The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sports

  • New Boy Akinsanmiro expresses shock over  AFCON call-up

    New Boy Akinsanmiro expresses shock over  AFCON call-up

    • By Inioluwa David

    Newly invited  Pisa Sporting Club midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro has expressed shock over  his  call up by coach Eric Sekou Chelle for the  forthcoming Africa Cup of nations Morocco 2025.

    In an interview  with the NFFTV  from the Super Eagles’ training camp in Cairo,  the  yet to be capped  midfielder  said he could not contain his emotion  after being listed in the 28-man list for the AFCON even as he revealed  some of  career struggles before  arriving at this auspicious stage.

    “When I just see the invitation, like, to be honest,  I called  like someone who is closer to me, then I started crying,” he said. “It has been my dream for so long.”

    Akinsanmiro, who recently achieved his long-held dream of representing Nigeria, shared that the path to the national team was far from straightforward. The video, released by the NFF Channel, captured the midfielder

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    Reflecting on his tumultuous development,  Akinsanmiro admitted there was a point in his life when he lost faith in football as a guaranteed career.

    He continued: “I was like, football is not like something… 100% you will make it from it.

     “I have to like learn a work. So I quit football for some months, years like this. Then I have like, ‘oh, let me learn a barbing work.”

    He  however, credited his father and his two brothers, who both played football when they were younger, for pushing him forward.

    He also recalled  early attempts to be part of the national team set up at both the U-17 and U-20 levels as well as  recovering from an injury that  cut short a previous call-up, adding he  is now at the ready to give his best to the Super Eagles.

  • Hull City coach  laments departure of Semi Ajayi  for AFCON 2025

    Hull City coach  laments departure of Semi Ajayi  for AFCON 2025

    Coach Sergej Jakirovic has admitted that losing Semi Ajayi to the Africa Cup of Nations will be a significant blow to Hull  City even as he challenged other defenders to prove their worth in the absence of the Nigeria international.

    Ajayi is set to be absent for up to a month after linking up with Nigeria following City’s 3–1 victory away at Millwall on Saturday.

    Ajayi  has  now turned  his attention to  the AFCON as the Super Eagles aim to improve on their runner-up finish in 2024 and go all the way in the tournament.

    While representing one’s country at AFCON is a major milestone for African players, the December–January schedule often leaves clubs in the Premier League and Championship short-handed, a situation Hull have faced before.

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    Jakirovic acknowledged the challenge but accepted the reality of international football, noting that AFCON holds the same prestige for African nations as the European Championship does in Europe. He also expressed pride in having a full international in his squad and wished Ajayi success with the Super Eagles.

    In Ajayi’s absence, the Croatian coach has thrown down the gauntlet to the rest of his defensive unit, naming Charlie Hughes, John Egan, Akin Famewo and promising youngster Cathal McCarthy as players who now have a chance to gain valuable minutes and stake a claim in the team.

    Ajayi will also head into the tournament with added motivation after Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualification heartbreak, having lost a play-off final to DR Congo on penalties. Despite missing a crucial spot-kick in that shootout, Jakirovic offered words of encouragement, reminding his defender that taking responsibility is part of the game and urging him to move on and focus on the challenge ahead.

  • AFCON 2025: Recalled Uzoho declares readiness for  Super Eagles

    AFCON 2025: Recalled Uzoho declares readiness for  Super Eagles

    Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho has expressed his readiness to give his best for Nigeria ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

    The Cyprus-based shot-stopper, who recently earned a recall to the national team following consistent performances for Omonia Nicosia, admitted he missed the bond and atmosphere within the Super Eagles camp during his absence.

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    Speaking on his return, Uzoho described the opportunity to represent Nigeria again as a privilege, revealing that his recall brought him immense joy and relief after spending over a year outside the national setup.

    He also expressed confidence in the technical crew and scouting department, insisting that only players deemed ready and capable are invited to the national team.

    The former AFCON silver medallist concluded by reaffirming his commitment to the country, stressing that he remains prepared whenever his services are required.

  • Osimhen, Salah  listed seven-man race for AFCON MVP

    Osimhen, Salah  listed seven-man race for AFCON MVP

    As anticipation builds for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, attention is already turning to the individual stars likely to define the tournament, with seven players emerging as strong contenders for the Most Valuable Player award.

    Leading the list is Egypt captain Mohamed Salah, whose experience, efficiency and match-winning ability continue to make him one of Africa’s most decisive attackers. Entering what could be his final AFCON, Salah remains eager to claim elusive continental glory.

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    Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen is also tipped as a major contender, with his blend of pace, physicality and goal-scoring instinct well-suited to AFCON’s demanding conditions.

    Senegal’s Sadio Mané, a former winner of the award, remains influential with his versatility and big-game experience, while Cameroon’s Bryan Mbeumo offers unpredictability and attacking dynamism.

    Reigning African Player of the Year Ademola Lookman adds further Nigerian representation, alongside Ivorian  midfield general Franck Kessié and Algeria’s  captain Riyad Mahrez.

    With proven pedigree and the ability to deliver decisive moments, the seven players are expected to play pivotal roles as the tournament unfolds.

  • Rivers United  shoot to NPFL top  after  win over Wikki Tourists

    Rivers United  shoot to NPFL top  after  win over Wikki Tourists

    Rivers United have climbed to the summit of the Nigeria Premier Football League following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Wikki Tourists at the Adokie Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt yesterday.

    The rescheduled Matchday 17 encounter saw the Pride of Rivers dethrone former leaders Nasarawa United.

    Knowing that maximum points would take them two clear at the top, Finidi George’s side started with purpose and were rewarded in the 19th  minute when Taofeek Otaniyi struck the decisive goal.

    The slim victory was enough to hand Rivers United top spot with 33 points, strengthening their title credentials as the season gathers momentum.

    Rivers United also boast a game in hand, with an away clash against Barau FC in Kano scheduled for Friday, a fixture that could further consolidate their position at the summit.

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    In Lagos, Ikorodu City missed a golden opportunity to move into second place on the NPFL table after being held to a goalless draw by Katsina United in a rescheduled fixture played at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena also yesterday.

    The Oga Boys dominated proceedings but were unable to break down a resolute Katsina United side that arrived desperate for points with relegation fears looming.

    The result was a sharp contrast to last season’s fixture, which Ikorodu City won emphatically 6-0, highlighting the visitors’ improved resilience.

    Ikorodu City remain third on the log with 29 points, while Katsina United’s battling display earned them a valuable point, leaving them 13th with 22 points as they continue their fight for survival.

  • Niger Delta Games: Prospect of  raising future  stars excite Cross River

    Niger Delta Games: Prospect of  raising future  stars excite Cross River

    Chairman of the Cross River State Sports Commission, Lawrence Itanya, has commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for supporting young sports men and women in the region through the Niger Delta Games.

    Itanya applauded the initiative while receiving the representative of Dunamis Icon Limited, the project consultants, and expressed the state’s readiness to take advantage of the games to identify and groom young athletes.

    “On behalf of his excellency, apostle prince Bassey Edet Otu, and the good people of cross river state, i welcome you to the carnival city of Calabar. we deeply appreciate the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Dunamis Icon for initiating an innovative platform designed to discover, nurture, and project young sporting talents from the Niger Delta Region to the global stage,” Itanya said while receiving Fred Edoreh, the project director who represented the chairman of Dunamis Icon, sir Itiako Ikpokpo (KSM), at the inauguration of the state liaison committee on Monday.

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    preparations for the games has evidently heightened as sporting facilities, including the Olympic-standard swimming pool has been renovated.

    The cross river state liaison committee will be led by Itanya, who will oversee the coordination of the state’s preparations and participation ahead of the Edo 2026 games.

    Members of the committee include Hon. Queen Gladys Igut (Commissioner ), Mrs. Rosemary Usang (Director, Sports Commission), Mr. Ettah Emmanuel O. (Media Coordinator) and Mr. David Enwa (Assistant Stadium Manager).

    speaking during the ceremony, Edoreh thanked the government of Cross River State for the warm reception and support.

    He formally inducted members of the liaison committee and outlined their responsibilities, noting that the committee is to work closely with the Cross River State sports commission to coordinate pre-games activities, including grassroots talent discovery, athlete screening, and logistical planning ahead of the games proper.

    The ancient city of Calabar, widely celebrated as the birthplace of football and several other sports in Nigeria, has once again assumed a prominent position in national sports development as preparations gather momentum for the 2nd  edition of the Niger Delta Games, Edo 2026.

    The inauguration represents a significant milestone in the build-up to what is projected to be one of Nigeria’s biggest and most exciting sporting events.

    The official inauguration at the Olympic-standard swimming pool underscores Cross River State’s commitment to sports excellence and grassroots development, while reaffirming the collective resolve of all stakeholders to ensure a successful outing at the 2nd  Niger Delta Games.

  • Oloyede vows to drub Oladipupo at  GOtv Boxing Night 34

    Oloyede vows to drub Oladipupo at  GOtv Boxing Night 34

    Ahead of their national lightweight bout at GOtv Boxing Night 34, Imole “System” Oloyede has vowed to bush aside Saddam “Baby Boxer” Oladipupo’s inside the first  two rounds.

    While Saddam has predicted an early stoppage, Oloyede believes the confidence is misplaced. The boxer nicknamed “System” believes the bout will be decided over time, as pressure builds and mistakes creep in.

      “Everyone can talk about two rounds,” he said. “But this is a national fight. I have prepared for every minute. When the pace settles and the noise fades, that is when the real work begins.”

    Oloyede added that he is unfazed by predictions and name-calling, framing the bout as a test of composure.  “I don’t rush fights,” he said. “I read them. If Saddam wants to come fast, that is his choice. I will be there from the first bell to the last, and he will understand why they call me System.”

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    Their duel is expected to be one of the night’s most intriguing matchups on a stacked GOtv Boxing Night 34: Jams Festival card that blends elite boxing with live music and on-stage entertainment.

    Also on the lineup is the national super bantamweight title bout between Sodiq “Happy Boy” Adeleke and champion Durotimi “Tiny” Agboola; the international lightweight clash between Nigeria’s Rasheed “ID Buster” Idowu and Ghana’s Nii Offei Dodoo; the national lightweight contest pitting Segun “Odi” Gbobaniyi against Tobiloba “Smiling Assassin” Ijomoni; the light welterweight challenge between Sodiq “Smart Lion” Suleimon and Emmanuel “Ability” Abimbola; and the bantamweight matchup featuring Ezekiel “Touch” Seun versus Toheeb “Full Tank” Hassan.

    GOtv Boxing Night 34 will air live on SS Africa 1 (GOtv Ch. 63, DStv Ch. 207). The event, scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on 26 December at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, is sponsored by GOtv, with support from MultiChoice, ZetaWeb, TheCable and the Lagos State Sports Commission.

  • Kun Khalifat rejects ‘amateur’ tag of players

    Kun Khalifat rejects ‘amateur’ tag of players

    Kun Khalifat FC have officially distanced themselves from comments credited to head coach Emmanuel Osigwe, who reportedly described the club’s players as “amateur” during a post-match interview following their encounter with Abia Warriors.

    In a strongly worded statement, the Owerri-based club clarified that the remarks do not reflect its values, philosophy, or belief in the quality of its players, stressing that every member of the squad is a contracted professional footballer.

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    The club acknowledged the hurt caused by the comments and tendered an apology to players, supporters, and stakeholders, while reaffirming its commitment to excellence, integrity, and mutual respect.

    Kun Khalifat FC praised the dedication, professionalism, and winning mentality consistently shown by its players across competitions and firmly rejected any label suggesting otherwise.

    The club concluded by urging unity, encouraging all concerned to channel frustrations into improved performances on the pitch as they continue building a strong and positive winning culture.

  • IC Marlins wins NNPC-SNEPCo Swimming Tournament in style

    IC Marlins wins NNPC-SNEPCo Swimming Tournament in style

    The Swimming Squad of IC Marlins at the weekend was too hot for other contestants at the annual NNPC-SNEPCo  Swimming competition.

    The swimmers of the school dominated proceeding and finished first with a total of 20 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals.

    Interestingly, the two other schools that followed on the table recorded far less medals as Riverbank won 5 gold, 15 silver and 4 bronze medals while Greensprings won 6 gold, four silver and seven bronze medals.

    It was an interesting year ending event which feat featured over 200 primary and secondary school students from about 10 schools.

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    The chairman of the Swimming section of Ikoyi Club 1938, Akinbulejo Onabolu, said the competition was a huge success in various ways.

     “We recorded very good attendance, the parents and members who witness the event had the opportunity of enjoying quality display from the young ones,” he said.  “It was also a thing of joy that he standard was very high judging from the level of competition. It was a huge fun and I am so happy and it can always get better.

     “We plan to have more tournaments for the young ones who are the future champions   in the New Year.”

  • Lobi Stars Suspend Bala indefinitely  over poor  results

    Lobi Stars Suspend Bala indefinitely  over poor  results

    Lobi Stars have suspended head coach Abubakar Bala Mohammed indefinitely following a disappointing run of results that has dented the club’s hopes of making an immediate return to the Nigeria Premier Football League.

    The decision was taken after the club’s Interim Management Committee held an emergency meeting, where the team’s recent performances were reviewed. Management expressed dissatisfaction with the club’s form, which has fallen short of expectations at this crucial stage of the campaign.

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    Under Abubakar Bala’s guidance, Lobi Stars managed just seven points from a possible 18 in their opening six matches. The club currently sits sixth in an eight-team group, a position considered unacceptable for a side with promotion ambitions.

    As part of the decision, the suspended Technical Adviser has been directed to hand over his duties to the club’s Chief Coach, John Onuh, popularly known as “Abacha,” with immediate effect. Onuh will oversee the team’s affairs while the club evaluates its next steps.

    The development underscores the pressure on Lobi Stars to quickly steady their campaign and revive their promotion push, as the club’s management seeks improved results and a return to winning ways in the coming fixtures.