The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Iwobi lauds Eagles’  team spirit ahead of semi-final test

    Iwobi lauds Eagles’  team spirit ahead of semi-final test

    Alex Iwobi has  hailed coach Eric Chelle for creating a team spirit which has taken the Super Eagles to the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations only two months after their dreams of World Cup qualification were ended in agonising fashion.

    The Nigerians take on AFCON hosts Morocco in Rabat tonight, looking to continue the prolific form which has carried them to the last four.

    They reached the final of the last Cup of Nations two years ago in Cote d’Ivoire before losing to the hosts, while Iwobi also played in the side that reached the semi-finals in 2019.

    But he said a happier environment off the pitch – despite reports of rows with the national football federation over bonuses – was now helping bring out the very best in him and a team in its prime.

    Read Also: Chelle hints at tactical shift ahead of Super Eagles’ clash against Morocco

    “I feel like the difference is the sense of brotherhood, the family environment that we have created for each other,” the 29-year-old Fulham star said at a packed press conference in the Moroccan capital.

    “Of course, at previous AFCONs we have done really well. The team was so strong, but at the same time, we were young, and we were learning about each other.

    “I feel like right now everybody is entering their prime, everyone is doing well for their clubs, and you can see the joy and the chemistry we have when playing for our country.

    “It is not just on the pitch, also off the pitch, there is a big unity, we are a big family. It starts from the coach – he has brought that brotherhood.”

    Nigeria limped through their qualifying campaign for the World Cup and saw their dreams of making it to the finals go up in smoke with a play-off defeat on penalties against the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rabat in November.

    “We have always given 100 per cent,” insisted Iwobi.

    “In the World Cup qualifiers, we wanted to win as well, but it was a difficult moment for us, and we have used that disappointment as motivation to go and achieve something for our country, for ourselves, for our families.”

  • Osimhen to captain Eagles as Chelle bemoans Ndidi’s absence

    Osimhen to captain Eagles as Chelle bemoans Ndidi’s absence

    Galatasaray attacker, Victor Osimhen is set to captain the Super Eagles when they face hosts Morocco in the semi-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations today in Rabat.

    The decision follows the suspension of regular captain Wilfred Ndidi, who is ruled out after accumulating bookings during the tournament. Ndidi received yellow cards in Nigeria’s Round of 16 match against Mozambique and the quarter-final win over Algeria.

    With the Besiktas midfielder unavailable, Osimhen will assume leadership duties for the high-profile fixture. The Galatasaray striker has previously worn the armband, having captained Nigeria in their final group-stage match against Uganda.

    Osimhen was officially named vice-captain on the eve of the tournament, reflecting his growing influence within the squad as Nigeria continue their push for a fourth AFCON title.

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

    Meanwhile, coach Eric Chelle has expressed disappointment over the absence of captain Wilfred Ndidi.

    Ndidi will miss today’s encounter after accumulating yellow cards during the knockout stage of the tournament. The midfielder was booked for time-wasting in Nigeria’s quarter-final victory over Algeria, a caution that ruled him out of the last-four fixture having also received a caution in the Round of 16 win over Mozambique.

    Speaking to reporters in Rabat on yesterday, Chelle admitted that Ndidi’s absence would be keenly felt within the squad.

     “I am disappointed that our captain will not participate in tomorrow’s match, as his influence on the team is substantial,” the former Mali international said.

    Ndidi has been instrumental for Nigeria throughout the competition, providing leadership, balance, and defensive solidity as the Super Eagles chase a place in the final.

  • Moshood tips ‘resurgent’ Super Eagles to subdue Atlas Lions

    Moshood tips ‘resurgent’ Super Eagles to subdue Atlas Lions

    • By Inioluwa David

     Following a master class performance against Algeria, the Nigerian national team is being hailed for a return to the “Nigerian spirit” that defined the Super Eagles’ historic glory days.

    Speaking on the team’s resurgence, vastly experienced  Finland-based Nigerian tactician,  Abdul Aziz ‘Bola’  Moshood, described the display of the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a reflection of “total dedication” and renewed national pride.

    According to Abdul Aziz, the match against Algeria showed a Super Eagles side that was far more structured, mobile, and unselfish than in previous years.

    Read Also: Chelle hints at tactical shift ahead of Super Eagles’ clash against Morocco

     “Nigeria completely outclassed Algeria,” he said. “From kick-off to the final whistle, the team controlled almost 98 percent of the game. It was dominance in every sense of the word.”

    He noted that this tactical evolution comes at a crucial moment as Nigeria prepares to face a formidable Moroccan side. While acknowledging Morocco’s quality, consistency since their World Cup success, and the advantage of playing at home, Abdul Aziz believes an upset is possible.

    “Morocco are a strong team, no doubt,” he said.  “But if Nigeria maintains this squad, this level of focus, and this hunger, they can definitely surprise them.”

    The Atlantis’  coach  also highlighted the impact of the Super Eagles’ wingers, praising their movement, ball progression, and commitment. “The wingers were fantastic,” he added. “They played with purpose, discipline, and patriotism—exactly what Nigerian football is known for.”

    Whether the upcoming clash is decided in open play or stretches into a tense penalty shootout, Abdul Aziz believes the renewed sense of dedication within the squad has reignited hope among fans.

     “This team is beginning to dream again and so are Nigerians,” he concluded.

  • Morocco vs. Nigeria: NFF quashes fears of manipulative officiating  

    Morocco vs. Nigeria: NFF quashes fears of manipulative officiating  

    President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON) has dismissed fears of possible biased officiating when the Super Eagles lock horns with hosts Atlas Lions of Morocco in Wednesday night’s Africa Cup of Nations second semi-final in Rabat.

     “I do not have the same fears of the match officials being biased as some people have. I believe that the grass is always green and that the playing pitch is level. I do not see a situation in which the match officials will be working against any team’s interest.

     “Last summer, we were here in Morocco, for the Women Africa Cup of Nations, and we played the host nation in the Final, even coming from two goals behind to achieve victory. There is nothing to fear. This is the highest level of football on the African continent, and the officials know that CAF as well as the whole world is watching, and will not do anything untoward.”

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

    The NFF supremo and President of WAFU B spoke against the backdrop of widespread fears among Nigerian ball fans that the match officials could blatantly or surreptitiously work in favour of the host nation, which is looking for a second AFCON title after its maiden gong 50 years ago.

    The Super Eagles camp continues to radiate confidence and self-belief ahead of the encounter, as the players keep strictly and professionally to their daily schedule at the Hotel Rihab and at the training ground – Complexe Sportif Mohamed VI.

    Feelers from the Atlas Lions camp reveal that the players are in trepidation of the impact that Nigerian midfielder Alexander Iwobi can have on Wednesday night’s game.

    Iwobi supplied 22 line-breaking passes in the quarter-final game against Mozambique (which Nigeria won 4-0) and 14 against Algeria’s Desert Foxes in Saturday’s quarter final duel in Marrakech. Nigeria won both games, scoring six goals and conceding none.

    The 29-year-old, who debuted for Nigeria against the Democratic Republic of Congo in a friendly in Belgium on 8th October 2015, also supplied the assists for Nigeria’s first two goals of the competition, in the 2-1 win over Tanzania in Fez on 23rd  December.

    He will earn his 96th cap for the Super Eagles tonight.

  • Super Eagles: Pamodzi flays ambush marketing of MTN Nigeria sponsorship rights

    Super Eagles: Pamodzi flays ambush marketing of MTN Nigeria sponsorship rights

    The marketing partner of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Pamodzi Sports Marketing Company, has  warned  Airtel Nigeria  to stop ambushing the sponsorship rights  belonging  to MTN Nigeria.

    According to the CEO of Padmozi, MTN Nigeria as  the exclusive official communications partner and sponsor of the NFF and all of Nigeria’s national football teams, has the sole rights to use the teams, including the Super Eagles, for promotions, advertising, marketing and other commercial activities, as well as players’ image rights.

    He therefore  charged Airtel of trying to benefit from the Super Eagles without paying for sponsorship and continuing to link its products and services to the team.

    Itemuagbor,  said in a statement : “The Super Eagles’ impressive outing and the inherent potentials shown at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco have endeared them to Nigerians and corporate citizens who have been identifying with the team.

    Read Also: Chelle hints at tactical shift ahead of Super Eagles’ clash against Morocco

     “But Airtel’s activities around the Super Eagles at AFCON 2025 were aimed at raising their brand awareness without the proper rights, which is unethical and unlawful. What Airtel has done is infringing MTN Nigeria’s trademarks and other property rights in relation to the Super Eagles around AFCON 2025.

    “This is unlawful and Pamodzi, as the agency responsible for the implementation of the rights between MTN Nigeria and the NFF, will not watch the abuse of the rights MTN Nigeria has paid for as the exclusive official communications partner and sponsor of the Nigeria Football Federation,” he added.

    Pamodzi stressed that the rights given to MTN Nigeria are exclusive and that the NFF has not and will not grant similar rights to any other company in relation to its products and services.

    “The promotional, advertising, and marketing rights granted to MTN Nigeria cover the products stated in the contract. MTN Nigeria and the NFF signed a three-year renewable contract in 2023, making MTN Nigeria the official communications partner and sponsor of all Nigeria’s national football teams, ”Pamodzi stated.

    Pamodzi also praised sponsors of the NFF such as MTN Nigeria, Nigerian Breweries, Premier Lotto, and Mr Chef, saying: “The Super Eagles are flying high today thanks to the support of these sponsors. These sponsors are strategic partners to the NFF, and the Football Federation has not closed the door to other companies that want to associate their brands with the national teams.

     “The Super Eagles have renewed our hopes in them with the way they rose up to the challenge at AFCON 2025 in the true ‘can do’ Nigerian spirit. Corporate organizations and individuals who wish to associate their brands with our national teams are welcome to discuss with us and the NFF, and their rights will be protected.”

  • AFCON on SuperSport: Morocco Await Nigeria While Senegal Face Egypt

    AFCON on SuperSport: Morocco Await Nigeria While Senegal Face Egypt

    The Super Eagles will seek to play in their second Africa Cup of Nations final in as many editions when they play hosts, Morocco, in Rabat  tonight.

     The match kicks off at 9:00 pm. Earlier on the same day at 6pm Nigerian time , Senegal will face Egypt  in Tangier. The two matches will be broadcast live on SuperSport on DStv and GOtv.

    The Super Eagles booked their place in the last four with a 2–0 quarter-final win over Algeria in Marrakech, a disciplined performance decorated by goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams. Nigeria’s defence held firm as Algeria failed to register a shot on target until the closing stages.

    Morocco, playing in front of a home crowd, advanced with a 2–0 victory over Cameroon and remain one of the tournament’s most balanced teams, combining defensive solidity with a potent attack.

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

    Senegal against Egypt is a tasty clash and  marquee pairing. It pits two former Liverpool stars, Sadio Mané and Mohamed Salah, two-thirds of Liverpool’s fames forward line for much of the last decade.

    Senegal reached the semi-finals after a composed 1–0 quarter-final victory over Mali, extending their reputation for defensive strength and efficiency. Egypt advanced with a thrilling 3–2 win against Côte d’Ivoire, with Salah scoring and creating goals.

    The Senegal–Egypt semi is a repeat of the 2021 AFCON final which Senegal won on penalties. Both sides arrive unbeaten in the tournament’s latter stages, setting up a tactical battle between Senegal’s structured defence and Egypt’s attacking cohesion.

    For Nigeria, the semi-final represents a clash of continental styles: the tournament’s highest-scoring team against a Morocco side built on organisation and home support. Meanwhile, the Senegal–Egypt match pits two of Africa’s most storied football nations against one another, with elite talent on display in key positions.

    All AFCON semi-final matches will be shown live on the SuperSport AFCON dedicated channel (GOtv Ch. 59, DStv Ch. 202) with Open Access available to DStv Yanga and GOtv Jolli subscribers.

  • CAF Confirms Ghana’s Laryea for Morocco, Nigeria semi-finals

    CAF Confirms Ghana’s Laryea for Morocco, Nigeria semi-finals

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed Ghana’s Daniel Nii Laryea as  the centre when Nigeria and Morocco clash in their  semi-final  match  at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tonight.

    The encounter will hold at the Prince Moulay Abdallah Stadium, Rabat.

    Laryea was the VAR official for Morocco’s 2-0  quarter-final win against Cameroon.

    Earlier, he demonstrated his on-field authority as centre referee when Algeria faced Burkina Faso in the group stage.

    Read Also: Chelle hints at tactical shift ahead of Super Eagles’ clash against Morocco

    The 39-year-old is recognized as one of Africa’s top referees.

    He has officiated in multiple AFCON editions, CAF Champions League, and Confederation Cup fixtures, consistently commanding respect for his fairness and ability to manage tense matches.

    The game will kick-off at 9pm Nigeria time.

  • Egypt vs. Senegal: Salah-Mane rivalry renewed in AFCON semi-finals

    Egypt vs. Senegal: Salah-Mane rivalry renewed in AFCON semi-finals

    When Mohamed Salah leads out Egypt in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) semi-final against Senegal, he will feel both the weight of expectation from his nation and his own personal pressure to deliver a place in the final.

    The North Africans are record seven-time continental champions but the most recent of those successes came in 2010, a year before the Liverpool forward’s international debut.

    The 33-year-old was a losing finalist at the 2017 and 2021 editions – with those defeats sandwiching a last-16 exit in 2019 on home soil – and he was then injured as Egypt suffered an early exit at the 2023 finals.

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

    “Nobody, even in Egypt, wants to win this trophy more than me,” Salah said after helping his team beat Cote d’Ivoire  in the quarter-finals. “I have won almost every prize. This is the title I am waiting for.”

    The prospect of revenge will also hang heavy in the Tangier air this evening  as the Pharaohs captain will come up against former Reds team-mate Sadio Mane, who got the better of Salah on two of their past three international meetings.

    With both players aged 33, and AFCON to become a quadrennial tournament from 2028, this could prove to be Salah’s last chance to bring the trophy back to Cairo after several disappointments.

    And, for all his silverware with Liverpool and personal honours, the feeling persists among many across Africa that a player cannot be classed as truly great until they have an AFCON title to their name.

  • Morocco coach slams refereeing conspiracy theorists

    Morocco coach slams refereeing conspiracy theorists

    Morocco coach Walid Regragui has poured cold water on conspiracy theorists who suggest referees have been favouring the home team at the Africa Cup of Nations.

    Some broadcast pundits and supporters online have bemoaned a perceived leniency towards Morocco from the tournament officials. Regragui dismissed the claims out of hand.

    “It’s always a shame to go down this path,” he told  his press conference as Morocco prepared to take on Nigeria in their semi-final in Rabat today.

    “They want to make people believe that matches are always won this way. Let’s not kid ourselves, it’s always been the case on the African continent to sow doubts and controversies.

    “You journalists need to do your job,” he added. “A penalty can be given one way in one match and not in another. A handball is called in one match and not in another. I watch a lot of matches because we have many players in Europe, and the controversies are the same everywhere, in Africa or in Europe.”

    Regragui said he believed referees at the tournament were seeking to do their best, but also gave example of incidents in matches where he felt the whistle did not favour Morocco.

    He cited two incidents from their impressive 2-0 win over Cameroon in their quarter-final on Friday to illustrate his argument.

    Read Also: Chelle hints at tactical shift ahead of Super Eagles’ clash against Morocco

    “One of their defenders puts his foot on Abde (Ezzalzouli)’s ankle, and if VAR reviews the play, it’s a penalty,” he said. “The goalkeeper comes out to challenge (Ismael) Saibari and puts both hands in his head, that’s a penalty. But neither were given.”

    Regragui said he had told his players to ignore any refereeing controversy.

    “The only way to win is on the pitch, by winning our matches. You’ve never heard me talk about the refereeing after a match,” he said.

    “We take responsibility, we move forward, and we work hard. That’s the goal. We need to support the referees, the players, and stop always feeling like we’re being wronged.

    “We hope the referee will be fair to both teams tomorrow, as he has been since the start of the competition,” the coach added.

  • Eritrea set for international comeback with AFCON 2027 Prelims 

    Eritrea set for international comeback with AFCON 2027 Prelims 

    Eritrea is set to play its first football international in more than six years after entering the preliminaries for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations finals, to be played in March.

    The isolated state on ​the Red Sea was drawn on Tuesday to take on Eswatini over two legs in the preliminary round in March, in what would be their first ‌outing since a friendly loss to Sudan in January 2020.

    Eritrea has not participated ‌in any internationals since eschewing the opportunity to compete in World Cup and Cup of Nations qualification after players consistently defected while on away trips.

    Read Also: Chelle hints at tactical shift ahead of Super Eagles’ clash against Morocco

    Eritrea has been ruled by President Isaias Afwerki since gaining independence from Ethiopia in ⁠1993, and human rights groups consistently describe his rule as highly repressive.

    Players and other ‌team members defected after matches or tournaments in Angola in 2007, Kenya in 2009,​Tanzania in 2011, Uganda in 2012, Botswana in 2015, following a World Cup qualifier, and Uganda again in 2019.

    It is estimated that some 80 footballers have defected while playing for the national team abroad, none of them going on to pursue their football careers in exile.

    Eritrea has not allowed teams ‌to travel outside the country since members of its under-20 side fled to Uganda in 2019, but now seems to have had a change of heart.

    Eritrea did, however, enter the last Cup of Nations preliminaries only to ⁠later withdraw.

    If they play in the 2027 qualifiers, it will be the first-ever Cup of Nations where every one of the 54 countries on the continent has competed.

    The bottom 12 teams in the rankings were drawn yesterday  into six knockout round ties, to be played home and away in March, to get the 2027 qualifiers underway.

    The winners will advance to the group stage, along with Africa’s 42 top-ranked teams, to be divided into 12 groups of four teams each.

    The top two in each group then qualify for the finals, except in those groups ⁠where already-qualified co-hosts Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are drawn to play.

    Eritrea ‌has no FIFA ranking because it has not played a fixture within world football’s governing body’s parameters of 48 months.

    2027 Africa Cup of Nations preliminary round draw:

    Djibouti vs. South Sudan

    Chad vs. Burundi

    Somalia vs. Mauritius

    Seychelles vs. Lesotho

    Eritrea vs. Eswatini

    Sao Tome and Principe vs. Ethiopia

    The team ⁠mentioned first plays at home in the first leg. The ties will be played between March 25th and 31st.