away win against Pacesetters Queens in Ibadan. The result moved Ekiti Queens to fifth with seven points, while Pacesetters Queens remain winless after six games, rooted near the bottom with just one point.

    In Group B, FC Robo Queens continued their flawless campaign with a 2–0 away victory over Abia Angels in Aba. Goals from Oluwakemi Adegbuyi and Toyin Rafiu ensured the Lagos side maintained their 100 percent record—six wins from six matches—as they opened a four-point gap at the summit.

    Second-placed Nasarawa Amazons, also unbeaten, kept pace with a solid 2–0 home win over Osun Babes in Lafia. The Amazons now sit on 14 points, firmly in the title conversation.

    There was relief for Confluence Queens, who claimed their first win of the season with a convincing 3–0 triumph over Dannaz Ladies in Lagos. Goals from Blessing Sunday and Seember Emmanuel powered the Lokoja-based side to four points, lifting them to eighth position.

    Former champions Delta Queens moved up to third with 10 points following a narrow 1–0 away win against Ahudiyannem Queens, who remain bottom of the table with two points after their fourth defeat in six outings.

    The South-West derby in Akure ended honours even as Sunshine Queens and Remo Stars Ladies played out a 1–1 draw, a result that left both sides sharing the spoils in a tightly contested encounter.

  • EFL Cup semi-final: Arsenal beat Chelsea 3-2 to take first-leg advantage

    EFL Cup semi-final: Arsenal beat Chelsea 3-2 to take first-leg advantage

    Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez made errors that contributed to two of Arsenal’s three goals in a dramatic Carabao Cup semi-final first leg – but Alejandro Garnacho scored twice to keep Chelsea in the tie.

    Sanchez failed to claim Declan Rice’s corner, allowing Ben White to head in Arsenal’s seventh-minute opener from close range – and the goalkeeper let a cross squirm through his fingers shortly after half-time for Viktor Gyokeres to make it 2-0.

    Garnacho pulled one back 12 minutes into the second half, but Martin Zubimendi’s brilliant shimmy and finish restored Arsenal’s two-goal advantage.

    Read Also: 10 Nigerians arrested as Spain, Germany crack down on criminal network

    The former Manchester United winger then volleyed in his second of the match after Kepa Arrizabalaga’s clearance dropped at his feet.

    Chelsea’s hopes of reaching Wembley to face either Newcastle or Manchester City remain alive, but they must overturn a one-goal deficit at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium on 3 February.

    BBS SPORT

  • FULL LIST: 15 qualified countries for FIFA World Cup 2026 affected by US visa restrictions

    FULL LIST: 15 qualified countries for FIFA World Cup 2026 affected by US visa restrictions

    Concerns are mounting ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following reports of expanded U.S. visa suspensions and stricter immigration controls affecting citizens from several countries already qualified for the tournament. 

    While FIFA has received assurances that players, officials, and accredited team personnel will be granted entry under special exemptions, the situation poses serious challenges for fans, media workers, and non-official delegations hoping to attend matches hosted in the United States.

    Below is a breakdown of the qualified countries reportedly affected and the implications for each.

    1. Algeria

    Algeria have secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup and remain one of Africa’s strongest representatives. However, Algerian citizens are among those facing tighter U.S. visa scrutiny. Although the national team is expected to receive full clearance, supporters and independent media personnel could experience prolonged visa processing or outright denials.

    2. Brazil

    Brazil, one of the first teams to qualify from South America, is also affected by visa processing suspensions applying to several countries. While Brazil’s football federation and players are expected to be protected by tournament exemptions, the restrictions may significantly limit the number of Brazilian fans able to travel to U.S. host cities.

    3. Cape Verde

    Cape Verde’s qualification marks a historic achievement for the island nation. Despite this milestone, travel limitations for Cape Verdean citizens could dampen celebrations, as supporters may face challenges securing visas to attend matches in the United States.

    4. Colombia

    Colombia have returned to the World Cup stage but are also listed among countries affected by visa-related suspensions. Fan groups and football tour operators have already raised concerns over uncertainty surrounding travel approvals ahead of the tournament.

    Read Also: 10 Nigerians arrested as Spain, Germany crack down on criminal network

    5. Côte d’Ivoire

    The Ivorian national team booked their place at the expanded 48-team World Cup. However, visa restrictions affecting ordinary citizens could prevent large numbers of supporters from traveling, potentially reducing African fan presence at U.S.-based fixtures.

    6. Egypt

    Egypt’s qualification ensures the presence of one of Africa’s most followed teams. Still, Egyptian citizens may encounter administrative hurdles under current U.S. immigration measures, creating logistical difficulties for fans planning early travel.

    7. Ghana

    Ghana’s return to the World Cup has been met with enthusiasm, but visa challenges may restrict supporter turnout. The situation is particularly sensitive given Ghana’s large football-loving diaspora that typically travels in large numbers for major tournaments.

    8. Haiti

    Haiti’s qualification is considered historic, but it comes amid existing U.S. travel and immigration restrictions affecting Haitian nationals. This could severely limit fan attendance and non-official participation during the tournament.

    9. Iran

    Iran qualified early for the 2026 World Cup and are among the most impacted nations due to longstanding U.S. travel bans and restrictions. While the team is expected to enter under FIFA and diplomatic exemptions, Iranian fans face some of the strictest barriers to attending matches in the United States.

    10. Jordan

    Jordan’s qualification represents a major footballing achievement. However, visa processing pauses affecting Jordanian citizens could complicate travel for supporters and football stakeholders outside official team delegations.

    11. Morocco

    Morocco, semi-finalists at the 2022 World Cup and now qualified again, are also affected by visa policy changes. Concerns have been raised that Moroccan fans, who are known for strong international support, may be underrepresented at U.S. venues.

    12. Senegal

    Senegal’s qualification continues their recent World Cup consistency. However, visa restrictions affecting Senegalese nationals could prevent many supporters from attending, prompting concerns from fan associations and diaspora groups.

    13. Tunisia

    Tunisia have once again reached the World Cup but face similar challenges, with visa processing suspensions potentially limiting travel for fans and independent media.

    14. Uruguay

    Uruguay’s qualification from South America is not in doubt, but visa complications affecting Uruguayan citizens could reduce fan turnout, particularly for matches scheduled in U.S. cities.

    15. Uzbekistan

    Uzbekistan have qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history. Despite the significance of the achievement, visa restrictions could prevent many supporters from witnessing the historic moment in person.

    Overall implications

    FIFA and U.S. authorities have indicated that players, coaches, match officials, and essential tournament staff will be granted entry under special provisions. However, the broader impact on fans, supporters’ groups, journalists, and football tourists remains a major concern. With the United States hosting the majority of matches, visa accessibility may play a significant role in shaping the atmosphere, attendance, and global inclusivity of the 2026 World Cup.

    As the tournament approaches, pressure is expected to mount on U.S. authorities and FIFA to clarify exemptions and ensure that the world’s biggest sporting event remains accessible to supporters from all qualified nations.

  • FULL LIST: 20 players risk suspension ahead of AFCON finals

    FULL LIST: 20 players risk suspension ahead of AFCON finals

    As the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 reaches its semi-final stage, 20 players from the four semi-finalists, Nigeria, Morocco, Senegal, and Egypt, are at risk of missing the final if they receive another yellow card in today’s matches.

    According to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) disciplinary rules, a player who accumulates two yellow cards during the tournament is automatically suspended for the next match.

    Since yellow cards are not wiped after the quarter-final stage, cautions picked up earlier still count.

    Full 20-name list:

    Nigeria

    Four Super Eagles players are currently one caution away from missing the final:

    Stanley Nwabali

    Calvin Bassey

    Moses Simon

    Frank Onyeka

    The quartet has been instrumental to Nigeria’s run and will need to tread carefully as the stakes rise.

    Read Also: WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons to know opponents Thursday

    Morocco:

    Three Atlas Lions players are also at risk:

    Bilal El Khannouss

    Soufiane Rahimi

    Ismael Saibari

    All three have played significant roles in Morocco’s attacking and midfield setups.

    Senegal

    Senegal has the highest number of players at risk, with seven names on the suspension watchlist:

    Kalidou Koulibaly

    Ismail Jakobs

    Pape Gueye

    Habib Diarra

    Habib Diallo

    Nicolas Jackson

    Ibrahim Mbaye

    Egypt

    Mohamed El Shenawy

    Hamdy Fathy

    Rami Rabia

    Marwan Attia

    Ahmed Fattouh

    Hossam Abdelmaguid

    Notably, Nigeria’s captain, Wilfred Ndidi, is already suspended for today’s match against Morocco due to accumulated yellow cards.

    The Super Eagles will be hoping to secure a spot in the final without their skipper, while Morocco will be looking to make history on home soil.

    The semi-final matches are set to take place on January 14, 2026, with Egypt facing Senegal and Nigeria taking on Morocco.

    The winners will qualify for the AFCON final scheduled for January 18, 2026.

  • WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons to know opponents Thursday

    WAFCON 2026: Super Falcons to know opponents Thursday

    Defending champions Nigeria’s Super Falcons will find out their group-stage opponents for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations when the official draw is conducted on Thursday, according to reports by Completesports.com.

    The draw ceremony is scheduled to take place at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Sports Complex in Rabat, as the Confederation of African Football prepares for an expanded edition of the tournament, which will now feature 16 teams.

    Nigeria will headline a strong field that includes hosts Morocco, as well as Algeria, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, and Cape Verde. Other nations set to battle for continental honours are Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, and Zambia.

    All 16 qualified teams will be placed into four pots for the draw, with seeding determined by the FIFA Women’s World Ranking released on 11 December 2025.

    In addition to the draw, CAF will use the occasion to unveil the winners of the CAF Women’s Coach of the Year and other major women’s football awards.

    The 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations finals will be staged from 17 March to 3 April, 2026.

  • AFCON semi-final: Morocco’s home advantage won’t stop us – Osimhen

    AFCON semi-final: Morocco’s home advantage won’t stop us – Osimhen

    Super Eagles are set to face Morocco in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-finals, with team assistant captain Victor Osimhen predicting a tough match.

    Osimhen, who will lead the team in Wilfred Ndidi’s absence, in an interview with CBS Sports Golazo, acknowledged the challenge posed by the Atlas Lions, who will be buoyed by the support of their home crowd.

    However, the Galatasaray striker, ahead of their Wednesday night’s match, expressed confidence that the Super Eagles have the talent and determination to overcome the hosts and secure a place in the final.

    Read Also: Osimhen to captain Eagles as Chelle bemoans Ndidi’s absence

    He said, “They have a very good squad, talented players, but I think we are one of the most feared teams in this tournament. Considering the kind of talents we have in the squad. I think there is no pressure in the camp. We don’t even talk about the Morocco team in the camp; we just take one game as they come.

    “We just played a very big nation, Algeria, and we just displayed something that the whole world sees that these guys are really up for the trophy. But of course it’s not going to be easy because the Moroccans are playing in front of their crowd, which is an advantage for them.

    “I think many of us here in the Super Eagles have played in Stadiums where there is an 80- 90 capacity. So for me, personally, there is absolutely no pressure. I just focus on my team, and when the day of the match comes, we just give everything and hope for the win. It’s not going to be easy, but I think we’ve got a chance.”

  • AFCON 2025: Troost-Ekong, Aina send wishes to Super Eagles ahead of semi-final clash

    AFCON 2025: Troost-Ekong, Aina send wishes to Super Eagles ahead of semi-final clash

    Former Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, and defender, Ola Aina, have sent encouraging messages to the Nigerian national team ahead of their semi-final clash against Morocco.

    Troost-Ekong expressed his pride in the team’s progress and confidence in their ability to win against the host nation.

    He noted that the team’s midfield balance and rotation are yielding positive results and predicted that a win over Morocco would propel Nigeria to the title.

    “My brothers, the day is here and I cannot tell you how excited I am to watch you guys beat Morocco tonight. I’m more than proud to have been a part of your team and what you guys are achieving now.

    “It’s been game after game, getting better and better. The rotation is working now.

    “If you win this game against Morocco, you guys are going to lift the trophy. Stick together, enjoy the moment.

    “These moments only come sometimes in life. Enjoy it because it’s going to be some of the best moments of your life, stick together and fight together”, he said.

    Read Also: Int’l Retirement: Troost-Ekong admits  ‘bittersweet’ decision  as Iwobi pays tribute

    Ola Aina also praised the players and technical crew, commending their collective effort at the competition.

    He wished the team all the best in the semi-finals and expressed his pride in their performance.

    “I just want to wish you guys all the very best in the semi-finals. To all the players, the technical crew, the manager, coaches, physios and doctors, everyone that are there is doing a fantastic job.

    “It’s been amazing seeing you guys play the way we know you can play. I’ll be rooting for you from home, sending you all my prayers and well wishes man” he said.

    The Super Eagles have been impressive in the tournament, winning all five matches played so far and scoring more goals than any other team.

    They will face Morocco, who have recorded four victories and one draw, in the semi-finals today.

  • Chelle unfazed by ‘biggest test’ Morocco in Rabat showdown

    Chelle unfazed by ‘biggest test’ Morocco in Rabat showdown

    • Franco-Malian coach  reveals master plan to subdue Lions

    Nigeria’s Super Eagles face Morocco’s Atlas Lions in the 2025 AFCON semi-final tonight in Rabat, a highly anticipated clash dubbed the “mother of all battles.” The winner progresses to the final even as three time African champions, Nigeria aim  for  fourth AFCON title.

    Yet despite  admitting Morocco as the “biggest test,”  coach Eric  Sekou Chelle  remains  calm and confidence, emphasizing the Super Eagles’ readiness after an impressive unbeaten run in the tournament, including a 2-0 quarter-final win over Algeria.

    “Algeria was a biggest test,” the 48-year-old said with his usual sceptical mien. “Morocco is a biggest test.”

    Chelle who led his native Mali to a quarter-final finish at the 2023 AFCON where they lost 2-1 in extra-time to the hosts Cote d’Ivoire at the last tournament, compares every game to a cup final, reinforcing the team’s mind-set of giving their all in each match. He acknowledges the high expectations but insists the squad is mentally and physically prepared.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: What to know ahead of Super Eagles Clash against Morocco

     “Every game is a biggest test for this team because the expectation is very  much,” Chelle volunteered. “We are ready for this game and we have played every game at this tournament  as if it’s the last (cup final) and try to give everything.”

    Yet  Chelle has  hinted  at a potentially defensive game plan, relying on counterattacks and a “low block” defensive approach, aims to frustrate Morocco and exploit chances in the second half.

    Besides Morocco’s overall threat, Chelle is particularly mindful of Brahim Diaz (Real Madrid), who has five goals in five games. However, he will not solely concentrate on Diaz but prepare a broader defensive strategy.

    “I feel that my squad is tired, so I may have to change my approach,” Chelle further said at his press conference. “We might let Morocco have the ball and wait for them.

    “We have seen that they struggle when they come up against a low block. I think we will start like that. We will try to hold on in the first half and then play our game in the second half,” he added.

      At Morocco 2025, the Super  Eagles have  already beaten two other North African giants in  Tunisia and Algeria but Chelle stresses Morocco is different under coach Walid Regragui as such the fixture against  the Atlas Lions  will require different tactical approach.

    “Algeria and Morocco are two good teams with good players, but Morocco doesn’t play like Algeria, and Walid Regragui isn’t Vladimir Petkovic. I will have to work, and my group too, to beat this team tomorrow,” Chelle added.