The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Cameroon

Nigeria, Cameroon matches dominate Google

Nigeria’s 4-0 first leg win over Cameroon in the ongoing World Cup Qualifiers, dominated searches this week on Google.

Google’s spokesman Mr Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade made the announcement in a dispatch to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Lagos.

According to Kola-Ogunlade, this week’s top trending search terms on Google range from sports to celebrity news.

He said that sports-loving Nigerians got excited over the Eagles’ performance against their counterparts in the qualifiers.

The Eagles are now leading their group with 10 points from matches played so far.

“Their 4-0 win over Cameroon on Friday and 1-1 draw by the Lions of Cameroon on Monday has gotten fans, sport experts, coaches and speculators predicting that the Super Eagles might qualify for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

“Excited fans raced to Google search to get more details about upcoming matches for the qualifiers.”

Kola-Ogunlade said that the American professional tennis player, Serena Williams, who was reported to have given birth to a baby girl on Sep. 1 also attracted searches on Google.

He said that the announcement of Serena’s first child with fiancé, Alexis Ohanian, was made by reporter Chris Shepherd via Twitter.

“Though the couple have not officially announced the birth, the tennis star’s fans and celebrity friends have since taken to Google to share their congratulatory messages.”

The Google manager said that concerned Nigerians also searched Google to read more about the distressing news of the North Korea missile test.

“North Korean President Kim Jong-un was pictured during yet another round of nuclear missiles testing over the weekend.

“The images have sparked tension in South Korea, the U.S. and Europe.

“Han Tae Song, the Ambassador of North Korea to the UN, the North Korean Supreme Leader vowed to send more “gift packages” to the U.S.,” said Kola-Ogunlade

The Google image maker said that American singer, songwriter and actress Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, turned 36 on Sept. 4.

“The pop star celebrated her birthday in spectacular fashion by starting an awareness campaign to support hurricane relief efforts in her hometown, Houston.

“Beyoncé, wearing one of the iconic outfits from her “Formation” video, shared images of her friends and family on her website.

“Beneath the images was a message and link asking fans to support the Hurricane Harvey disaster relief efforts.

“While Nigerian Beyhive’s congratulated and commended the singer for the effort, others criticised her, which made Nigerians interested in the debate go to Google to get the full gist.”

Google Trends launched in May, 2006, allows one to see how popular, search terms and its demography have been over time on the search engine.

September 8, 2017
Zambia win puts pressure on Super Eagles

Chipolopolo of Zambia kept up the pressure on Group B leaders, the Super Eagles of Nigeria on Tuesday by beating hosts Algeria 1-0 in Blida to stay firm in their new position.

Zambia had beaten Algeria 3-1 in Lusaka on Saturday to move above Cameroon who were then with two points only from two draws in two games.

Read also: ‘Super Eagles victory a wonderful Sallah gift for Nigeria’

This had set the stage for Zambia to win on Match Day 3 and then Match Day 4 of the ongoing 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers Africa Zone.

Zambia are now second in the group with seven points from four matches, after two wins, one draw and one loss.

Cameroon are in third place with three points from four matches, after three draws and one loss.

Read also: Buhari hails Super Eagles’ victory over Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions

Algeria bring up the rear with one point from four matches, following one draw and three losses.

This situation means Zambia still have a chance to upstage Nigeria, if they can beat the Super Eagles on Oct. 7 in Uyo.

A win means they will be level on 10 points with Nigeria.

Nigeria will then need to beat Algeria away on the final match day on Nov. 6 to win the group.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the group winners will qualify for the World Cup finals.

September 6, 2017
NFF pays Eagles full bonus, prepares for Zambia

The Nigeria Football Federation has opted to pay players and officials of the Super Eagles the full match bonus for Monday’s crunchy 2018 FIFA World Cup encounter against the Lions of Cameroon in Yaounde, even though the tie ended in a draw.

NFF President Amaju Pinnick disclosed this to the team on board the ARIK aircraft that flew the Nigerian delegation back from Yaounde on Tuesday morning.

Excited players and officials applauded as Pinnick insisted it was just reward for a masterclass output by the Nigerian squad over the two legs of the most anticipated fixture of Group B.

“When the draw was made last year, people said ours was the Group of Death. But you have stayed very much alive with scintillating performances and done the nation very proud.”

The Member of CAF Executive Committee also disclosed on Tuesday morning that preparations for next month’s big encounter against the Chipolopolo of Zambia, at which the Super Eagles are highly expected to pick the World Cup ticket, has started in earnest.

“Even before the conclusion of this second match against Cameroon in Yaounde, we had started the arrangements for the match against Zambia. The Chairman of Organizing Committee (NFF 1^st VP, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi) will travel to Uyo this week to see Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State and they will go through the check –list together.

“Nothing will be left to chance. It is a very big match, and the way things have turned out against Cameroon, it is now an even bigger match than the ones we played against Cameroon. There must be no room for error.”

September 5, 2017
Photos: Buhari watching Nigeria-Cameroon World Cup match

President Buhari in his home in Daura Katsina, watching the Return Leg of Nigeria-Cameroon World Cup Qualifier Match in Yaounde Cameroon.

President Buhari watching the Return Leg of Nigeria-Cameroon World Cup Qualifier Match in Yaounde Cameroon from his home in Daura Katsina on 4th Sept 2017.

President Buhari watching the Return Leg of Nigeria-Cameroon World Cup Qualifier Match in Yaounde Cameroon from his home in Daura Katsina on 4th Sept 2017.

September 4, 2017
Preview: Nigeria vs Cameroon

Nigeria’s Super Eagles are set to face the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in the second leg of the 2018 World qualifiers later today (Monday 4 of September) in Yaounde, the Cameroonian capital.

The match is scheduled to commence at 6pm

The first leg played last Friday in Uyo ended with Eagles scoring four goals to nil.

Both teams have met 21 times in the past, with Cameroon winning four times, while Nigeria boasts a massive 11 wins and six games ended in a draw.

The Super Eagles are in good form under Gernot Rohr having won all three played so far in the qualifying round.

Nigeria, Cameroon, Algeria and Zambia are in in the same group for the World cup qualifiers to hold in Russia.

Players to watch:
* Victor Moses (Nigeria) if he gets into his rhythm, he will be unstoppable, and should create most of Nigeria’s scoring chances. He won the man of the match in the first leg

* Christian Mougang Bassogog (Cameroon) named Best Player at AFCON 2017; he is a winger who could trouble Nigeria’s fullbacks.

September 4, 2017
Mikel: We are keen to finish what we started

Mikel John Obi- led Super Eagles arrived Yaounde on Sunday afternoon for Monday’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon.

A statement by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Sunday quoted Mikel as saying that the team was keen on consolidating on Friday’s 4-0 victory over Cameroon in Uyo.

Nigeria achieved its highest win ever over Cameroon with the thumping of the Lions on Friday, but Mikel said he was aware the wounded Lions would want to salvage some pride.

“We are just very keen to finish what we started. We started a job in Uyo and it is time to finish it.

“If we can pick the World Cup ticket by Monday, why wait any longer? We are all very confident because we know our ability and what we are ready to bring to the party.

“We are as hungry, perhaps, even more hungry than they are. It will be a tough affair but we will give our very best to take the three points.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nigeria could become the first African team to earn a slot in Russia as early as Tuesday.

The Eagles will qualify if they defeat the Cameroonians on Monday in Yaounde and Zambia fails to beat Algeria at the Stade Mustapha Tchaker in Blida on Tuesday.

Technical Adviser Gernot Rohr has 23 fit players to select from, with goalkeepers Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Dele Ajiboye and Dele Alampasu.

Also are defenders Uche Agbo, Abdullahi Shehu, Elderson Echiejile, Ola Aina, Leon Balogun, William Ekong, Tyronne Ebuehi and Chidozie Awaziem.

Midfielders Mikel Obi, Ogenyi Onazi, John Ogu, Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo and Mikel Agu, are also in contention for the game.

The forwards include Ahmed Musa, Victor Moses, Odion Ighalo, Moses Simon, Anthony Nwakaeme and Kelechi Iheanacho.

At the Hilton Hotel on Sunday to receive the Nigerian team was Cameroon’s Minister of Sport, Bidoung Mpaktt, who chatted briefly with NFF President Amaju Pinnick.

FIFA has appointed respected Senegalese official Bakary Papa Gassama as the referee for Monday’s encounter.

Gassama is to be assisted by Jean Claude Birumushahu from Burundi (Assistant 1), Marwa Aden Range from Kenya (Assistant 2) and Maudo Jallow from Gambia (Reserve Referee).

Osama Hassan from Sudan will be match Commissioner at the game which will kick off 6 p.m.

September 3, 2017
World Cup Qualifier: Nigerians in S/Africa optimistic of victory in Yaounde

Some Nigerians resident in South Africa are optimistic that the Super Eagles will emerge victorious in the return leg against the Lions of Cameroon in a World Cup Qualifier in Yaounde on Monday.
Nigeria beat Cameroon 4-0 on Friday at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, in the first leg. Nigeria is on top of the group with nine points, having won three matches.
Ikechukwu Anyene, outgoing President of the Nigeria Union, South Africa, said the Eagles had the zeal to win the match in Cameroon.
He told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Durban, Kwazulu Natal Province of South Africa on Saturday that the win in Uyo will galvanize the team to get a good result in Yaounde.
“ The victory over Cameroon in Nigeria will ginger the Eagles to also win the match on Monday. I see the Eagles doing well in the return match. The players are currently in the mood to win and I wish them good luck,” he said.
Joshua Itua, the financial secretary of the union, urged the Eagles to remain focused and determined in their quest to be in Russia.
“ The team has shown character and resilience in their matches. Playing against Cameroon at home will be a tough encounter though.
“The team has good players capable of holding their own, especially against opponents like Cameroon,” he said.
Nwaikwunne Okoyegbobe, public relations officer, Anambra State Associations in South Africa, said the Eagles can win in Cameroon if they re-enact same determination they put up at Uyo on Friday.
“ I see the Eagles emerging victorious on Monday against the Lions of Cameroon. The win on Friday has given them confidence. As things are, Nigeria has the upper hand,” he said.
Eriourolo John, a Johannesburg-based businessman, shared same sentiments with other Nigerians and added that the Eagles should finish the job in Cameroon.
“ It’s going to be a tough match, But, I am hopeful that Nigeria will win at the end of the day. If this is achieved, Nigeria is already sure of Russia 2018,” he said.

September 2, 2017
Dalung lauds Super Eagles for Cameroon’s 4-0 defeat

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Solomon Dalung, has applauded the Super Eagles for their Friday’s massive 4-0 triumph over visiting Indomitable Lions of Cameroon in a 2018 World Cup qualifier in Uyo.

The team will receive N20 million for the four goals scored following the Federal Government’s promise to reward every strike with N5 million during a pep talk before the game.

Dalung thanked the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the team for not letting Nigerians down knowing the importance of qualifying for the World Cup in Russia next year.

“The NFF has been on its toes to ensure that the Super Eagles qualify for the next World Cup.

“You worked very hard for this victory and Nigerians are proud of you for always raising the flag when it matters most.

“We know the consequences of not being at the World Cup in Russia in 2018,’’ the minister said in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Nneka Ikem-Anibeze.

“We determine the pulse of African sports and set the tune and agenda for Africa in global sports, so, it is very key and critical to us.

“Moreover, the absence of Nigeria at any international competition always denies the world of the pattern, style and tradition of the Nigerian variety of football.

“So, we will be going to Russia with another different pattern and style of football.’’

The minister called on football stakeholders and Nigerians to continue to support the players with their prayers and objective criticisms.

“The Federal Government will continue to support our players because they have been making so many sacrifices for the country.

“There is nothing we can do to compensate them for what they have done except to continue to appreciate and celebrate them in this critical journey to Russia,’’ the statement said.

Nigeria now top Group B with 9 points and will face Cameroon again on Monday at the Stade Omnispirts Ahmadu Ahidjo in Yaoundé at 6 p.m.

September 2, 2017
Nigerians in S/Africa hail Super Eagles’ defeat of Cameroon

Some Nigerians in South Africa have hailed the Super Eagles for their 4-0 win against Cameroon in a 2018 World Cup qualifier.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that with the victory, Nigeria still leads its group with nine points having won all three matches played.

Adetola Olubajo, Secretary-General of Nigeria Union South Africa, said the Eagles had done Nigerians in South Africa proud.

“ With this victory, I can smell Russia. They still need to work harder to win out remaining matches.

“ The team should remain focused and I am optimistic that with hard work and dedication, the Eagles will qualify,” he said.

Ifeyinwa Obi-Emedo, Secretary of Nigerian Women Association, South Africa, said she was overwhelmed with joy with the win.

“Each time the Eagles play so well, its like another decade has been added to my life.

“ The Eagles should keep it up, forward ever, backward never,” she said.

Collins Mgbo, Secretary of the Union in Limpopo Province, said the win had rekindled the hope and aspiration of Nigerians in the team.

“We urge them to continue this way up to the finals in Russia in 2018. I am optimistic Nigeria will qualify,” he said.

Ale Olorunfemi Joseph, a Nigerian resident in Pretoria, expressed joy with the Eagles victory over the defending African champions, Cameroon.

“ I also commend the President of Nigeria Football Federation, (NFF), Amaju Pinnick for working hard to ensure the victory of the team and eventual qualification for the World Cup.

Michael Evah, who lives in Johannesburg, praised the Eagles for giving Nigerians joy and hope with the victory.

“The Super Eagles have shown zeal and purpose with this victory. I urge them to continue and qualify for the World Cup. I wish the team good luck in their subsequent engagements in the qualifiers.

Ikele Odefa, a Johannesburg based businessman, said the Eagles had rekindled hope and put smiles on the faces of Nigerians, especially those living in South Africa.

“I believe that we have the team to qualify for the World Cup. The team should remain focused and continue with same determination,” he said.

September 1, 2017
Cameroonian coach : Lions are more experienced than Super Eagles

The Cameroonian coach, Mr. Hugo Broos, say the Indomitable Lions, having played at the Confederation Cup in Russia, is more experienced than the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

Broos said this on Thursday in Uyo at a pre-match news conference ahead of FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifying match between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and Indomitable Lions of Cameroon on Friday.

The coach said that the Indomitable Lions, apart from being African champions, had played against difficult national teams of Chile, Germany, and Australia in the Confederation cup.

“We are four points behind Nigeria and we know that if we lose, we are finished. We will play a very good game even in depression.

“Everybody knows that tomorrow’s result and that of Monday are very important, I’m not afraid,” Broos said.

He said that he was alright with the weather in Uyo and would play to win the match.

The Ccameroonian team captain, Benjamin Moukandjo, said that the team was focused and had prepared hard for the match.

Moukandjo corroborated his coach’s perception that Friday’s match with Nigeria would be tough.

“I know tomorrow’s game is important. If we win tomorrow’s game, we shall keep the hope for Russia alive,” the captain said.

He said that his team was ready for the Super Eagles.

September 1, 2017