Lokosa's Esperance receives CAF $2.5m cash prize

Super Eagles ace, Junior Lokosa and his Espearance teammates will smile to their respective banks as the Confederation of African Football ( CAF) have paid the Tunisian club the sum of $2.5m dollars for winning the Champions League.

Recall that there was mild controversies that surrounded the Espearance victory over Wydad Casablanca of Morocco which prompted CAF to order the replay after Wydad abandoned the second leg due to referees and VAR errors.

Esperance took the case to Court for Arbitration for Sports (CAS) which nullified the replay ordered by CAF and Appeal Committee then ratified the decision and confirmed the Tunisia side as the authentic champion.

 Espearance Vice President, Hechimi Jilani confirmed the receipt of the cash prize last week Tuesday.

“I can tell you that we have received our prize money this morning from CAF,” he said.

CAF payment to the Tunisian giants means an end to the saga that would have ridiculed African club football.

Ilechukwu hails Gov. Ihedioha as Heartland takes delivery of new coaster bus

Heartland FC of Owerri Head Coach Fidelis Ilechukwu has assured the Imo State Governor, Emeka Ihedioha
that the team can win a silverware or a continental ticket.

Camara gave the assurance as he poured encomiums on HIS Excellency after the Naze Millionaires took delivery of a brand new Totota Coaster bus from the state government.

Nwabuoku returns, as Rivers Angels sign 10 others

 

IN a bid to ensure the team continues with its tremendous performance in the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), reigning champions Rivers Angels have secured the services of 2016 highest top scorer, Rafiat Sule from Bayelsa Queens and FC Minsk midfielder, Halimatu Ayinde.

Sule scored nine goals in the 2015/2016 NWFL season and helped Bayelsa Queens progress to the 2016 Women’s Federation Cup finals but was absent when her side lost to eventual winners, Rivers Angels.

Ayinde also put pen to paper with the ‘Jewel of Rivers’ as they prepare for the upcoming season after seeing out her contract with FC Minsk of Belarus.

The NWFL champions also snapped a Patience Kalu from Bayelsa Queens.

Kalu was second highest goal scorer last season and she will be joined by the impressive Delta Queens striker, Alice Ogebe.

Making a return to the team after spending a season each with Ostersund DFF of Kazakhstan and En Avant de Guingamp of France is former Super Falcons skipper, Evelyn Nwabuoku and compatriot, Cecilia Nku who spent last season with Medkila IL of Norway.

Rivers Angels were crowned 2015/2016 NWFL champions following a 5-3 victory over Nasarawa Amazons on penalties at the FIFA Goal Project in Abuja.

NEW PLAYERS

Tochuchukwu Oluehi   - Medkila IL (Norway)

Ologbosere Mary     – Ibom Angels

Rafiat Sule   - Bayelsa Queens

Patience Kalu  - Bayelsa Queens

Tantoh Melvis – Delta Queens

Ogebe Alice    - Delta Queens

Ezekiel Blessing – Taraba Queens

Chinaza Uchendu – Nasarawa Amazons

Evelyn Nwabuoku - En Avant de Guingamp (France)

Cecilia Nku – Medkila IL (Norway)

Halimatu Ayinde – FC Minsk (Belarus)

Makinwa blames Gateway stadium bumpy pitch for ABS loss

 

By Rasaq Oboirien

COACH Henry Makinwa has blamed his team's poor display against Remo Stars on the bumpy pitch of the Gateway International Stadium, Sagamu, reports NaijaSportsXtra"blogspot.com.

The NPFL 'giant-killers' suffered what could be their biggest defeat of the season after the trio of Awazie Ekene, Oche Salefu and Felix Benjamin put three goals past goalkeeper, Boje Abdullahi on Matchday 13 of the Nigeria Professional Football League.

The former Tianjin TEDA player in his post match chat said: "You want to know why ABS lost, the pitch. In 21st century and we still have this kind of playing turf, it's bad.

"Our passing game didn't work, as my players couldn't express themselves well, they were handicapped as the pitch was bumpy.

"But I want to congratulate Remo Stars, they have won, they made good use of the pitch to their advantage."

Speaking further, "None of my players were to blame for the three goals we shipped in today. I mean, how do you explain it, one of my striker was goal bound, he shoots but it went the other way.

"You say it's our biggest defeat so far this season, I know, but what can I say, we lost."

Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) FC will this weekend host seven times NPFL champions, Enyimba to the Ilorin Township Stadium on Matchday 14.

Ilechukwu battle Bala, two others for League Bloggers Award

 

THE League Bloggers Awards (LBA), on Monday, announced an eight-man shortlist to vie for the Manager and Player's awards respectively for the month of February in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

The list include four managers and four players from the top division in the country.

Abubakar Bala of Tornadoes, Ladan Bosso of El-Kanemi Warriors, Abdul Maikaba of Akwa United and MFM FC's Fidelis Ilechukwu are the four men in the race for February's manager award while Moses Ebiye, Sunday Adetunji, Samuel Mathias and Ernest Governor are listed for the player's prize.

Tornadoes head coach Bala helped his club to three wins, including a 1-0 win at struggling Remo Stars. 

Bala also led his team to a 1-1 draw against Katsina United in one of their three home games in February.

The performance earned Bala and Tornadoes 10 points despite a two-nil loss at Plateau United.

Bosso's El-Kanemi Warriors were in fine fettle in the month under review. Out of five matches played, they won four including a 1-0 success at Abia Warriors. Their other wins were at home against former Nigerian champions Enyimba, Gombe United, Abia Warriors and Nasarawa United.

It was a period of resurgence for Akwa United under Maikaba as he guided the Promise Keepers to three wins and a draw at Gombe United in five matches in February. Their only defeat was a 0-1 loss at Enyimba.

Ilechukwu had just three games to oversee for MFM FC and had a decent return considering that two of the games were played on the road. MFM won 1-0 at Sunshine Stars and then stunned champions Enugu Rangers 2-1

at their Agege Stadium ground with their only loss (at ABS FC sandwiched by the wins).

ABS defender Governor was very influential in his team's outing in February. He put in a massive shift in defence at Kano Pillars despite their 0-1 loss and replicated same performance when his club edged MFM FC 1-0 in a home game. Governor then showed he has a scoring dimension to his game when he netted twice at a difficult Akure Stadium venue where he earned a point for his team in a 2-2 draw with Sunshine Stars.

With three goals and an assist, El-Kanemi's Mathias was one of the top picks in February. All three of his goals were at home against Gombe United and Nasarawa United while he provided the assist for their famous 1-0 win at Abia Warriors in mid-February.

Adetunji got among the shortlists for February's prize on the back of scoring all of Abia Warriors' four goals in February in five matches.

The former 3SC man scored two times at home against Gombe United and Sunshine Stars while the other two were at Nasarawa United and Akwa United.

Akwa United's Ebiye completes the list as the top assist provider in February. He provided three assists in wins against Remo Stars, Plateau United and Abia Warriors and capped his outing in the month under review with a well-taken goal against Abia Warriors.

The LBA will announce the player and manager for February this week.

FEBRUARY NOMINEES

MANAGERS

Ladan Bosso (El-Kanemi Warriors)

Abdu Maikaba (Akwa United)

Abubakar Bala (Niger Tornadoes)

Fidelis Ilechukwu (MFM FC)

PLAYERS

Sunday Adetunji (Abia Warriors)

Samuel Mathias (El-Kanemi Warriors)

Ernest Governor (ABS FC)

Moses Ebiye (Akwa United)

We were brilliant against ABS FC-Salefu

 

REMO Stars Man of the Match, Oche Salefu has disclosed that he is happy with his performance and that of his teammates after defeating Abubakar Bukola Saraki Football Club 3-0 in Match Day 13 of the Nigeria Professional Football League.

Oche Salefu grabbed his second goal of the season for the Sky Blue Stars after defensive errors from the Saraki Boys in the 64th minute of the game.

"Sunday's victory was very important to the team because we haven't won a game in our last 7 games and we are very happy about it."

"My only motivation has always been from God, My parents, fans of the club and the President of Remo Stars FC, Honourable Kunle Soname."

"Losing the captain of the team, Victor Mbaoma who have been a great inspiration to the team has been painful because he has always been very important to us but we are happy we still won without him," he revealed.

Enyimba were lucky to get point against MFM- Ilechukwu

 

TECHNICAL Adviser of Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries Football Club, Fidelis Ilechukwu, has said that his team's tactics and formation against seven-time Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) winners Enyimba International FC didn't work out as expected.

MFM FC were forced to a one-all draw on Saturday in Calabar in one of Matchday 13 fixtures of the NPFL against Enyimba.

Stephen Odey's 24th minute audacious strike couldn't earn Ilechukwu and his wards their second away win of the season as Ibrahim Mustapha put the Aba Elephant back into the game with an 84th minute equalizer.

Despite picking a point in the match, the Lagos-based team tactician said his team drew the game because the tactics and formation he employed didn't work according to plan.

He said: "I'm not happy with the result of the game not because of anything but because my tactics and formation didn't work as expected. It was a game we should have won had it been things worked according to our plans. Enyimba were just lucky.

"During the first half of the match we knew Enyimba would result to aerial balls in order to put the pressure on our team. I told my players that they must avoid losing the balls because that will cause pressure and also give Enyimba the edge.

"Enyimba forced my team to a defensive play and there was nothing we could do at that point in time than to soak up the pressure and then rely on counter. We almost caught them on counter when Ifeanyi Abara raced on to a pass from Onuwa but the young boy was dispossessed. And we lost the chance to get three points in the 84th minute."

Olatunbosun delighted with Enyimba's result

 

MOUNTAIN of Fire and Miracles Ministries Football Club forward, Sikiru Olatunbosun has told mountaintopfc.com that he is delighted with his team's 1-1 result against Enyimba International FC in one of the Matchday 13 fixtures of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) decided in Calabar on Saturday.

The Aba giants muscled out a point against MFM FC at the UJ Esuene Stadium courtesy of an 84th minute strike from Ibrahim Mustapha after Stephen Odey had put the Olukoya Boys in front with a superb finish in the 24th minute.

Olatunbosun who was absolutely exceptional in the keenly contested match expressed his delight in an interview with MFM FC Media.

"A tight game it was for us I must say, but we thank God that at least we were able to pick a point although that wasn't what we planned for but I'm happy that we nicked the one point.

"We came into the game with a winning mentality but we failed to hold on to our lead, the pressure from Enyimba in the second half was just too much, we tried to soak it up but we were unable.

"Going forward we hope to build on this result as we look forward to more away points," the left winger told mountaintopfc.com. 

Olatunbosun has scored three goals and created three assists so far in the ongoing NPFL season.

Go Round FC unveil jerseys, players undergo medical tests

 

NIGERIA National League, NNL side, Go Round FC have unveiled their jerseys for the new season.

The ceremony took place at their Kris Dera Hotel Stadium premises over the weekend.

The jerseys for the season include their FA Cup kit, the home and away strip for the League as well as training gear.

They will once again be kitted by Nigerian Sports Wear conglomerate, Owu.

General Manager of the club, Soni Uboh stated that the training kit were provided by a fan of the club, Peter Aniekwe who is a Lagos based business magnate.

“Apart from the regular home and away strips, we also have the FA Cup jersey, as well as our dedicated training kit,” Uboh said.

“Yes, it is the first time the club will have such and it is courtesy of Peter Aniekwe, one of our supporters and we really want to appreciate him for being there for us.”

Meanwhile, after a heated session with the three man, Technical Committee, coach of the club, Ngozi Elechi finally submitted a list of twenty nine players to be registered by the club including three from NPFL clubs.

The shortlisted players had their medical examinations at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital immediately and have resumed preparations for the new season.

The club’s first game in the League will be in Lagos against First Bank FC on March 19, 2017 before returning to their home ground, Omoku to take on Nnewi United on March 22.

Three star Remo beat ABS FC 3-0

 

By Rasaq Oboirien

REMO Stars put up a five star showing as they defeated visiting Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS FC) 3-0 in a Matchday 13 fixture of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), reports NaijaSportsXtra.blogspot.com.

It was coach Fatai Osho's first victory in the topflight division as manager of the Sky Blues.

His did it in emphatic style as they put behind their Matchday 12 second half poor showing against FC IfeanyiUbah in Nnewi to put three goals past ABS FC goalkeeper, Boje Abdullahi.

The duo of Awazie and Benjamin Felix scored their debut NPFL goal for the Sagamu based team while Oche Salefu was scoring his second of the season.

The Saraki Boys were hopeful to get a point on the road but had their school boy defending to blame early in the 8th minute after Awoyemi Abiodun's cross met Ekene Awazie to score with his head from close range to put the Sky Blue Stars ahead.

Remo Stars continued brilliantly with fine display as Oche Salefu and Lasisi Saheed combined well to extend the lead for the home side but ABS FC's Boje Abdullahi was quick to save.

Early in the second half, Oche Salefu had another chance to get the second goal for the home side but put the ball side netting.

Onovo then had the best chance to make it 2-0 for the Sky Blues Stars but goalkeeper Boje stood his ground to deny the opposing strike his first goal of the season following his reflex save on one-on-one.

The introduction of Eugene Ossy into the game looked bright for the visitors but saw couple of chances saved by goalkeeper, Walbe David.

Just minutes after, Oche Salefu extended the lead for Osho's men after he capitalised on poor defending from the Saraki Boys.

Benjamin Felix wrapped up the entertaining fixture with the third goal of the day when he also capitalised on an error from Boje Abdullahi in the 89th minute.

Odey's goal gifts MFM point against Enyimba in Calabar

 

By Rasaq Oboirien 

STEPHEN Odey extended his season goals tally to eight after Enyimba FC of Aba came from behind to force Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM FC) of Lagos to a 1-1 draw on Matchday 13 of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), reports NaijaSportsXtra.blogspot.com.

It was a game of two halves as the Olukoya Boys took command of the first half as Odey should have put his team up in the 22nd minute but fluffed the chance.

A good passage of play, saw Olatunbosun lobs the ball to Odey who heads straight at Enyimba Ghanian goalkeeper, Fatau Daudu.

Odey then made amend for his miss two minutes later, as he turned away from his mark to finish off superbly from an assist by Onuwa Chukwuka. The first half ended 0-1 in their favour.

Coach Gbenga Ogunbote's half time dressing talk paid off in the second half as his lads were dominant as they took much of the ball possession from MFM FC.

In the 52nd minute, the seven times Nigeria Professional Football League champions thought they had got their equalizing goal but Egbe Ospino sharp reflexes denied Mfom Udoh, as the MFM goalkeeper tipped the Aba Elephants striker's effort from a cross over the woodworks.

Four minutes later, Sikiru Olatunbosun thought he had given his team a two goal cushion but his effort was is flagged off as offside.

Ogunbote then threw in his other arsenal Ismaila Gata in the 70minute sensing the Ilechukwu boys could leave the U.J Esuene Stadium, Calabar with the maximum 3points.

The People's Elephants effort then paid off in the 85th minute as Mustapha Ibrahim equalizes with an overhead kick. 

With five additional minutes, MFM FC of Lagos kept their lines as they recorded their second draw on the road this season.

Recall their first point was against Shooting Stars of Ibadan at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba and from there they went to shock Sunshine Stars in Akure as they got the maximum 3points.

Remo fans should expect our best against ABS FC-Awoyemi

 

VICE- captain of Remo Stars Football Club, Awoyemi Abiodun has insisted that the fans of the club should expect a good performance on Sunday despite their disappointing outing in Nnewi in Match Day 8 rescheduled game.

The Sky Blue Stars welcomes the Saraki Boys to the Gateway International Stadium, Sagamu in Match Day 13 of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

Speaking with RSFC Media, Awoyemi says the loss to Anamabra Warriors was painful but they have gotten over it and will concentrate fully on their remaining games.

"We are not happy with our performance against FC Ifeanyi Ubah in our Match Day 8 of our rescheduled game in the league. We traveled with a positive mindset but got carried away at the end of it all."

"I want to apologise to our fans and we hereby assure them of positives in our coming games starting from Sunday against ABS FC."

"No doubt, the Saraki Boys are also a good side but with our commitment now, we can assure you that they will be punished when we play them on Sunday."

"I also want to use this opportunity to appreciate our fans for their support overtime and plead with them to keep supporting us because we need them more."

"Our captain, Victor Mbaoma is injured but I can assure you that our strikers will come to the party tomorrow to fill the vacuum he left due to his injury" Awoyemi declared.

The Sky Blue Stats are 20th on the log with 9 points from possible 36 points.

NPFL/LA LIGA COURSE: Lobi Youth coaches thank Gov. Ortom, Idoko

 

LOBI Stars Youth Coaches of Eugene Agagbe and Lawrence Adoga have expressed gratitude to the Governor of Benue State, His Excellency Mr. Samuel Ortom and the entire Lobi board led by Mike Idoko.

Both coaches recently took part in a coaching clinic organized by the Nigeria Professional Football League(NPFL) in collaboration with the Spanish La Liga in Abuja, the nation's capital.

Presenting their certificates to the vice chairman of Lobi Stars, Agagbe expressed his gratitude to the State Governor HIS Excellency Mr. Samuel Ortom and the entire Lobi Stars board of  director for giving them the opportunity to attend the coaching clinic in other upgrade their knowledge to modern coaching skills and promised to translate the knowledge acquired to the club youth system.

On his part, Idoko charged the two coaches to input the valuable skills they acquired in the clinic for the growth of the club.

"I want the two of you to be proactive in your new roles, as the club youth system will be the engine room of the club.

"This is what is obtainable in Europe, and with both of you in charge, the club can harness the potentials of the millions of soccer youths that are in the nooks and crannies of the state."

Bala plots El-Kanemi Warriors fall in Maiduguri

 

ABUBAKAR Bala has been employing tactics for his side to halt Elkanemi Warriors' unbeaten home run when both sides lock horns on Matchday 13 of the Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL on Sunday.

Bala would be banking on his side's current form couple with a special match strategy to nick out a memorable result against the Maiduguri Warriors, citing Tornadoes' previous performance on the road which has seen them garnered four points (a draw against Rangers in Enugu and a win against Remo Stars) in total.

"I'm happy with what  the boys are doing, we are taking all games as they come with absolute seriousness and determination, that reflected in our last game (a 2-0 home win over Nasarawa United) and I believe we can still improve as there are rooms to do better in next games," begins Bala.

"We are going to approach our next game with a special pattern, it's even good alot of pundits will not give us a chance that we can get anything from Maiduguri, but it's a plus for us as all pressure will now be on Elkanemi on Sunday.

"I'm sure we will surprise everyone at the end of the day, this was how we went to Enugu against Rangers and nobody could see us getting anything there, same thing with Remo Stars, we hope for a better and friendly atmosphere with a prayer for luck, I'm sure you will all be shocked with the outcome of the result on Sunday," he said.

The anticipated grudge match slated for Township Stadium in Maiduguri could see The Borno Army extend their home wins in the apex league to a round figure of 20 games with a victory over their visitors.

Tornadoes on the other side are also aiming to continue their resurgence in the NPFL with a good result, a feat no club has achieved in the last 19

trials.

Ladan Bosso's Warriors occupy second spot on the 12 Weeks old NPFL log with 21 points while Tornadoes sits sixth with 18points from the same number of games played.

Ilechukwu tips MFM to shock Enyimba in Calabar

 

FIDELIS Ilechukwu has stated that his Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM FC) of Lagos wards are strong enough to match seven-time Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions, Enyimba International FC this weekend  in Calabar.

The Olukoya Boys are guests to the Peoples Elephant in one of the Matchday 13 fixtures in the Nigerian top flight which will to take place at the UJ Esuene Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

"We want to replicate our fine form against Enyimba because we have not lost against them in more than five meetings both in pre-season and Nigeria Professional Football League," said the Head Coach.

"We played a goalless draw last season and we want to build on that in as much as I understand that there are changes in manager and some players have left although they still have quality players but we want to maintain our status against Enyimba.

"The LMC has done so much in the Nigeria Professional Football League, there's no more home, no more away, anybody can win anywhere, draw and lose anywhere as it stands now anything can happen this is football. I believe we have a strong team that can match with Enyimba so I believe we can beat them in their home," he told club website mountaintopfc.com.

The modest Lagos-based team currently sit in the fifth spot on the NPFL standings with 19 points from 10 league matches.

Akwa's Alhassan out of Sunshine Stars tie

 

ALHASSAN Ibrahim will miss this weekend Akwa United Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Matchday 13 home game against Sunshine Stars of Akure due to suspension.

The attacking midfielder has accumulated five yellow cards in twelve matches and will miss the game on Sunday.

According to the LMC rules: An accumulation of 5 yellow cards results in a one match suspension.

The midfielder who has scored five goals in twelve marches was booked in the games against Katsina United (away), Gombe United (away), Enyimba International (away) Nasarawa United (away) and El Kanemi Warriors (home).

It will be the first time this season that Alhassan Ibrahim will not start a match for the Promise Keepers.

Enyeama, Balogun, Oshoala hail Barca on historic UCL comeback

 

By Rasaq Oboirien

FORMER Super Eagles captain, Vincent Enyeama, defender, Leon Balogun and Super Falcons ace, Asisat Oshoala have hailed FC Barcelona following their UEFA Champions League historic comeback against Paris St Germine (PSG), reports NaijaSportsXtra.blogspot.com.

The Catalan big guns and completed the greatest comeback in Champions League historyin the most improbable fashion with three goals in the final seven minutes to defeat Paris Saint-Germain 6-1 and earn an incredible 6-5 win on aggregate in their Round of 16 second leg on Wednesday night at the Camp Nou.

Neymar scored in the 88th and 90th minutes before Sergi Roberto completed the miracle in the final minute, all coming after an early trio of goals from Barcelona before Edinson Cavani had seemingly earned PSG passage to the quarterfinals with a score just after the hour mark.

The Nigerian trio and other sports icons share their views on social media during and after the game.

Enyeama on his Twitter handle, vinny‏ ‪@vinpee‬: "It's getting hot in here.‪#FCBPSG‬. Reality setting in.dreams becoming nightmare.‪#FCBPSG"‬

"Can't believe what I just witnessed - this is football," Balogun's tweet read on‬‏ ‪@LeonBalogun‬.

‪For CAF Woman Player of the Year, "‬My brother, ONLY BARCELONA can do this," her tweet read on‪ @AsisatOshoala.‬

Former Germany and Chelsea legend Michael Ballack‏ ‪on @Ballack:"‬These were 1,2,3,4,5,6 reasons to love football ‪@FCBarcelona,#FCBPSG‬ ‪@ChampionsLeague‬. What a pain for ‪#PSG‬ ... congrats to ‪#Barça."‬

‪However,‬ Lionel Messi dedicated the triumph to 96,000 spectators who filled the Camp Nou.

Photo credit Marca

IfeanyiUbah crushes Remo Stars 3-0

 

By Rasaq Oboirien

IFEANYIUBAH FC crushed Remo Stars 3-0 in a rescheduled Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) game played on Wednesday as Godwin Obaje bagged a brace, reports NaijaSportsXtra.blogspot.com.

Obaje who emerged as the top scorer for last season, ended his goal drought since joining the Anambra Warriors from Wikki Tourists. 

After his opening goal in the 53rd minute, IfeanyiUbah were on the drivers seat scoring two goals in the last seven minutes of the game.

It was a drab encounter in the first half as it ended in a draw. Both teams should have found the back of the net no thanks to their goalkeepers, but Obaje would have rued his misses if the game had ended goalless.

In the 52nd minute, a spot kick was awarded to Ifeanyiubah after Remo Stars substitute, Ekene Awazie who replaces Akeem Taiwo was adjudged by the match official to have handled Onuigbo's cross in the box.

Obaje made no mistake tucking his spot kick into the net as he sent goalkeeper Chizoba Ndukwe the wrong way.

Seven minutes after teenage sensation, Solomon Nsude replaced Ifeanyi Onuigbo, Ndukwe had to force a save off a shot from Nsude to deny youngster his debut goal after a brilliant piece of work by Onyedikachi in the 77th minute.

Remo Stars then paid for its poor marking from a set-piece in the 84th minute after defender Adou Blaise nodded into the net from an Alberico Da Silva free kick to make it 2-0.

Obaje then put the icing on the cake in the 91st minute after Aniyikaye heads another Alberico free kick to his path, to slice the ball into the net.

Zamalek duo out of Rangers tie

EGYPTIAN giants, Zamalek will be without the duo of Ahmed Tawfik and Mohamed Nassef when they confront Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) champions, Rangers International of Enugu in the CAF Champions League round of 32 first leg tie in Cairo.

Tawfik, 25 is on the sideline after he tore  in his ankle while Nassef, a 30-year-old left-back suffered a tear in his foot.

The two sides will face off a week from Saturday in the second-leg away in Nigeria.

Five-time title holders Zamalek finished runners-up at the last edition of CAF, the most prestigious African club championship.

Adeniyi commends LMC on Youth Coaches Training

 

THE League Management Company has been commended for its several innovations to improve the standard of the Nigerian league, including the training of over 100 youth football coaches that was held over the weekend in Abuja. 

Speaking with the press in his office, the Secretary - General of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Barrister Kunle Adeniyi, praised the initiative of the LMC, stating that such training programmes would not only help the growth of the local league, but it would also help to produce a collection of top class coaches that would invariably take Nigerian football to the next level. 

" I must praise the LMC led by its indefagtible Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko for all it's been doing to improve Nigerian football through the local league, " Adeniyi stated. 

" This is, indeed, a welcome development and l believe in the not too distant future, our football will be able to boast of several young and quality coaches, " the amiable scribe of the NFSC added. 

The coaching clinic which had 100 club youth coaches from across the country was organised by the LMC in conjunction with the La Liga, as part of its partnership programmes.

Gata gets surprise birthday bash from fan

 

A fan of Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS) Ilorin FC attacking player, Adeshina Gata, Alhaji Abdullateef Adedeji Adebowale, has surprised the youngster with a get-together for his birthday.

Adebowale who described Gata as a delight to watch said at the get-together that a player such as the former Kwara United player needs to be celebrated.

Adebowale is the General Manager of Kwara State Broadcasting Corporations (Radio Kwara).

"We have to celebrate our own, these are young lads who need encouragement.

"We should have done this since but this is coming today because of the team's tight schedules.

"Incidentally, I scored the only goal that gave us the three points on Sunday against Katsina United.

"I will continue to identify with hard working player like Gata, I thank you for accepting my pledge to host this man," Adebowale said.

Responding, the celebrant, Gata, thanked the sponsor of his birthday's get-together.

He said such gesture will spur him to do more for the Saraki Boys.

Gata added that the best is yet to come from him and urged the fans of the team to continue their brilliant support to him and his teammates.

"I want to thank Alhaji Adebowale for this gesture, I am happy he appreciates what I am doing.

"I never knew I can cut the attention of a man as Adebowale.

"I want to thank you very much sir for this honour, it is one I can never forget sir" Gata said.

The ABS FC Director of Football, Alloy Chukwuemeka, also thanked the Radio Kwara General Manager for identifying with the team.

He urged other well to do Nigerians especially in Kwara to emulate Alhaji Adebowale.

He pledged that ABS FC will continue to operate in line with international best practices and will keep to its policy of developing the youth through football.

"We will continue to maintain our position as one of the most professionally run clubs in Nigeria.

"Our target or better say policy is to develop players from the grassroots and nurture them to stardom.

"More than half of the clubs in the NPFL today have one or two players of ABS Ilorin FC" Chukwuemeka said.

Remo Stars Mbaoma, David out of Ifeanyi Ubah tie

 

By Rasaq Oboirien

REMO Stars captain, Victor Mboama and goalkeeper, Walbe David are out of tomorrow's rescheduled Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Matchday 8 fixture against IfeanyiUbah, reports NaijaSportsXtra.blogspot.com.

Recall The Anambra Warriors traveled for their CAF Confederation Cup but were knocked out via penalties to Al Masry of Egypt after a 1-1 draw on aggregate.

The duo limped off after sustaining ankle injuries in last weekend south-west derby game against Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM FC) of Lagos at the Agege Stadium.

Mboama and David who had their ankles wrapped with ice, will miss the game the Sagamu based team informed.

Meanwhile, Coach Fatai Osho has assured fans that his Remo Stars squad will start winning their Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) games in no time.

Osho's three match unbeaten run came to an end after his Sky Blues Stars lost by a lone goal scored by season top scorer Stephen Odey.

"Everytime we play, we try to win but it has not been happening. We don't have to drop our heads but I believe the boys will start winning with time." Osho assured.

Osho: Remo should have got point against MFM FC

 

TECHNICAL Adviser of Remo Stars Football Club, Fatai Osho has downplayed Mountain of Fire Miracles and Ministry Football Club victory over the Sky Blue Stars on MatchDay 12 of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) on Sunday.

Speaking after the game, Osho feels that the result of the game between both sides was not a reflection of what happened on the field of play.

Stephen Odey bagged his 7th goal of the season from a penalty spot after Walbe David was adjudged by the match official to have fouled CNN Goal of The Week award winner, Sikiru Olatunbosun inside the box in the 14th minute of the game.

"Nothing spectacular went wrong in Sunday's south-west derby game, we came with a lot of expectations and we could have gotten something better."

"MFM FC has won, we have to give it to them because they did their best to win but I must be honest with you, the result wasn't actually a reflection of what happened on the field of play and a draw could have been a better result."

"We are a team in transit, we can't shy away from that but I can assure you that as we go on, we will definitely get better." Osho concluded.

The Sky Blues Stars will on Matchday 13 tackle Abubakar Bukola Saraki (ABS FC) of Ilorin at the Gateway International Stadium in Sagamu on Sunday.

Odey's strike nails Remo Stars

 

By Rasaq Oboirien

COACH Fatai Osho's three-match unbeaten run as new Remo Stars technical adviser came to an end as Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) FC of Lagos claimed the bragging right in the South-West derby fixture on Matchday 12, reports NaijaSportsXtra.blogspot.com.

Stephen Odey scored the only goal of the game from the penalty spot to put his season tally to seven goals.

The Olukoya Boys strike force led by the trio of Sikiru Olatunbosun, Stephen Odey and Adebayo Al-Waheed were active in the opening half causing havoc for the defence line of the visitors.

A poor back pass from Jamilu Coker to his goalkeeper gifted MFM FC a penalty as Walbe David was adjudged to have infringed Sikiru Olatunbosun inside the box.

Odey, coolly tucked his spot to the right bottom corner of the post sending David the wrong way.

There were key decisions referee Folusho Ajayi failed to make as Remo Stars should had a penalty when a Sky Blues star was fouled inside MFM FC box.

Sikiru should have doubled the lead for the home team five minutes later but his chip from a miscued pass from goalkeeper, Chizoba Ndukwe who replaced injured David, hit the upright of the woodwork.

As play resumed in the second half, Ndukwe poor decision should have cost his team another goal as he was too casual with his clearance outside the box.

A smart Olatunbosun capitalized on the Remo Stars shot stoppers lose to shot from long range which went over the goal post.

In the 53rd minute, Salefu Ochowechi should have equalized for Remo Stars but Ospino Egbe reflex save denied the petit midfielder his second goal of the season.

In the 74th Odey should have made it 2-0 for the Olukoya Boys but his point blank shot was saved by Ndukwe.

This is MFM FC fifth home home this season and seventh defeat for the Sky Blues Stars.

Bala rues Tornadoes defeat to Abia Warriors

 

COACH Abubakar Bala of Niger Tornadoes says that the slow reactions of his players led to his side lone goal defeat at the Umuahia Township Stadium, Wednesday.

Godwin Zaki’s 16th minute penalty rebound that was punched away by Niger Tornadoes save hands Mustapha Aliko went towards the path of Anthony Okemmiri who reacted quickly to give Abia Warriors the most wanted win as he scored on Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) match day 11.

Coach Bala said that if his wards had reacted quickly to the rebound they might have a better part of the ball, and the goal could have been avoided.

The coach said that he is going back to work on his side reaction to second balls even though he praised them for their resilience throughout the game and for adhering to instructions.

He further said that there was no cause for alarm for the inability of his strikers not to score in recent matches, saying that he was building a team that will all players as free scoring ones.

“I don’t want to build my team around a selected striker or players, I want a team that every player can score even the defenders”, he said.

The coach added that he wants to build a team that will stay together for three years if he is given the opportunity.

He said that the team has been improving with each game, promising that if this team can stay for some years together then their quality would not be hidden.

According to him, his former boss, Abdullahi Usman Biffo has a quality side but said that they were not playing as unit.

He said that his boss who recently took charge of the team following the resignation of Okey Emordi still has some work to do.

Tornadoes thought they have equalized a well taken free kick by Ifeanyi Okoye in the 23rd minute left Abia Warriors Anozie Chinedu stuck to the ground as the cross bar came to their rescue.

Coach Bala said his focus now shifts to Nassarawa United match in Lokoja and he will go back and plan on winning the match.