Ondo House of Assembly Summons ODSFA management over Sunshine banishment

By Isaac Afolabi

The Ondo House of Assembly has summoned the management of the state's football body ODSFA and Sunshine Star FC head coach to explain the reason behind the violence which erupted during League fixture between the club and Lobi Stars.

Speaker of the House Mrs Jumoke Akindele affirmed at a plenary in the floor of the house that they are expected to report on Tuesday 24th November, 2015.

Moving the motion, Chairman House Committee on Sports, Mr Olumide George said there is need for explanation as the state is not known for such ugly display.

Following the incidence, Sunshine Stars were banished to Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos for the remainder of their league matches and were also fined the sum of five million naira.

However, the head coach Kennedy Boboye quit the club after leading the team to a sixth place finish.

Liverpool official statement on the sack of Brendan Rogers

Liverpool has announced the sack of manager, Brendan Rogers.

In a statement released on Sunday, the club confirmed the termination of Rogers' contract to further improve their on-the-pitch performance.

''We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Brendan Rodgers for the significant contribution he has made to the club and express our gratitude for his hard work and commitment.

''All of us have experienced some wonderful moments with Brendan as manager and we are confident he will enjoy a long career in the game.

''Although this has been a difficult decision, we believe it provides us with the best opportunity for success on the pitch. Ambition and winning are at the heart of what we want to bring to Liverpool and we believe this change gives us the best opportunity to deliver it.

''The search for a new manager is underway and we hope to make an appointment in a decisive and timely manner.''

Meanwhile, the process of appointing a new manager is underway.

Oliseh invites Mikel, Echiejile, 22 other for Congo and Cameroun friendlies

Ahead of the friendly matches against Democratic Republic of Congo and Cameroun, Super Eagles head coach Sunday Oliseh has invited 24 players to to prosecute the games.

Source: thenff.com

Among the invitees are Captain Vincent Enyeama, John Obi Mikel, Elderson Echiejile, Godfrey Oboabona and a host of others.

Former junior international defender Abdullahi Shehu gets his first opportunity at senior level, and Moses Simon, who scored against Niger Republic, is also considered, alongside home boys Chima Akas, Austin Oboroakpo, Paul Onobi and Prince Aggrey. There is also room for Watford FC of England striker Odion Ighalo.

THE FULL SQUAD

Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama (Lille OSC, France); Carl Ikeme (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Sunshine Stars); Femi Thomas (Enyimba FC)

Defenders: Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany); Abdullahi Shehu (Uniao da Madeira, Portugal); Elderson Echiejile (AS Monaco, France); Chima Akas (Sharks FC); Godfrey Oboabona (Caykur Rizespor, Turkey); William Troost Ekong (FK Haugesund, Norway); Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa SK, Turkey); Austin Oboroakpo (Abia Warriors)

Midfielders: Ogenyi Onazi (SS Lazio, Italy); Paul Onobi (Sunshine Stars); Obiora Nwankwo (Coimbra FC, Portugal); John Mikel Obi (Chelsea FC, England); Rabiu Ibrahim (AS Trencin, Slovakia)

Forwards: Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Emmanuel Emenike (Al Ain, UAE); Sylvester Igbonu (FC UFA, Russia); Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium); Victor Moses (West Ham United, England); Odion Ighalo (Watford FC, England); Prince Aggrey (Sunshine Stars)

The Eagles take on Congo on October 8 and Cameroun three days later.

Belgium to host Nigeria vs Cameroun friendly

Source: thenff.com

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has confirmed that the Super Eagles will play Cameroon and Congo in friendly affair.

A statement released on NFF's official Twitter handle informed that the Eagles will confront Congo then take on the Indomitable Lions three days later on October 11 in Brussels, Belgium.

Nigeria last faced the Cameroonians in February 2004, in the quarter-final of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia.

Transfer: Manchester United, Chelsea and other busy EPLClubs on Deadline Day

Premier League

Anthony Martial made a move Monaco to Manchester United (£36m)

Chelsea splashed (£2.7m) on Nantes' Papy Djilobodji

Virgil Van Djik switched from Celtic to Southampton (£11.5m)

Ramiro Funes Mori - River Plate to Everton (£9.5m)

Michail Antonio - Nottingham Forest to West Ham (£7m)

Glenn Murray-  Crystal Palace to Bournemouth (£4m)

Nikica Jelavic - Hull City to West Ham (£2m, rising to £3m)

Joleon Lescott moved from West Brom to Aston Villa (£2m)

Regan Poole - Newport County to Manchester United (£100,000 rising to £500,000)

Aaron Lennon - Tottenham to Everton (undisclosed)

Michael Hector - Reading to Chelsea (undisclosed)

Obbi Oulare - Club Brugge to Watford (undisclosed)

Adlene Guediora - Crystal Palace to Watford (undisclosed)

Matija Sarkic - Anderlecht to Aston Villa (undisclosed)

DeAndre Yedlin - Tottenham to Sunderland (season loan)

Victor Ibarbo - Roma to Watford (season loan)

Alex Song - Barcelona to West Ham (season loan)

Victor Moses - Chelsea to West Ham (season loan)

Nathan Dyer - Swansea City to Leicester City (season loan)

Tiago Ilori - Liverpool to Aston Villa (season loan)

Matt Jarvis - West Ham to Norwich City (season loan)

Tomas Andrade - River Plate to Bournemouth (season loan)

Joe Bennett - Aston Villa to Bournemouth (loan until January)

Miguel Layun - Watford to Porto (season loan)

Olivier Kemen - Newcastle to Lyon (undisclosed)

Sam Westley - West Ham to VVV Venlo (season loan)

Dwight Tiendalli - released by Swansea City

Source: Skysports

Coach Sunday Oliseh's 18 Foreign Pros that got People Talking

The likes of John Obi Mikel, Victor Moses and Odion Jude Ighalo have been exempted from the 18-man foreign professionals invited by Super Eagles’ Head Coach Sunday Oliseh for next month’s 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania in Dar es Salaam.

Skipper Vincent Enyeama tops the list that has defenders Godfrey Oboabona, Leon Balogun and Kenneth Omeruo, midfielders Rabiu Ibrahim, Lukman Haruna and Joel Obi, and forwards Ahmed Musa, Emmanuel Emenike and Anthony Ujah.

There are a number of surprises, in line with Oliseh’s earlier pledge to make current form and first –level football key indices for selection to the Super Eagles.

There are goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, midfielder Izunna Ernest Uzochukwu and forwards Emem Eduok, Sylvester Igboun and Moses Simon.

All the 18 players, who will join up with the 23 home boys who arrived camp in Abuja on Monday, are expected in Abuja on Monday, 31st August, 2015 at the latest.

The Super Eagles take on Tanzania in Dar es Salaam on Saturday, September 5.

THE FULL LIST

Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama (Lille OSC, France); Carl Ikeme (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England)

Defenders: Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany); Kingsley Madu (AS Trencin, Slovakia); Godfrey Oboabona (Caykur Rizespor, Turkey); William Troost Ekong (FK Haugesund, Norway); Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa SK, Turkey)

Midfielders: Joel Obi (Torina FC, Italy); Izunna Ernest Uzochukwu (FC Amkar Perm, Russia); Obiora Nwankwo (Coimbra FC, Portugal); Lukman Haruna (Anzhi Machatsjkala, Russia); Rabiu Ibrahim (AS Trencin, Slovakia)

Forwards: Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Emem Eduok (Esperance ST, Tunisia); Emmanuel Emenike (Al Ain, UAE); Anthony Ujah (Werder Bremen, Germany); Sylvester Igboun (FC UFA, Russia); Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium)

Katsina, Abeokuta come alive as Rangers tackle Lobi in Federation Cup Semi Final

Katsina and Abeokuta will come alive when Lobi Stars take on Enugu Rangers while Nassarawa United square out against Akwa United in the semi final of this year’s men’s Federation Cup on 19th August.

Rangers FC trashed El-kanemi 3-0, Lobi edged BJ Foundation 2-1, it was Nassarawa 1-0 over Ifeanyi Ubah FC as Akwa United qualified for the semi final at the expense of Tornadoes Feeders after penalty shoot-out.

In the women’s category Kogi Confluence Queens who sent packing Cup holders Rivers Angels in the quarter finals, will tackle Bayelsa Queens at the Oleh Township Stadium.

Nasarawa Amazons, who decisioned Osun Babes, will take the pitch against Sunshine Queens (victors over FC Robo) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

MEN’S FEDERATION CUP SEMI FINALS

Lobi Stars Vs Enugu Rangers (Karkanda Stadium, Katsina)

Nasarawa United Vs Akwa United (Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta)

WOMEN’S FEDERATION CUP SEMI FINALS

Confluence Queens Vs Bayelsa Queens (Oleh Township Stadium)

Nasarawa Amazons Vs Sunshine Queens (Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu)

CAF competitions get new official names

The Confederation of African Football Executive Committee have renamed six of their continental competitions.

Some of the competition that were renamed are:  African Women’s Championship now (Africa Women Cup of Nations); (African U-23 Championship now (Africa U-23 Cup of Nations); African Youth Championship now (Africa U-20 Cup of Nations).

Others are Africa U-17 Cup of Nations (formerly African U-17 Championship); Africa Beach Soccer Cup of Nations (formerly African Beach Soccer Championship) and Africa Futsal Cup of Nations (formerly African Futsal Championship).

Meanwhile, the draw for the 4th African Nations Championship scheduled for Rwanda between 16 January and 7 February, 2016, will take place in Kigali on November 18.

Nigeria will face Burkina Faso over two legs in October for a place in the championship.

Ifeanyi Ubah FC names Amokachi as Head Coach

Photo Credit: Supportthenpfl.com

Nigeria Professional Football League side, FC Ifeanyi Ubah of Nnewi on Sunday unveiled Daniel Amokachi as their new Technical Adviser/Head Coach.

The event which took place at the Rogenny Sports Stadium Oba had in attendance President/CEO of the club, Dr. Patrick Ifeanyi Ubah, Club Chairman, Chuma Ubah and many other club officials.

According to reports John Obuh will now be promoted as Technical Director and Director of Football,  Amokachi will be Technical Adviser while Ike Shorunmi joins the team as Goalkeeper Trainer.

The English Premier League Preview (Part Two)

Without much ado, we shall examine the chances of Arsenal and Manchester United, respectively, in the concluding part of this preview.

Arsenal

The feeling abounds that this may be Arsenal's season. Arsene Wenger's hoodoo-ending victory in the Community Shield is testament to the idea that it will not be the same old (disappointing) story for the Gunners in 2015/16.

With two consecutive FA Cup triumphs, it appears Wenger's blend of youngsters and a few galacticos is about to pay off with his first Premier League title as Arsenal boss since the 'invincibles' season.

Arsenal's newest galactico- Petr Cech - is a pair of safe hands (this, though, doesn't aim to detract from David Ospina's proficiency). Like David de Gea was to Manchester United last season, the former Chelsea goalie could be worth double points to the Gunners this term. The 33-year-old Czech international's stay at the Emirates could be as successful as Edwin van der Sar's period at Old Trafford after the Dutch joined from Fulham at age 35.

Another comforting boost is that Arsenal have a settled squad and Wenger's quest for cohesion in his team couldn't be closer than it presently is to fruition. If Karim Benzema eventually joins, that would be a jackpot. More so, apart from (injury prone) Jack Wilshere, there are no lenghty injury concerns.

Furthermore, if pre-season matches are anything to go by, then the general fitness level and form of Arsenal's squad suggests they can begin the season as they ended the last- losing only once in their 14 concluding league games.

The concern, though, will be if collectively, Wenger's men have fully developed the winning mentality and character, both of which are requisite in order to avoid wilting off later in the season.

However, expectations are still high and optimism among the Arsenal faithful is ubiquitous.

But isn't there a theory that the Gunners usually disappoint when there is wide-spread confidence they will deliver?

Manchester United

Louis van Gaal's first season in charge of Man. United was fraught with drama. His second season, in which he's confident of silverware, may be more dramatic.

The 64-year-old bemoaned United's lack of creativity in their 1-0 defeat by Chelsea last April. Unsurprisingly, United have been very active in the transfer window so far.

Following United's robust transfer activities, van Gaal's squad seems to be stuffed with players having speed and creativity.

Google Image: Man Utd

I'll be looking forward to the Memphis-Rooney partnership. But more intriguing is the patty-and-condiments-in-a-hamburger-bun midfield that van Gaal's got.

On the one hand, one could immediately wonder if such overcrowded option of players in the middle helps his course towards alleviating the squad imbalance he suffered last season.

However, with United's imminent berth in the group stages of the Champions League- barring a defeat in the hands of Club Brugge - such abundance of versatile talent in midfield may ultimately foster the freshness of the squad for majority of the season.

In addition, avoiding the poor start experienced in the previous campaign will be one of Louis van Gaal's priorities. Anything short of a win in today's lunch time kick-off may lead to some head-scratching and definitely nothing to celebrate on Louis van Gaal's 64th birthday.

In all, Man. United have a title-winning squad, at least, on paper. But has Louis van Gaal discovered his most effective Man. United XI yet?

The Wait is Over!

Yes, the wait is over- the season is all ready here. Ironically, though, it implies we only just started waiting- for who will emerge as champion in May 2016.

While we have our fingers crossed, it's certain we'll be thrilled by the nail-biting moments, blunders, sensational strikes, saves, flicks & tricks, as well as upsets.

On the Spot.

I have a feeling the Premier League trophy is heading for Manchester. Blue or Red? It may be hard to tell.

The caveat, though, is that football is a funny old game. Even the best of pundits can be reduced to amateurs by the bravado of football's unpredictability.

So, do not deride me if by May ending of 2016, the top four places in the Premier League table have no vestige of resemblance to my conjecture below.

1. Manchester City

2. Arsenal

3. Chelsea

4. Manchester United

The English Premier League Preview (Part One)

By Ewomazino Orowor

The 24th season of the Premier League gets underway tomorrow- 76 days after the conclusion of the previous campaign.

From the new official Premier League ball, to heavy transfer activities in some clubs (with astonishing vignetted transfer-related activities in some others), to new kit sponsorship deals, to if "Harry Kane" can match last season's goal scoring form; to which teams will constitute the relegation dog fight; who the Europa League contenders- or would-be avoiders -are and much more, the 2015/2016 season has been replete with talking points long before Man United and Tottenham kick-off.

However, let's  focus on the title-winning chances of the four main contenders for the money-spinning 2015/2016 season in England's topflight division.

Four of the Best
Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Manchester United, who occupied the top four places, respectively, in the table at the end of last season, are the front-runners this term. I expect an almost-there threat from Southampton, Liverpool and Tottenham.

Let's preview the two blue-jersey teams first, leaving the red ones for part two.

Chelsea

The Blues- with ruthless efficiency where necessary -were dominant last season. For all but the second week, Mourinho's men blossomed at the summit of the EPL table. Such was their near-impeccable campaign that many still consider them as the safest bet for the title. But are they really the safest bet?

"Hello! Is Chelsea there?" If the transfer window were to be anthropomorphised, that's probably what we'd be hearing. That's because Chelsea's had a quiet transfer window. Although, they boast a strong first XI, they are light on the bench- they're losing depth. 

In the event of an injury crisis or loss of form (not forgetting their apparent fitness challenges), they haven't got capable replacements for the mitochondria of their squad. Players like brickwall Nemanja Matic, most fouled Premier League player last season and player with the most assist last term- Eden Hazard and Cesc Febregas respectively -do not have their quasi equivalents on the bench.

Upfront, Chelsea have another conundrum! If Diego Costa continues to struggle with his hamstring, how will they get goals? Loic Remy and Radamel Falcao have not proven to be  adequate understudies. While the former may have specious reasons to be a prospect, the latter is- or has become -a risible figure. Falcao has continued where he left off at Old Trafford, thrilling us with his comedic perormances- the Pastor Maldonado of the Premier League. 

The Columbian is also further justifying the superstition behind the Chelsea No. 9 jersey. In the more recent memories, except for Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Hernan Crespo, the likes of Mateja Kezman, Khalid Boulharouz, Steve Sidwell, Franco Di Santo, and Fernando Torres never excelled as Chelsea number 9s. Falcao is a real worry and may be on his way into that uncelebrated list. 

However, there is still some time for Mourinho to do some business in the market for some execllent outfield additions. 

But the real business begins tomorrow with a tricky opponent- Swansea City -at that. Chelsea's result tomorrow- and in the remaining opening round of fixtures -will really matter. Replicating their pre-season form may put the champions under pressure- if they are not under pressure already to dispel the opinions of their pre-season critics.

By and Large, Chelsea have a lot on their hands this term and the food for thought will be that the Premier League title has not been retained by holders  for six years now.

Will the Blues break boundaries or will Champions League priority be an excuse?

Manchester City
Manuel Pellegrini will be eager to expiate last season's mediocre display especially after extending his contract at the Etihad till 2017. Although, they finished as runners-up,  Man City's dispirited second half campaign took them out of contention in the race for the title (a period in which we also witnessed their embarrasing exit from the Champions League). 

Poignant reminders indeed of their disappointing trophyless season. 

This was inevitably due to the half-heartedness of majority of their senior players- except for Joe Hart, Sergio Aguero and a few others. 

This may sound like cheap criticism but a large chunk of Man City's squad apparently lacked the hunger to match the achievements of the preceding title-winning campaign. That has to change this term because a repeat should lead to drastic changes at the Etihad. Pellegrini has to justify the trust he's received to avoid being the most likely starting point of any such drastic changes.

If the squad has the right drive, motivation and consistency, Man City may pose more threat to Chelsea's title defence than any of Arsenal or Man. United. With the arrivals of Raheem Sterling and (especially) Fabian Delph, Man City have further added depth to their squad. 

What's more, here's a stunning Man City EPL sequence:
2011/12 - Champions
2012/13 - Runners-up
2013/14 - Champions
2014/15 - Runners-up
2015/16 - ____?____
Fill in the gap! It's simple arithmetic progression!

Writer: Ewomazino Orowor

NPFL: Pillars back on track as Enyimba maintains top spot

Nigeria Professional Football League champions, Kano Pillars, seem to have bounced to winning ways after recording their second consecutive match since the return of coach Baba Ganaru.

Pillars came from a goal down to beat Heartland 2-1 in Kano on Wednesday in a week 21 encounter.

An own goal from Babangida Hassan in the 22nd minute gifted Heartland the lead before goals from Azeez Shobowale in the 41st minute and Rabiu Ali from the spot in the 80th minute gave the champions the three points.

Table-toppers Enyimba on maintained their lead with a 2-2 draw against Akwa United in Uyo.

The Peoples Elephants had to come back twice to level in a match which was a battle of former players of the home side.

Shooting Stars came from behind to beat Wikki Tourists 2-1 from a Tope Orelope brace. Lobi Stars beat Bayelsa United 3-0, Kwara United beat Dolphins 2-1 and Rangers beat FC Taraba 1-0.

However Sunshine Stars will host Sharks FC in Akure in a tricky affair which may see the Akure Gunners justle for top spot.

You think footballers earn too much $£€¥ ?

Yes. That thing dripping isn't water, it is called sweat.

@Forza_sports shared the image on Instagram.

For me it's #Hardwork #Sweat #EarnBig #Talent and #Grace

'I will never relegate my calling at NFF for Arsenal' - Amaju Pinnick defends self

Nigeria Football Federation President, Amaju Pinnick has explained why he was in England on Sunday after he was spotted at the Wembley Stadium where Arsenal defeated Chelsea to clinch the 2015 Community Shield.

Pinnick who is known to be an Arsenal fan was criticized by some section of Nigerian football lovers for going abroad to follow a foreign league game at the expense of National Team duties.

Nigeria U23 Dream Team and the Super Falcons were on duty in Congo and Banta respectively on Sunday for a spot in the Rio 2016 Olympics.

''Hello all, no doubt I am an Arsenal fan but I will never relegate my calling at NFF for Arsenal, he said in a statement.

''When Arsenal was playing against Manchester some months ago, I was on the road to Ibadan to watch 3SC against Rangers. My vision about my mission in NFF is clear and by God's grace we shall get there.

''I came to London for meetings with a consortium of would be sponsors, some requested to see the head coach.

Aside that, there are lots of global politics going on and if Nigeria must be accorded her pride of place in global football politics, then we must participate at the highest level.

''I appeal for your understanding and prayers, nothing good comes easy, I love you all AMP.''

Meanwhile, Nigeria Dream Team qualified at the expense of Congo while the Super Falcons failed to make it to the Olympics

NPFL: Enyimba go top despite 1-1 draw against Rangers

Enyimba FC of Aba moved into the summit of the Glo Premier League (Nigeria Professional Football League) for the first time this season after forcing southeast neighbours, Rangers, to a 1-1 draw on Sunday.

Pre-match analysis favoured Enyimba to complete the double on Rangers due to their impressive run in the top division this season so far, and the fact that they had made stellar additions to their intimidating squad.

Enyimba coach, Kadiri Ikhana, gave mid-season signing, Musa Najere, his debut in the blue colours of the club while record league goalscorer, Mfon Udoh, returned to the match day squad for the first time since May.

Coach of Rangers, Imama Amapakabo, also surprisingly gave out-of-favour Super Eagles goalkeeper Chigozie Agbim the nod ahead of Itodo Akor in the startlist.

Rangers made the first impression as Onoriode Odah should have given them the lead but Enyimba keeper Femi Thomas went down well to make a one-handed save from a one-on-one situation.

But Odah made amends for his earlier miss by scooping a header over Thomas for the opening goal just nine minutes after kick-off. It was 1-0 to Rangers with Enyimba faithful stunned into silence.

It took the Peoples Elephant 28 minutes to restore parity. A well-planned move by Enyimba around the box freed Markson Ojobo on the right, who squared into the near post for Najere to convert unmarked past Agbim to put the score at 1-1.

That was the much the game produced in terms of goals as the two teams shared the points. Enyimba have now opened a point lead at the top of the league table having earned 37 points while Rangers stay rooted in 10th place with 28 points.

Leaders before match day 20, Sunshine Stars, dropped to second place after suffering a shock one-nil defeat at FC Taraba. Stephen Adah scored from a rebound just before half time after Ibrahim Sanusi's penalty kick struck the woodwork and bounced into play for the striker to tap home.

Another team in the top-four, Wikki, also failed to win by playing out a goalless draw with Heartland. Wikki are now third while Heartland remain in fifth place.

Giwa FC eased past Kwara United by a lone goal in Jos through Charles Henlong's second half goal. The win takes the Jos-based club to fourth position with 34 points.

League defending champions, Kano Pillars, edged Lobi Stars 2-1 to give their new coach, Mohammed Baba Ganaru a welcome win. Rabiu Ali and Shehu Shagari scored for Pillars in the opening 35 minutes before Tony Okpotu netted Lobi's goal three minutes into the second half. Pillars have climbed into seventh place but Lobi have now dropped into the bottom-four.

Shooting Stars held out well at El-Kanemi for 65 minutes before succumbing to Abraham Audu's goal that proved to be the winner for the Maiduguri club.

Two other matches ended in score draws of 1-1. FC Ifeanyiubah held Abia Warriors in a derby while Akwa United had to wait until added time to see Aniekpeno Udoh's goal cancel Bayelsa United's lead.

Source: npfl.ng

Eagles won't take Djibouti and Swaziland for grant, says Oliseh

Google Image: Sunday Oliseh

Super Eagles Coach, Sunday Oliseh has expressed satisfaction with  2018 FIFA World Cup preliminary draw held in St.Petersburg, Russia on Saturday.

Drawn bye from the first round of the African qualifiers, Nigeria begins her campaign for a place at the 2018 finals in Russia in November 2015, away to the winner of the Djibouti vs Swaziland first round playoff.

Speaking with the the federations website (thenff.com), Oliseh gave a number of reasons why he is happy with the draw 

"Of course,I am happy with the draw,"Oliseh stated.

"We are not playing the first round, which is a preliminary round and which we knew before the draw. We will also be playing the first leg of the second round away which means we have an advantage of playing the more crucial return leg at home, in front of our fans".

The coach also warned against complacency, revealing that there are a lot of dangerous teams around that could hurt if taken for granted.

"Djibouti and Swaziland need to be given the respect that they deserve and either of them that we face in the second round will not be underrated. We respect every team and we will battle anyone that emerges with our full strength.

"With the draw now concluded,we can safely say that the race to Russia has officially started. I am optimistic we will run this race very well. We will give it our very best and pray it will be good enough to get us one of the five slots available for Africa," Oliseh concluded.

Dolphins beat First Bank to claim Women's League

Dolphins are champions of the 11th Zenith Bank National Women's Basketball League after beating First Bank 77-72 points.

Details later.

Basketball: Dolphins tackle First Bank in Women's League final

Dolphins and First Bank will today clash in the final of Zenith Women's Basketball League inside the indoor sports hall of National Stadium Lagos.

Both teams were finalists last season and have been unbeaten in the league this term.

To get to the final, Dolphins thrashed IGP Queens 84-49 in the semi-finals, while First Bank beat four-time champions, First Deepwater 68-43.

Be there!

One word for this pic shared by Samuel Etoo

Just One Word: Legends

Manchester United players visit Google Headquarters

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata and a few of his team mates took time out to visit the headquarters of online search engine, Google in San Francisco.

United are currently on a pre-season tour of the states but thought to learn more about the online company.

The Spanish midfielder shared via Instagram, "Thanks for an inspiring afternoon, @google. #dreambig"

United d will play French side Paris Saint Gernan on Saturday in another game as they prepare for the new seaons.

Liverpool signs Aston Villa Striker Christian Benteke

Liverpool have announced the signing of Aston Villa striker Christian Benteke for £32.5m.

The 24 year old Belgian agreed a long-term contract at Anfield and becomes their second most expensive signing.

The Reds recently lost Raheem Sterling who joined Manchester City on an £49m English record fee.

Benteke scored a 49 goals since joining Villa in 2012.

Ifeanyi Ubah, Rangers, others in Federation Cup battle

After the "big boys" have been ousted, the round of 16 matches of this year’s men’s Federation Cup competition will take place across the country on Wednesday 22nd and Thursday 23rd July 2015.

On Wednesday, FC IfeanyiUbah will tackle fellow Premier league side up FC Taraba at the Area 3 Playground in Abuja while same venue will host Kwara United and Enugu Rangers in what may be a crunchy tie.

The other all –top division clash, between Nasarawa United and Abia Warriors, is scheduled for the Oshogbo Township Stadium on Wednesday.

Nigeria National League side Remo Stars of Ogun State, who eliminated champions Enyimba FC will be up against Glo NPFL side, Lobi Stars.

In Makurdi, Heartland FC will battle BJ Foundation from Edo State, which eliminated Sportlight FC of Kaduna in the Round of 32.

Omeruo moves to Turkish club Kasimpasa

Super Eagles defender Keneth Omeruo

has joined Turkish Super Lig side, Kasimpasa on loan.

The 21year old Chelsea defender was on loan at Middlesbrough last season and has now move away 

FIBA: Nigeria U-16 lose to Mali in final

Nigeria's U-16 women’s basketball team were beaten 57-46 by three-time champions Mali in the 2015 FIBA Africa Women U-16 Championship in Madagascar.

The Nigerian went into the final after edging Mozambique 54-51 in the semi final on Saturday.

However, both Nigeria and Mali will represent Africa at the 2017 FIBA Under-17 World Championship.

In the classification games played on Sunday, Angola beat Mozambique 52-48 to claim third spot; hosts Madagascar beat Tunisia 64-57 to win fifth place; while Egypt beat Morocco 61-46 to finish seventh.

Nigeria U-23 Pip Congo in 2-1 but....

Nigeria U-23 also known as Dream Team defeated Congo 2-1 in an African U-23 Championship final round, first leg qualifying match played in Port Harcourt on Sunday.

Junior Ajayi grabbed a brace early in the second half – the first a tap-in after Goalkeeper Chrisopher could not get a good grip of the ball off a pull-out in the 48th minute, and the second in a marvelous team goal that Ajayi finished with a brilliant header from an inviting Daniel Etor cross six minutes later.

However, Samson Siasia’s wards allowed the Congolese get into the game by scoring a goal. 

Siasia’s boys won their two away matches in the qualifying race for the All-Africa Games – for which they have qualified. They pounded Gabon 4-1 in Libreville and defeated Zambia 2-0 in Lusaka, and on the evidence of strength-in-depth, should be understandably confident going to Pointe Noire on August 2.

Messi visits Gabon, lays foundation for new Stadium

Argentina and Barcelona forward Lionel Messi linked was Gabonese president Ali Bongo Ondimba's guest of honour on Saturday to lay the first stone at a future Africa Cup of Nations venue.

Four-time World footballer of the year officially started the building process at the Port-Gentil stadium, which will host Africa Cup of Nations matches in 2017.

The ceremony took place on a wide sandy ground where the stadium will be built.

It was the Argentine forward's first visit to Gabon and he signed autographs on team jerseys worn by his fans, before proceeding with the laying of the first stone, accompanied by the president.

"When I was in Barcelona a few years ago, I met Messi who had told me that he would come to visit me in Libreville," said the Gabon president.

"It's a promise he made me. He is a man of honour who just kept his word."

The new stadium will have a capacity of 20,000 and is expected to host matches from November 2016 in the build-up to the tournament.

Port Gentil is Gabon's second city.

Source: BBC

Formula One Driver Jules Bianchi is dead

Formula One drivers Jules Bianchi has died of injuries sustained at last year's Japanese Grand Prix.

The F1 driver, who was 25, had been in a coma since crashing at Suzuka last October.

A statement released by his family said: "Jules fought right to the very end, as he always did, but today his battle came to an end. The pain we feel is immense and indescribable."

Source: Skysports

New Eagles Coach Sunday Oliseh's message to Nigerians and intending players at large

Former Super Eagles captain Sunday Ogorchukwu Oliseh has sent out a clear message to Nigerians upon assumption of office as head coach of the nation's senior team.

During his unveiling in Abuja, Oliseh mentioned that he has come with an intention of service and not to wage war against his employers or anyone.

"I have come to serve, and the NFF has promised to give me all the support I need to succeed, he said at the media presentation.

"They are the employers and I am the employee. That distinction has to be appreciated at all times.

''I have had meetings with members of the Technical and Development Committee, led by Chief Anyansi-Agwu, very knowledgeable people all. I have met members of the Executive Committeeand the General Secretary. I believe we will all work together excellently. It is a huge honour to be Head Coach of Nigeria.''

Regarding the issue of selecting players who will represent the country, the new man who replaced Stephen Keshi warned that players who ply their trades in lower leagues around the world have no place in his squad with exception to underaged players.

"If you are not playing  in first division in anywhere in the world and in Nigeria, you cannot play for the Super Eagles henceforth.''

''However players coming from the under-aged teams are the only exception to this rule."

Speaking further,  ''It’s a great honour to be a coach of this nation, - he said.

''First of all, I am not coming as a Messiah. I am not coming as a man who can single handedly turn Nigeria to Germany.

''I am coming in to do my best and give if possible 150% all the time.

''The state we are now in Nigeria I think we are all not happy with. Gone are the days we have individual players who can single handedly win a match for you. But we have the potentials and that is our belief and the players must know that it’s an honour to be invited to the national team.''

Real Madrid and Barcelona get clasico dates in new La Liga fixtures

Google Image: El Clasico

Fixtures for the Spanish Primera Division 2015/2016 season were released on Tuesday, with the El Clasico matches scheduled for Week 12 and 31 of the new season.

Barcelona will visit the Santiago Bernabeu to play Real Madrid on November 8th, and the Whites will travel to the Nou Camp for the return leg on 3rd April 2016.

Last season Madrid beat Barca 3-1 at the Bernabeu, while Barcelona won 2-1 at home on their way to winning La Liga.

In the season opener, Luis Enrique tutored side will begin their title defence away to Athletic Bilbao as Madrid travel to newly-promoted Sporting Gijon.

The new La Liga campaign will start on the weekend of the 22/23 August and finish on 14/15 May. On the final day of the season, Barcelona will host Granada, while Real Madrid finish the campaign against La Coruna.

Nigeria Football League body names highest Goal-scorer's award after Rasheed Yekini

Nigeria Professional Football League body LMC, has named the Highest Goal Scorer trophy in honour of Super Eagles legend Rashidi Yekini.

The League Management company Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, said in a statement that the decision to name the trophy after the late striker was made by the board in order to immortalise the player who scored a total of 37 goals in 58 appearances for Nigeria.

“There is a broad plan to institute awards and honour outstanding players, officials, key stakeholders and fans in the league at the end of every season. There are a number of factors that led us to reach the decision to name one of these awards, that of the highest goal scorer, after the late Rashidi Yekini. The awards is part of strategic plans of the LMC to create commercial value and additional revenues out of the assets inherent in the league property,” Dikko said in a statement on the league’s website.

“We considered the aspiration factor, which seeks to let the players know that they too can become national heroes if they achieve excellence and make a success of their career. It says to them that they too can become legends of the game and the society will honour them as we have sought to honour the late Yekini.”

The LMC Chairman disclosed that a monetary incentive and other social benefits will be attached to the awards.

He said, “We have received a request from the Rashidi Yekini Foundation to provide additional cash support to the winner and we are studying their proposal. There are already plans to officially unveil the special trophy for this award at one of the league games.”

See Adebayor kneeling down before Children

Children showering prayers on Togolese Striker Emmanuel Adebayor.

He shared on his Instagram.

"Children are a blessing and gift from the Lord. The other day I went down on my knees and received blessings from all these children."

Humility!

NPFL: Rangers International bounce back with victory over Lobi Stars

By Busayo Olowookere

Courtesy: Busayo Olowookere

It was celebration for fans inside the Nnamdi Azikwe stadium as Rangers Intlernational defeated Lobi Stars 3-1 in the week 17 encounter of Nigeria Professional Football League.

Rangers who lost their last game to Akwa United 0-2 away needed to put smiles on the faces of their home fans who matched into the stadium in their thousands on Sunday.

Lobi stars looked bright from the start with flashes of good attacking as they tried to hold on to play with Rangers int'l looking for the ball but Itodo Akor in goal for the home side made a crucial save while two solid goal line clearance by the defenders of Lobi Stars kept the results at goalless.It was celebration mood for Enugu fans inside the Nnamdi Azikwe stadium as Rangers Intl defeated Lobi Stars 3-1 in the week 17 encounter of Nigeria Professional Football League.

Rangers who lost their last game to Akwa United 0-2 away needed to put smiles on the faces of their home fans who matched into the stadium in their thousands on Sunday.

Lobi stars looked bright from the start with flashes of good attacking as they tried to hold on to play with Rangers int'l looking for the ball but Itodo Akor in goal for the home side made a crucial save while two solid goal line clearance by the defenders of Lobi Stars kept the results at goalless.

The Antelopes were forced to make use of the bench even before the first 45mins elapsed as Rasaq Adegbite had to leave the field with a slight injury after chasing a ball down the line.

On resumption of the second half, the Antelopes came out flying as Christian Madu's corner kick met Etim Matthew inside the box, who beat his opponent before shooting under the arm of goalkeeper Maliea Tekar to send the nervous fans into jubilation.

As the visitors searched for an equalizer,  it was Rangers intl who got of better of their attack as Etim Matthew's through ball met Godwin Aguda who only job was to round the goalkeeper before sloting into the empty net to make it two goals for Rangers.

Things got worst for the visiting side as lack of communication between Melia Tekar and Bunde Moses let  Rangers left back Alex Emenike floated across was headed home into his own net by Bunde Moses with the goalkeeper in no man's land to get the ball.

With time seeming to be off, Lobi stars finally got a consolation goal from a well pieces of ball work combination as Obaino shot pass Itodo Akor.

Speaking after the game, Lobi Stars coach Tenger expressed his disappointment, stating that no coach will accept the defeat and that loss of concentration.

Meanwhile coach Imama Amakapabo of Rangers intl opened up that he knew Lobi stars will play a compact team and he told his boys to calm down, send the ball on errand and it paid of.

INTERVIEW: Foreign Pros disrupted our World Cup Dreams - Ifeanyi Ifeanyi

Ifeanyi Ifeanyi was one of the key players in the Manu Garba led Flying Eagles team that represented the country at the African Youth Championship and the recently concluded FIFA World Youth Championship in New Zealand. The defensive midfielder in this interview with Amos Joseph shares his ''memorable experience'' and painful exit at the world stage.

Question: You were at the African Youth Championship and also made the team that went to the FIFA World Cup in New Zealand, how will you describe the experience?

It was an awesome experience I must say. Being at the African Championship alone was a great thing for me and my career, I thought it was the ultimate until i got to the world cup and realized that it's a different ball game. From the environment, pitches, weather and the teams that were involved it was just a different level.

Question: You guys lost the first match against Brazil, what was the felling like after the game considering the team's preparation towards the tournament. 

It wasn't easy at all. It was hell! Because we knew we could do better than that, we knew we were better than Brazil and we could hold our own against any opposition. We got to camp that night and could not eat, everybody was grumbling, just because we knew we could have won the match. But in football you never can tell until 90 minutes. 

Question: What motivated the victory against Korea DPR and Hungary in the last two group matches? 

Before every match, we always have pre-match meeting with the coaches. They made us believe we could do better than what we did against Brazil. They made us believe in ourselves old us they believes in us as well, we also knew we could do better and gave our best in the match against North Korea and Hungary to come out victorious.

Question: Can you tell us what you think went wrong against Germany, which saw the end to your quest?

So many things went wrong on that day. Firstly, we have never played under that very weather before. We've been playing at New Plymouth which was not in the night. The second round games were to be played in Christ Church, which was colder than our previous venue (New Plymouth). The time for the match was 7.30 in the evening, we never trained at that time. The weather was very cold so it affected us a lot. Secondly, our minds were not together. Some of the foreign-based professionals were feeling too big. Unlike the African Championship where we were all working together.

Question: In essence, are you saying that the inclusion of some of the foreign-based the professionals affected the team?

Somehow the inclusion of these players i'll say affected the team and also helped on the other hand. You could see the likes of Success, Musa Yahaya and Wilfred Ndidi against Brazil giving their best to prove their mettle as professionals. But the fitness level could not be compared to those of us who have been training together for a couple of months.

Question: In all, what was your best moment in the tournament? 

Well, my best moment in that tournament was against Hungary because we knew if we had not won that game, it would have been something else. We would have been counting our fingers waiting to be part of the best losers. But we came out strong, did our best and got the three points, we won 2-0. After the game we were all very happy. 

Question: The world cup is over, what is your vision from here or What would it mean for you to play in Europe? 

My vision is to play in Europe. That has always been my dream, to play in the Champions League someday. But I know with God all thing are possible. 

Question: Can you mention some players you look up to? 

I look up to players like Andre Pirlo, Yaha Toure and John Obi Mikel. They are players i adore in the game.

Question: What is your advise to other young ones out there who also aspire to play for the national team some day? 

For me first, is self-believe. Because you may go somewhere and the coach does not believe in you but you need to prove the coach wrong. Also hard work is very important. I train very hard, I don't joke with my training. Work like there's no tomorrow, and above all is prayer because that is the key.