The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • Aina set for long-awaited forest return against Aston Villa

    Aina set for long-awaited forest return against Aston Villa

    Super Eagles defender Ola Aina could make his long-awaited return to senior football tomorrow  when Nottingham Forest visit Aston Villa in a Premier League clash at Villa Park.

    The Nigerian fullback has not featured for Forest’s first team since August after suffering a hamstring injury that ruled him out of action for several months. The setback also led to his removal from the club’s Premier League and Europa League squads in September, effectively delaying his comeback until the January registration window.

    Despite returning to full training weeks ago, Aina remained ineligible for selection until recently. To regain match fitness, the versatile defender featured twice for Nottingham Forest’s B team, logging a combined 153 minutes in games against Wolves U21s and Millwall U21s.

    Read Also: Super Eagles skip New Year Holiday to prepare for knockout tie

    Those appearances have now paved the way for a potential first-team recall, with Forest manager Sean Dyche confirming that Aina is once again available for selection following the reopening of the registration window.

    “Ola comes back into the group now, which is good,” Dyche said on Thursday. “He’s in contention and back in the squad. He’s got a lot of miles on the clock because he couldn’t come back into the squad before January anyway.”

    Dyche added that the defender has fully recovered from injury and is physically ready, raising hopes of Aina’s first senior outing in months as Forest look to bolster their defensive options.

  • Uchenna Kanu returns to Mexico with  Cruz Azul’s women

    Uchenna Kanu returns to Mexico with  Cruz Azul’s women

    Super Falcons forward, Uchenna Kanu, has completed a return to the Mexican Liga MX Femenil after sealing a move to Cruz Azul Women.

    The Nigerian striker’s signing further strengthens the growing Nigerian presence in the Mexican women’s top flight, where several Super Falcons stars have already established themselves.

    Her arrival at Cruz Azul adds to the list of Nigerian players currently plying their trade in the league, including Osinachi Ohale and Chinwendu Ihezuo, who both feature for C.F. Pachuca Women.

    Read Also: 16th Round: Super Eagles to face Mambas of Mozambique

    Kanu is no stranger to Mexican football, having previously featured in the Liga MX Femenil before embarking on stints across Europe and North America.

    The prolific forward boasts an impressive career journey, having played for Pensacola FC Women, Sevilla FC Women, Linköping FC, Tigres UANL Women, and Racing Louisville FC.

    With her experience and goal-scoring pedigree, Kanu is expected to play a key role for Cruz Azul Women as they look to strengthen their squad and compete more strongly in the Mexican league.

  • Youth Empowerment:  Ododo, Yaya laud  DAM Foundation Basketball Championship

    Youth Empowerment:  Ododo, Yaya laud  DAM Foundation Basketball Championship

    Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, and his immediate predecessor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, have commended the DAM Foundation for successfully hosting the DAM Foundation Basketball Championship, describing the initiative as a significant platform for youth empowerment, grassroots talent development, and social cohesion in Kogi Central.

    The championship, held in Okene on Tuesday attracted widespread public interest and blended competitive sports with entertainment and cultural expression.

    Performances by leading Nigerian music stars, including Davido, Odumodublvck, Ice Prince, and Cubana Chief Priest, drew large crowds, while indigenous Ebira artistes showcased the state’s cultural heritage.

    Organisers said the tournament was conceived as a high-impact grassroots sports programme aimed at identifying young talents, fostering unity, and promoting community development through sports. Observers noted that the event reinforced the role of athletics as a catalyst for youth engagement and social integration.

    Following a series of competitive matches featuring teams from local government areas and surrounding regions, the Okene Basketball Team emerged champions after defeating the Adavi Basketball Team in a closely contested final.

    In what organisers described as a milestone for grassroots sports in the state, the winning team received a cash prize of $15,000—one of the highest rewards for a regional basketball competition in Kogi State and a notable benchmark in Nigeria’s local sports scene.

    All matches were played at the newly constructed Okene Civic Centre, which was officially commissioned by Governor Ododo during the championship.

    Read Also: Super Eagles skip New Year Holiday to prepare for knockout tie

    The modern facility provided a professional setting that enhanced the overall quality and profile of the tournament.

    Governor Ododo praised the founder of the DAM Foundation, Dr. Abdullahi Mustapha—who also serves as Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria – for his commitment to youth development.

    The governor announced a ₦50 million donation in support of the initiative, describing it as aligned with his administration’s focus on youth empowerment and inclusive development in Kogi Central.

    Former Governor Yahaya Bello also applauded the organisers, athletes, and residents of Kogi Central, noting that sustained collaboration between successive administrations had contributed to peace and stability in the state.

    In his remarks, Dr. Mustapha expressed appreciation to both leaders for their support, urged participating athletes to remain ambassadors of unity, and pledged that future editions of the championship would be expanded to deliver greater social and economic impact.

  • NVBF unveils  busy 2026 calendar to revive volleyball

    NVBF unveils  busy 2026 calendar to revive volleyball

    The Nigeria Volleyball Federation (NVBF) has announced plans to host a series of major competitions in early 2026 as part of a broader strategy to revive and reposition the sport across the country.

    President of the federation, Engr. Musa Nimrod, disclosed that the President’s Super Cup will be held in January 2026, followed by the President’s Beach Cup in February. He made the announcement in Abuja during the 2025 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Nigeria Olympic Committee and Commonwealth Games Nigeria (NOC/CGN).

    Reflecting on the federation’s progress, Nimrod acknowledged that the journey has come with challenges but insisted that meaningful strides are being made. “Challenges will always come and go,” he said. “What matters is that we are laying a solid foundation. Volleyball in Nigeria is coming back to life, and 2026 will be full of activities.”

    Read Also: 16th Round: Super Eagles to face Mambas of Mozambique

    He explained that Nigerian volleyball suffered developmental setbacks between 2020 and 2021, creating gaps in the growth pipeline. The current board, he noted, has responded by prioritising regular competitions, improved organisation, and renewed grassroots engagement.

    Nimrod revealed that the Super Club Championship is scheduled for late January 2026, while the President’s Club Championship will take place in Kaduna in February, with preparations already underway by the federation’s technical committee.

    Despite financial and logistical constraints, he commended members of the NVBF board for their commitment, stressing that their collective efforts are beginning to yield results. He cited the recent gold medal won in Angola by Nigerian female volleyball players Pamela and Joy as evidence of renewed competitiveness.

    Looking ahead, the NVBF President said preparations are intensifying for international competitions, including events in Senegal, with the long-term goal of qualifying Nigeria for the Olympic Games. He also emphasised volleyball’s role in youth development and advocacy, pledging to reintroduce the sport widely in schools and communities.

    “Volleyball is not just about competition; it is also an advocacy sport,” Nimrod said. “There was a time people paid to watch volleyball in Lagos, and we are determined to bring those days back.”

  • Barau orders backroom staff to reapply in sweeping restructuring drive

    Barau orders backroom staff to reapply in sweeping restructuring drive

    Barau Football Club has directed all its backroom staff to vacate their positions and reapply, as the club intensifies a far-reaching restructuring exercise ahead of the new phase of the season.

    The directive, contained in an internal circular issued on Wednesday, January 1, 2026, instructed all affected staff to comply without exception, stressing that the decision forms part of management’s efforts to reposition the club for improved performance.

    According to the circular signed by the club’s management, the move is aimed at reviewing the effectiveness of the technical and support departments, with a view to retaining only personnel capable of meeting the club’s renewed targets and professional standards.

    Read Also: Super Eagles skip New Year Holiday to prepare for knockout tie

    The decision comes barely two days after Barau FC asked its head coach, Ladan Isa Bosso, to step aside from his role following a disappointing run of results that fell short of expectations.

    In a related development, the club has also released 18 players from its squad, citing low productivity and the need to refresh the team with more competitive options as part of the ongoing overhaul.

    With these decisive steps, Barau FC management has signalled a no-nonsense approach to rebuilding the club, making it clear that future appointments—both on and off the pitch—will be based strictly on merit, performance and alignment with the club’s long-term vision.

  • NPFL: Remo Stars set for homecoming with Ikorodu City

    NPFL: Remo Stars set for homecoming with Ikorodu City

    Remo Stars will finally return to their traditional home ground in Ikenne as the second stanza of the 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season gets underway.

    The Sky Blue Stars were forced to play all their home fixtures away from Ikenne during the first half of the campaign due to extensive renovation works at the Remo Stars Stadium.

    During that period, the club adopted the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta as a temporary venue, beginning from the start of the season in August 2025, while upgrade works were ongoing at their base.

    Read Also: 16th Round: Super Eagles to face Mambas of Mozambique

    However, club chairman, Kunle Soname, has confirmed that the stadium is now fully ready to host competitive matches following the successful completion of renovation works on the pitch.

    Speaking on the development, Soname disclosed that the newly upgraded pitch has passed all necessary inspections, including approval from FIFA officials.

     “Renovation of the pitch has been completed and has been certified even by the FIFA inspection team. Our first game will be against Ikorodu City when the second stanza of the season resumes,” he said.

    Currently sitting 16th on the NPFL table with 22 points from 19 matches, Remo Stars will be hoping that a return to familiar surroundings provides a vital boost as they seek to improve their league position, starting with the clash against Ikorodu City.

  • Scrabble Federation sets bold tone for 2026 as president  calls for unity

    Scrabble Federation sets bold tone for 2026 as president  calls for unity

    The Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF) has kicked off 2026 with a rallying cry for progress, unity and renewed ambition.

    The President of the Federation, Bright Idahosa, has challenged the Scrabble community to build on its resilience and push the game to greater heights.

    In a New Year message, Idahosa hailed players, officials, coaches, sponsors and supporters for standing firm through a demanding year, describing 2025 as a season that “tested our resilience but strengthened our resolve.”

    Read Also: Super Eagles skip New Year Holiday to prepare for knockout tie

    With the board’s backing, the NSF boss made it clear that 2026 will be about structure, talent development and international relevance, as Nigerian Scrabble looks to consolidate its status as one of Africa’s strongest forces in the sport.

    Idahosa urged stakeholders to double down on sportsmanship, discipline, collaboration and innovation, stressing that collective effort remains the key to a stronger federation and a more vibrant Scrabble ecosystem nationwide.

    “We move forward with renewed hope, unity and determination,” he said, expressing confidence that the year ahead will deliver shared victories and lasting progress.

    As the tiles reset for a new season, the Nigerian Scrabble is aiming higher in 2026 and the journey starts together.

  • Government suspends Gabon team, bans Aubameyang

    Government suspends Gabon team, bans Aubameyang

    Gabon’s government has suspended the national team, banned striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and sacked coach Thierry Mouyouma after their exit from the Africa Cup of Nations.

    Sports Minister Simplice-Desire Mamboula announced the measures after the 3-2 defeat by Cote d’Ivoire  on 31 December.

    Gabon finished bottom of their group in Morocco after earlier losses to Cameroon and Mozambique, performances Mamboula described as “disgraceful”.

    He said: “Given the Panthers’ disgraceful performance at the Africa Cup of Nations, the government has decided to dissolve the coaching staff, suspend the national team until further notice, and exclude players Bruno Ecuele Manga and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.”

    Read Also: 16th Round: Super Eagles to face Mambas of Mozambique

    Gabon, whose exit from the tournament was confirmed before the Cote d’Ivoire  game, let slip a two-goal lead in Marrakech.

    Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Aubameyang did not play in the final group game after returning to Marseille for treatment on a thigh injury.

    He said: “I think the team’s problems are much deeper than the individual I am.”

    Mouyouma was in charge for a little over two years.

    It used to be common for African governments to disband national teams after disappointing results, but it has happened less often since FIFA became stricter about government interference.

  • Englishman Rosenior leads  contenders  for Chelsea job

    Englishman Rosenior leads  contenders  for Chelsea job

    Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior is the leading contender for the Chelsea job vacated by Enzo Maresca.

    Former Leicester boss Maresca, 45, left his role as Chelsea head coach on Thursday amid internal tensions with the club’s hierarchy and ownership.

    The process to replace the Italian is under way, and it is understood Englishman Rosenior is the frontrunner, though sources have stressed other candidates are also under consideration.

    Rosenior’s current employers are owned by investment vehicle BlueCo – the consortium set up to purchase Chelsea in 2022.

    The 41-year-old, who previously managed Hull, has significant backing internally at Chelsea and it is understood candidates to replace him at Strasbourg are being considered because of his possible departure.

    Read Also: Super Eagles skip New Year Holiday to prepare for knockout tie

    Porto’s Francesco Farioli has also been mooted as a potential contender.

    Before appointing Maresca in 2024, Chelsea interviewed Marseille manager Roberto de Zerbi, Ipswich counterpart Kieran McKenna, and Thomas Frank, who was then at Brentford but has since moved to Tottenham.

    Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola and Fulham’s Marco Silva have also been linked with the role in the past, though it is unclear if they are now contenders.

    The club will not change their style of play, so it is highly unlikely they would move for Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner.

    It is not yet clear who will lead the side for Sunday’s match against Manchester City, though under-21s head coach Calum McFarlane will take on media duties for a news conference to preview the game on Friday.

    A social media post from goalkeeper Robert Sanchez indicated that Maresca’s backroom team have also departed the club.

  • JUST IN: Maresca leaves Chelsea after poor run of form in December

    JUST IN: Maresca leaves Chelsea after poor run of form in December

    Enzo Maresca has left his role as Chelsea manager with the club sitting fifth in the Premier League.

    The Italian, 45, departs less than six months after winning the Club World Cup at the end of his first season at Stamford Bridge.

    “With key objectives still to play for across four competitions including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track,” Chelsea said.

    The Blues have won just one of their past seven league matches and took only six points from six games in December to fall 15 points behind leaders Arsenal.

    But results are only a small part of the story.

    Maresca, who had a contract due to run to 2029, delighted key figures at Stamford Bridge – including sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, and influential co-owner Behdad Eghbali – by steering Chelsea to a top-four finish and winning the Uefa Conference League and Club World Cup last year.

    Yet success soon turned to sourness in his relationship with the hierarchy.

    Maresca stunned even members of his own staff when – after beating Everton 2-0 for Chelsea‘s solitary Premier League win in December – he said “many people” had made it his “worst 48 hours” since joining the club.

    The former Leicester manager has also switched agents – from the Wasserman agency to Jorge Mendes – and has been talked of as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, which Maresca has dismissed.

    BBC