The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • AFCON 16th Bassey, Chukwueze tip Super  Eagles to fly over Mambas

    AFCON 16th Bassey, Chukwueze tip Super  Eagles to fly over Mambas

    Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey and winger Samuel Chukwueze have both combined caution with confidence as Nigeria brace for tonight’s AFCON 2025 Round of 16 clash in Fez  against the Mambas of Mozambique.’

    Bassey, who anchors the defence for both club and country, warned against complacency, stressing that no team can be taken for granted at this stage of the tournament.

    “We cannot underestimate any team. Ten men Mali beat Tunisia with a complete side,” the Fulham centre-back said, adding that despite Nigeria’s star-studded squad, focus remains internal. “Yes, on paper we have all the big names but we are just focused on ourselves and sticking to the game plan.

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     “The objective is to keep a clean sheet. We must pay attention to details and improve in defence, not conceding some of the type of goals we have conceded,” Bassey noted.

    He further praised the attackers for their contribution off the ball, saying, “The defence starts from the attack and they have been doing an amazing job. It must be a collective effort.”

    On his part, Chukwueze expressed calm assurance within the camp, insisting the team is mentally and physically ready for the knockout challenge.

     “We are very calm. We know where we are coming from and we are ready to face any team,” he said.

    The Fulham forward concluded by reaffirming the squad’s commitment and hunger to progress further in the competition.

    “We are ready to give everything because the boys are set,” Chukwueze added.

  • Onyemaechi reveals secrets of AFCON form

    Onyemaechi reveals secrets of AFCON form

    Super Eagles defender Bruno Onyemaechi has revealed how patience and hard lessons from past disappointments have reshaped his mentality and approach to national team duty, as he continues to enjoy a more prominent role at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.

    Reflecting on his experience during the last AFCON cycle, the 28-year-old admitted he was eager for opportunities that never came under former coach José Peseiro.

     “You know, when a coach gives you the opportunity, you need to take it. I remember the last AFCON — I was begging for the opportunity but Peseiro did not give me,” Onyemaechi said.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Egypt friendly in doubt as NFF shift camp to Morocco

    The left-back explained that those setbacks taught him the value of patience and constant readiness, lessons he now carries into every national team call-up. “So right now, I’ve learned from experience to be ready whenever they call you. That is the most important thing,” he added.

    Onyemaechi concluded by giving thanks for his current run in the team, noting that the experience has strengthened his mind-set.

    “I give God all the glory for this moment,” he said. He has since become a trusted figure in the Super Eagles setup at AFCON 2025, earning regular involvement and increased confidence from the current technical crew.

  • We will play Nigeria without fear, says Mambas’ coach

    We will play Nigeria without fear, says Mambas’ coach

    Mozambique’s tactician Chiquinho Conde has admitted  his wards face a big task  when they clash with  Nigeria  today at the on-going  2025 Africa Cup of Nations, adding the Mambas   will confront the Super Eagles without fear.

    While Nigeria will be looking to boost their bid to win a fourth continental title,  Mozambique will be aiming for their first  win over the West African side, with the kick-off set at 8:00 pm Nigerian time.

    The Round of 16 match is poised to be played at the Fez Stadium in Fez, which is a city in northern inland Morocco and the capital of the Fez-Meknes administrative region.

    Mozambique were inconsistent in the group stage, having lost 2-1 to Cameroon on December 31 and it was their second defeat in their last three matches across all competitions, including a famous win over Gabon.

    The Mambas managed to advance to the knockout phase for the first time after collecting three points from three games in Group C, progressing as one of the four best third-placed teams and they are hoping to create more history in Morocco.

    ” As a team, we know we will face the best the further we go in the tournament,” Conde said as per African Football . “We can’t say we are happy to face Nigeria because a win would have taken us away from that path or maybe if we finished second or third. Nigeria is a strong team and no one will want to play against them.

    Read Also: NFF Management, Staff stage walk against corruption

    “But it’s the task that we have at hand and we will approach the game like the way we do against the top teams in Africa. Show them respect but play without fear.”

    Nigeria and Mozambique have met five times across all competitions since their maiden meeting in August 1999.The Super Eagles boast an unbeaten record against the Mambas, having won four matches and drawn one.

    The last meeting between the two teams ended in a 3-2 win in favour of Nigeria in an international friendly match played at the Estádio Municipal de Albufeira in Albufeira, Portugal, in October 2023.

    The winner between Nigeria and Mozambique will take on either Algeria or DR Congo in the quarter-finals on January 10.

  • Super Eagles offered N14 Million per goal against Mozambique

    Super Eagles offered N14 Million per goal against Mozambique

    Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been promised a $10,000 (approximately ₦14 million) bonus for every goal scored in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Round of 16 encounter against Mozambique.

    According to BSNSports, the incentive, provided by a Nigerian business mogul and team partner, applies to Monday’s knockout fixture at the Fez Stadium in Morocco. The Super Eagles have been in prolific form, scoring eight goals across their three Group C matches in the tournament’s first round.

    The same partner had earlier rewarded the team with $5,000 per goal during the group stage, a bonus structure that has now been doubled for the knockout phase.

    Read Also: NFF Management, Staff stage walk against corruption

    Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, confirmed the development while addressing journalists in Rabat.

     “We have fully mobilized the Super Eagles to succeed in this tournament,” Dikko said. “On the part of the Federal Government, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the AFCON Intervention Fund on November 14. In addition, our partners and sponsors paid $5,000 per goal in the group stage and have now committed $10,000 per goal for the Round of 16. The incentives will continue to improve as the tournament progresses.”

  • AFCON 16th Round: ANFASSC backs  Super Eagles against Mambas

    AFCON 16th Round: ANFASSC backs  Super Eagles against Mambas

    The Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC) has urged  Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora to rally behind the Super Eagles as they prepare for their crucial Round of 16 encounter against Mozambique today  at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco.

    Following an impressive group stage campaign that saw Nigeria secure maximum points, the Super Eagles have demonstrated quality, discipline and a strong winning mentality en route the decisive  knockout phase.

    Ahead of today’s encounter, ANFASSC has commended  the players, technical crew and support staff for their commitment, unity and professionalism so far. Their performances have lifted the spirits of Nigerians everywhere and reaffirmed the belief in the team’s ability to compete at the highest level. As the Round of 16 approaches, ANFASSC encourages the Super Eagles to remain grounded, hungry and fully focused on the task ahead.

    Read Also: NFF issues AFCON 2025 final ultimatum to Chelle

     “Our members on the ground in Morocco are fully mobilised, organised, and ready to provide responsible, vibrant, and unwavering support from the stands. Across Nigeria and around the world, supporters continue to stand firmly behind the team with prayers, encouragement and national pride. This collective backing remains a powerful source of motivation for the players as they take to the pitch,” the club said.“As a supporters’ club committed to unity, positivity and the promotion of Nigerian sports, ANFASSC reaffirms its total support for the Super Eagles.

    “We believe in the team’s strength, character and determination; and we remain confident as Nigeria steps into this important stage of the tournament.”

  • Excitement as fourth Egbin Power’s football tournament  ends

    Excitement as fourth Egbin Power’s football tournament  ends

    By Inioluwa David

    Following the conclusion of the fourth edition of its annual football tournament, the Egbin Power Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth through its Personal Corporate Social Responsibility (PCSR) initiatives, designed to deepen social cohesion, empower young people and strengthen relationships across its host communities.

    The final of the tournament, held at the Egbin Power Sports Field, saw Alanu-Omo FC edge Dragon Ipakan FC with a 1–0 victory in a closely contested encounter, capping weeks of spirited participation marked by discipline, camaraderie and  sportsmanship.

    Speaking on the significance of the programme, Felix Ofulue, Head of Corporate Communications & Branding at Egbin Power, described the initiative as a strategic investment in people and communities.

    “At Egbin Power, we are deeply passionate about initiatives that bring people together and create lasting value. This programme has grown into a platform for nurturing talent, engaging young people constructively, and strengthening bonds across communities. Beyond recreation, it instils critical life skills such as teamwork, leadership, discipline, and resilience, qualities that are essential for personal growth and societal progress,” Ofulue said.

    He added that the objective is to evolve the initiative into a unifying force that strengthens relationships across communities while reinforcing Egbin Power’s brand as a responsible and people-centred organisation.

    Captain of the winning team, Alanu-Omo FC, Samad Ojikutu, expressed appreciation to Egbin Power for its sustained commitment to youth empowerment.

    Read Also: Nigeria, Egypt friendly in doubt as NFF shift camp to Morocco

    “We commend Egbin Power for consistently creating opportunities for young people in the host communities. This is a programme we always look forward to. Winning is exciting, but what matters most is the unity we experience as a team and as a community. It reminds us that we can achieve so much more when we work together,” he said.

    From the opening fixtures to the final match, the programme featured 16 teams drawn from the host communities, with participants displaying not only skill and competitiveness but also camaraderie and respect for fair play—reinforcing the programme’s positive social impact over the years.

     At the end of the competition, Alanu-Omo FC emerged champions and received a cash prize of ₦1million, while the runners-up and third-place teams received ₦700,000 and ₦500,000 respectively.

    The event also attracted notable stakeholders, who commended Egbin Power for creating a credible platform that promotes youth development. Community leader and retired Grade 1 referee, Prince Samson Ekundayo, described the initiative as impactful and timely.

    “Programmes like this are critical for community development. They provide young people with opportunities to showcase their talents, while also learning the values of cooperation, discipline, and respect,” he noted.

  • Kun Khalifat boss bids emotional farewell to Ezeonye, two others

    Kun Khalifat boss bids emotional farewell to Ezeonye, two others

    Kun Khalifat FC President and CEO, Michael Chukwudi Amaefula, has paid glowing tribute to the club’s departing attacker, Henry Ezeonye and two others, describing them as a cornerstone of the club’s growth and success.

    Speaking on behalf of the entire Kun Khalifat FC family,

    Amaefula expressed deep appreciation for Ezeonye’s unwavering dedication, passion and commitment to the Imo State-based club.

    Amaefula noted that Ezeonye was part of the club’s journey from its formative years, stressing that his impact on the team was both profound and lasting. The forward played a pivotal role in the club’s historic promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), a feat the president said would remain permanently etched in the club’s history.

    Beyond his on-field exploits, Ezeonye was praised for his leadership qualities and influence within the dressing room. According to the Kun Khalifat president, the attacker was more than just a player, serving as a mentor, leader and dependable friend to many within the squad, thereby embodying the true spirit of the club.

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    He  also paid glowing tributes to the duo of Ebuka Nwokorie and Uche Moses, celebrating their immense contributions and lasting impact on the club’s remarkable journey.

    In a heartfelt message released on behalf of the KKFC family, the club expressed pride, gratitude and deep appreciation as both players move on to new chapters in their careers.

    Nwokorie was hailed as more than just a player, but the heartbeat and rhythm of Kun Khalifat FC’s midfield. Renowned for his intelligence, artistry and authority in the middle of the park, Ebuka’s pinpoint passes, timely tackles, decisive assists and memorable goals defined an era for the club.

    His influence was central to KKFC’s historic promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League and his subsequent Premier League debut, milestones that will forever be etched in the club’s history.

    The club also acknowledged the invaluable service of Uche Moses, praising his dedication, discipline, passion and exemplary team spirit. Uche’s consistent work ethic and commitment were described as instrumental to the team’s progress, with his growth and professionalism standing as a shining example to teammates and supporters alike throughout his time at the club.

    The three players are said to be on the radar of NPFL debutants, Barau FC.

  • ‘Dynamite’ Diaz sends Morocco to AFCON quarter-finals

    ‘Dynamite’ Diaz sends Morocco to AFCON quarter-finals

    Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz maintained his goal-a-game record at the Africa Cup of Nations by scoring to take Morocco into the quarter-finals with a 1-0 victory over Tanzania in Rabat on Sunday.

    Diaz scored once in each of three group matches and his 64th -minute strike against the Tanzanians created history as he became the first Moroccan to find the net in four consecutive AFCON matches.

    The goal came after Morocco squandered numerous scoring chances while stretching an unbeaten run in competitive and friendly matches to 23. Their last loss was to South Africa at the 2024 AFCON.

    Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi, set up the last-16 winner for Diaz, while making his first start in the tournament after coming off the bench in a victory over Zambia last Monday.

    The 2025 African player of the year suffered a serious ankle injury playing for PSG against Bayern Munich in the Champions League two months ago.

    But Morocco lacked Azzedine Ounahi, who arrived at the stadium using crutches and wearing a medical boot on his left foot. Bilal El Khannouss took his place in midfield.

    Morocco were favourites for several reasons, including home advantage, the backing of close to 70,000 supporters, and lying 101 places above Tanzania in the world rankings.

    However, it was Tanzania who had the first chance in the third minute, but Saimon Msuva misconnected with a Selemani Mwalimu cross.

    Read Also: NFF  suspends many referees to protect game integrity

    Morocco had the ball in the net after 15 minutes as Ismael Saibari nodded a Abdessamad Ezzalzouli free-kick past goalkeeper Hussein Masaranga but the assistant referee immediately raised his flag for offside and a VAR review confirmed that the PSV striker had strayed too far forward.

    Ayoub El Kaabi was the next Moroccan to come close, heading over before being injured in a collision with Masaranga. Both players resumed after treatment.

    A Diaz shot was too high from the edge of the box and El Kaabi headed wide as the host nation continued their pursuit of the opening goal, but the first half ended goalless.

    In a lively start to the second period, Ezzalzouli and El Kaabi headed wide then, in a rare Tanzanian raid, Feisal ‘Fei Toto’ Salum fired over with only goalkeeper Yassine Bounou to beat.

    As Moroccan pressure mounted, Hakimi rifled a free-kick against the crossbar from just outside the box on the hour mark.

    A goal seemed inevitable given the relentless pressure from the host nation, and it came thanks to Hakimi and Diaz.

    The full-back passed to the forward, who beat Masaranga at his near post with an angled shot from close range.

  • Tyson Fury comes out of retirement again

    Tyson Fury comes out of retirement again

    Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury  has announced he will return to boxing in 2026.

    Fury has not fought since losing to Oleksandr Usyk in a bout for three of the four major world titles in December 2024.

    But the 37-year-old British star posted on Instagram on Sunday: “2026 is that year. Return of the mac.

     “Been away for a while but I’m back now, 37 years old and still punching. Nothing better to do than punch men in the face and get paid for it.”

    Fury also said he was retiring from the sport after beating Dillian Whyte in April 2022, only to return later in the year.

    Fury’s history of retirement followed by U-turns meant few believed his most recent claim to end a career that had brought 34 wins in 37 contests.

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    He was incensed at the judges’ decisions in a pair of defeats by Usyk, the only boxer to beat Fury, who said in last year’s retirement message: “I’m going to end with this: Dick Turpin wore a mask.”

    The self-styled “Gypsy King” fuelled speculation of another comeback over the festive period by posting several clips on his social media feeds of himself in training.

    Despite insisting he had bowed out of the sport, Fury has been repeatedly linked with a long-awaited all-British bout against Anthony Joshua, another former two-time world heavyweight champion.

    The pair agreed to a fight in August 2021 when they held all the major world titles between them, but that was scuppered when Fury was ordered to take on Deontay Wilder for a third time by an arbitration hearing.

    Plans were in the pipeline for Joshua and Fury to have tune-ups in the early part of this year before finally facing off against each other, either in late summer or towards the back end of 2026.

    However, the car crash in Nigeria  last Monday which left Joshua injured and led to the deaths of two close friends and team members has likely put boxing on the back burner for the 36-year-old.

    If Joshua is unavailable, Fury could seek a trilogy fight against WBC, WBA and IBF titlist Usyk or a contest with WBO champion Fabio Wardley.

    A win over either would see Fury join Muhammad Ali as a three-time world heavyweight champion.

  • Cameroon send South Africa packing  from  AFCON 2025

    Cameroon send South Africa packing  from  AFCON 2025

    Goals either side of half-time by Junior Tchamadeu and Christian Kofane took Cameroon through to the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals at South Africa’s expense last night as the Indomitable Lions edged their last-16 clash 2-1.

    Tchamadeu opened the scoring in the 34th   minute at Al Medina Stadium in Rabat and teenage Bayer Leverkusen forward Kofane headed in the crucial second goal two minutes after half-time.

    A late rally from South Africa saw Evidence Makgopa pull one back, but it is Cameroon who go through, and the five-time champions now play hosts Morocco in a heavyweight quarter-final on Friday.

    They can go into that match in relaxed mood, knowing all the pressure is on Morocco as they look to win a first AFCON title in 50 years in front of their home support.

    For Cameroon, reaching the last eight means their AFCON is already a success after a chaotic build-up in which football federation president and Indomitable Lions legend Samuel Eto’o sacked coach Marc Brys, replacing him with David Pagou.

    The new coach got the better of South Africa’s Hugo Broos, who had promised to show no mercy to Cameroon nine years after leading them to their last continental crown at the Cup of Nations in Gabon.

    There will be major disappointment for Bafana Bafana, who finished third at the last AFCON two years ago in Cote d’Ivoire, but they can console themselves by turning their attentions towards the upcoming World Cup.

    Yet South Africa had chances to take an early lead, with Relebohile Mofokeng squandering a golden opportunity inside seven minutes.

    Cameroon defender Che Malone failed to deal with a simple ball forward to leave Mofokeng in on goal, but the Orlando Pirates forward blazed over.

    Lyle Foster then had the ball in the net only to be denied by the offside flag, and instead Cameroon went in front just after the half-hour mark.

    When the South African defence could only partially clear a corner, the ball fell to Carlos Baleba on the edge of the area.

    Read Also: Mikel berates  NFF on Super Eagles’ preps for AFCON 2025

    He took a touch and tried a shot which was deflected into the path of Tchamadeu and the London-born full-back with Stoke City rolled home from close range.

    That goal – confirmed after a long VAR check – was celebrated by the Cameroonian fans who made up the majority of the 14,127 crowd, with two-time AFCON winner as a player Eto’o among those in attendance.

    South Africa would have been hoping for a strong start to the second half but instead Cameroon scored again within two minutes of the restart.

    Substitute Mahamadou Nagida crossed from the left and Kofane headed in his second goal of the tournament so far.

    Cameroon goalkeeper Devis Epassy then made good saves from Samukele Kabini and from a Teboho Mokoena free-kick before Makgopa turned in a low cross by fellow substitute Aubrey Modiba on 88 minutes.

    That set up a grandstand finish, but Cameroon nervously held on.