Sport

Reactions as Super Eagles New Gaffer Set to Arrive

By Web News 352 0

By Oluwakayode Banjo/Olusegun Folarin 

Newly-appointed Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle is expected to arrive in Nigeria with three of his trusted assistants.

Chelle is expected in Abuja on Sunday to finalise the details of his contract.

The 47-year-old was named the new Super Eagles head coach by the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, yesterday.

Meanwhile, mixed reactions have trailed the appointment of Eric Chelle as the Super Eagles Head Coach.

Reacting, Former sub-committee member of the NFF, Christopher Green, has called on the NFF to provide a suitable environment for the new Super Eagles coach to succeed.

However, a former chairman of Gombe FA, Gara Gombe has tagged the newly appointed Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, as a baby coach.

Mr Gombe noted that the NFF had taken Nigerian football backwards with Chelle’s appointment.

An Abeokuta-based Sports journalist, Mr Hakeem Adegbenro said the Super Eagles, as a brand, was bigger than just ordinary coach to handle.

Mr Adegbenro described the appointment of the Malian as Super Eagles’ handler as a slap on the faces of Nigerian coaches whom he submitted were better than Éric Sékou Chelle.

Also, a grassroots coach, Mr Femi Bamigboye said Nigerian coaches should have been considered if they applied for the job instead of the Malian.

Mr Bamigboye who is the founder of Remo Football Academy said he could only wish the new coach well since NFF had  confirmed his appointment

Éric Sékou Chelle is a professional football manager and a former player who played as a centre-back. 

Born in Ivory Coast to a French father and a Malian mother, he made five appearances for the Mali national team.

In 2022, Chelle was appointed manager of Mali and guided the Eagles of Mali to the Quarter-Finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, which was held in 2024, losing to hosts Cote D’Ivoire in Extra Time. 

He was dismissed on 13 June 2024.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

2025: CAF Promises Thrilling Actions

By Web News 185 0

By Olaolu Fawole

The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) has a packed 12 months ahead with continental finals across club and national team football that will make 2025 one of the busiest years ever for the governing body.

CAF’s investment in youth and women’s football has added significantly to the calendar and a packed schedule awaits fans, with the start of both the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 and TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2024 this year.

Interclub competitions, junior tournaments and schools football are all also on the agenda as CAF schedules a diverse range of events to enhance the growth of the game on the continent.

Here is a reminder of the key CAF events in 2025:

TOTALENERGIES CAF AFRICAN NATIONS CHAMPIONSHIP 2024 1-28 FEBRUARY 2025

The eighth edition of the TotalEnergies CAF African Nations Championship will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, the first time multiple countries have staged the prestigious event.Senegal are the defending champions and have qualified again to take their place in the 19-team field. The competition is open only to players plying their trade in their home domestic league.

14TH CAF EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL ASSEMBLY 12 MARCH 2025

The 14TH CAF Extraordinary General Assembly will bring together the 54 Member Associations in Egypt, Cairo.The CAF Extraordinary General Assembly will elect the CAF President, some CAF Executive Committee members (those due for elections) and also Members of the FIFA Council from Africa.

TOTALENERGIES CAF U-17 AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS MOROCCO 2025, 30 MARCH – 19 APRIL 2025

For the first time, 10 African Nations will qualify for the expanded 48-team 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup. Africa will have one of the largest representative (quota) thanks to the merit allocation by FIFA.Morocco will host the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 and Senegal are the defending champions after they beat Morocco 2-1 in the 2023 final.

TOTALENERGIES CAF U-20 AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS COTE D’IVOIRE 2025, 26 APRIL – 18 MAY 2025

The best young players from the continent will gather for the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2025 in another celebration of youth football that serves as a qualifier for the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.The four semi-finalists at the tournament in Cote d’Ivoire will advance to the global finals. Senegal are the defending African champions after they lifted the trophy for the first time in 2023.

TOTALENERGIES CAF CONFEDERATION CUP 2024-202516 AUGUST 2024 – 25 MAY 2025

The TotalEnergies CAF Confederation Cup season will culminate with the two-legged final that will be staged on 17 and 25 May, 2025.It will be the end of a campaign that started in August 2024 and will have seen the finalists criss-cross the continent in search of glory. Egyptian side Zamalek are the defending champions.

TOTALENERGIES CAF CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 2024-202516 AUGUST 2024 – 1 JUNE 2025

Africa’s elite club cup competition will draw to a close for the 2024-25 season with the two-legged final to be played on 24 May and 1 June, 2025. Egyptian side Al Ahly have lifted the trophy in four of the previous five years, but there are plenty of contenders looking to win the silverware this season. Teams will be vying for a USD 4-million first prize as well as the honour of being named African champions.

CAF AFRICAN SCHOOLS FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP FINALS 2025

DATE TO BE CONFIRMED

The third edition of the CAF African Schools Football Championship continental finals will be staged as the best Boys and Girls players to have advanced through their national and zonal qualifiers meet to determine the African champions.

Tanzania are the current Boys holders and South Africa won the last Girls finals played in 2024.   

TOTALENERGIES CAF WOMEN’S AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS MOROCCO 2024

5 – 26 JULY 2025

South Africa defend their title at the TotalEnergies CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) Morocco 2024, returning to the scene of their maiden triumph in 2022.

They are one of 12 top teams in the finals field, including the hosts, Nigeria and Zambia. It is a star-studded line-up that will showcase the rapid development of the women’s game.   

CAF WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE 20258 – 23 NOVEMBER 2025

The fifth edition of the CAF Women’s Champions League is to be staged in November, when TP Mazembe from the Democratic Republic of Congo will hope to defend their title.

CAF announced increased prize-money for the 2024 edition that sees the winner take home USD 600,000, with each of the eight finalists earning a minimum USD 150,000 for taking part.

TOTALENERGIES CAF AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS MOROCCO 2025, 21 DECEMBER 2025 – 18 JANUARY 2026

Africa’s greatest show returns as 24 teams from the across the continent battle to be crowned African champions.

The last tournament in Cote d’Ivoire broke several records, including for TV audiences, with 1.4 billion cumulative viewers globally, and the 2025 edition is set to be even bigger and better.

It will be the perfect way to end an incredible year.

CAF

Sport

National Sports Festival Rescheduled to May 2025

By Web News 194 0

By Olusegun Folarin 

The National Sports Festival tagged “Gateway Games” earlier slated for between 12th and 26th January, 2025 has been rescheduled for 16th to 30th May of the same year.

The rescheduling of the festival was  contained in a communique jointly signed by the Director General National Sports Commission, Chief Bukola Olopade and the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka.

Presenting the Communique to Journalists after the 1st Joint Technical meeting of the festival held in Abeokuta, the Secretary, Main Organising Committee, M.O.C, Mrs Thecla Opara said the shift in date for the festival was to allow the state government to effect the necessary recommendations noticed during the inspection of facilities at the proposed venues for the games.

Mrs Opara noted that the meeting also stressed the need for more synergy between members of the MOC Sub-committees/Liaison Officers and relevant Local Organising Committee, LOC Sub-Committees.

She announced that the meeting agreed that athletes discovered from the National Youth Games in some selected sports would be invited to participate in the National Sports Festival as Invited Junior Athletes which is part of the grand plan to nurture them to excel in their sport and develop as well-rounded individuals.

Speaking with Journalists, the Director-General, National Sports Commission, NSC, Chief Olopade explained that the shift in date of the National Sports was to allow the newly created National Sports Commission to settle down and create a sustainable sports economy.

He maintained said the rescheduling was strategically done to create an ecosystem of economic sustainability as mandated by President Bola Tinubu.

In a remark, the Commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun State, Mr Isiaka expressed satisfaction with the decision of the Technical Committee.

Mr Isiaka maintained that the shift in date would allow the state government to further expand the ecosystem of organizing the best National Sports Festival that would be a reference point in the near future.

The 1st Joint Technical Meeting for the National Sports Festival has the 37 Directors of Sports, 37 Technical Directors, all Secretaries of Sports federations, and Main Organizing Committee and Local Organizing Committee in attendance.

Sport

National Sports Festival MOC Arrives Ogun

By Web News 285 0

By Olusegun Folarin

The delegation of the Main Organizing Committee for the National Sports Festival tagged “Gateway Games” has arrived in Abeokuta, the Ogun State to inspect the facilities to be used for the biennial event.

The delegates which comprise the directors of sports from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja as well as other stakeholders were in Abeokuta to confirm the readiness of Ogun state for the festival slated for January 2025.

The team which has the Secretary of the Main Organising Committee, MOC, of the 22nd NSF, Mrs Thecla Opara, on the ground inspected the ongoing construction of the swimming pool, Handball and Tennis courts, cricket Oval, and the main bowl of MKO Stadium Kuto Abeokuta.

Other facilities included, the Ikenne stadium, Babcock University, Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, and Abeokuta Sports Club among others.

The team is expected to address Sports Journalists to clear the air on the possible rescheduling of the festival.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

NYG: Ogun Honours Athletes with over 7Million Naira

By Web News 139 0

By Olusegun Folarin 

Ogun state government has rewarded exceptional athletes who represented the state at the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State with over Seven Million naira as motivation.

Governor Dapo Abiodun while presenting the cheques to the athletes in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, pointed out the government would institutionalised reward for hard work and outstanding performances, especially in sports.     

Represented by Commissioner of Sports, Mr Wasiu Isiaka, Governor Abiodun attributed the successes recorded during the games and other competitions, to his administration’s resolve to take sports back to the grassroots.

The Governor revealed that his administration would use the National Sports Festival to lay a solid foundation for sports in the state, especially the school and grassroots sports, saying these are parts of the reasons the government was revamping stadia across the state.

Earlier, the Acting Director of Sports, Mr. Oluseyi Sonde had appreciated Governor Dapo Abiodun for his commitment to sports development in the state, urging the medalists to continue to strive for excellence, as their success was not just a testament of individual accomplishments, but a reflection of the potential within them.

Responding on behalf of the medalists, Ayomide Heritage, who emerged as the best wrestler in the 42kg category at the Youth Games, expressed gratitude to the governor for the kind gesture, noting that the financial reward would go a long way in boosting their career, promising to work hard and make the state proud in subsequent National and International competitions.

The gold medalists were presented with a cheque of N300,000, the silver medalists with N200,00O and the bronze medalists N 100,000.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Allen Promises Gateway FC’s Comeback

By Web News 154 0

By Segun Folarin

The Head Coach of Gateway United Football Club Festus Allen has assured fans that the team will be back stronger after a goalless draw against visiting Godswill Akpabio United FC in a second tier Nigeria National League NNL 2024/2025 opener played at Gateway International Stadium, Ilaro.

Coach Allen in a post-match interview, promised to correct lapses noticed in the match that saw the inability of the home- side to convert several scoring chances created during the encounter.

Gateway United will look to build on their performance as they prepare for the next fixture away against Osun United on Saturday 14th December, 2024.
Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Real Madrid Claim 15th Champions League Crown

By Web News 239 0

*For Ancelotti, it is fifth win as coach

Real Madrid rode their luck and overcame an outstanding challenge from Borussia Dortmund to win the Champions League at Wembley.

Carlo Ancelotti wrote more history with his fifth win as coach in the competition, while Real claimed the crown for the 15th time in trademark fashion as they survived a torrid first half and several missed opportunities from Dortmund before coming out on top.

Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi missed two first-half chances and striker Niclas Fullkrug hit the post, with recalled Real keeper Thibaut Courtois also providing a formidable barrier.

Real, inevitably, raised the stakes, with Dani Carvajal glancing home a header from a corner 16 minutes from time before Vinicius Jr raced clear on to Jude Bellingham’s pass to add a second nine minutes later.

It crowned a glorious first season at Real for England’s Bellingham, but it was a night of disappointment for compatriot Jadon Sancho, who is on loan to Dortmund from Manchester United.

Real Madrid’s late surge to claim another victory in Europe’s elite tournament carried an air of inevitability as they proved they are a ruthless winning machine when it comes to the Champions League.

As they have done previously in the competition this season, and in seasons before, Real stumbled along in the first half as they were pinned back by the intensity of Borussia Dortmund’s approach.

Real barely put together an attack worthy of the name while hanging on by the skin of their teeth at the other end, with Dortmund creating chances but crucially wasting them.

When that happens, as Liverpool and others have found before them in Champions League finals, there is normally only one outcome.

Match-winner Vinicius Jr was surrounded after the victory

And so it proved as Real, with keeper Courtois fully justifying Ancelotti’s decision to pick him ahead of Andriy Lunin, picked up a head of steam to strike those two late blows to the heart of brave Borussia.

Many will wonder quite how Real Madrid do it when they seem out of sorts so often. But muscle memory kicks in with these great players, as the departing Toni Kroos, Carvajal, Nacho and late substitute Luka Modric claimed Champions League winners’ medals for the sixth time.

As for the peerless Ancelotti, as impassive as ever, he continued his incredible record at the helm of this great club.

It was a quiet night for Bellingam, who missed a big chance before setting up Vinicius Jr for the second. But what a campaign he has had since joining Real from Dortmund.

England will hope this sets up their young superstar perfectly for Euro 2024.

BBC/Simeon Ugbodovon

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

W’Cup Qualifiers: Olawoyin Replaces Tella in Super Eagles’ Squad

By Web News 530 0

Bayer Leverkusen midfielder, Nathan Tella, has withdrawn from the Super Eagles squad ahead of the Nigerian national team’s World Cup qualifiers.

The national team will be playing against South Africa and Benin in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

With the withdrawal of Tella, Caykur Rizespor of Turkey star, Ibrahim Olawoyin, would join the Super Eagles’ squad.

“WCQ Camp Update: Nathan Tella of Bayer Leverkusen has excused himself from the upcoming WCQ matches due to family reasons. Coach Finidi George has now called up Ibrahim Olawoyin of Caykur Rizespor of Turkey,” the national team said on its X account.

The Super Eagles camp for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against South Africa and the Benin Republic will open on Monday June 3, Nigeria will face South Africa at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7 before travelling to Ivory Coast to face Benin Republic on Monday, June 10.

Punch/Olaolu Fawole

Sport

U-14 Basket Ball : Team Ogun Emerges Winner of Male Category

By Web News 1066 0

By Oluwakayode Banjo

Team Ogun State have emerged winner of the male category of the Southwest under 14 basketball tournament organized by Hoop Dreams Nigeria to mark this year’s children’s day.

Team Ogun defeated Team Osun State 24-19 in a pulsating final that trilled the spectators who watched the game at the Basketball court of Lekan Salami sports complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

In the female category, Team Ekiti state was declared winner by the organisers after back to back victories over Team Osun state and Team Oyo state.

Our correspondent reports that Ikechukwu Igor of Team Ogun clinched the Most valuable player of the tournament in the male category, while Damilola Bakare emerged the Most valuable player in the female category.

Speaking after the tournament, Coaches of Team Ogun and Osun States, Martins Akindele and Taiwo Ajibola appreciated the organisers of the tournament, noting that it would help develop basketball game in Nigeria.

Chief Executive Officer and Founder, Hoop Dreams Nigeria Basketball academy, Mr Damola Awosika said the tournament was aimed at identifying young talents and grooming them to becoming future stars.

Mr Awosika, who said this year’s tournament was the ninth edition, noted that the academy also organizes a weekly basketball tournament to discover new talents.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Students in Ibadan Express Excitement Over Sporting Activities

By Web News 225 0

By Dayo Adu

As part of activities marking the Children’s Day celebration, school children in Ibadan were treated to sporting activity at the Olubadan stadium .

The football novelty match which had in attendance school children from private schools and their parents experienced the frills and thrills of the round leather game as the participating teams displayed their talents and skills on the pitch.

Bukunmi Faniran displayed exceptional skills by scoring two goals to give his FC challenge team a lead over their counterpart from The Concord School.

The match which was played in junior ended in three goals to one with a braze from Jomiloju Babalola while Aanu Emmanuel scored the only goal for The Concord School.

In other matches played, Lead city secondary school team won the concord school team won both the intermediate and senior categories with one goal to Nill and five goals to one respectively.

Some of the children who spoke with radio Nigeria expressed excitement at the activity, saying it would boost their aspirations in life.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Ogun Holds National Cyclists Parent Forum Competition

By Web News 224 0

By Olusegun Folarin

Over fifty cyclists from three states in the southwest region of the country have converged on Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital to participate in the maiden edition of National Cyclists Parent Forum Competition.

Speaking at the flag-off of the competition in Abeokuta, the Cycling Head Coach in Ogun State, Mr Kamoli Amao explained that the competition was organised with support of the parents to celebrate the 2024 Children’s day.

Coach Amao noted the cycling competition was also put together to prepare the young athletes ahead of the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State later in the year.

The Ogun State Cycling Head Coach, who noted that the development of sports at the grassroots level should not be shoulder on government alone, commended the efforts of the parents and other stakeholders towards making the competition a huge success.

Some of the parents including, Messers Gafar Odebiyi, Marcus Ugboduma and Michael Adeniyi said the competition was needed to discover talented young athletes that would replacing the ageing ones.

A four-year-old Olanma Ugboduma who emerged overall best in the kids’ category said her desire was to bring laurels to the country at international competitions.

Other athletes who took part in the cycling competition including Amao Malik, Shindara Adeleke, Ibidun Odebiyi and Azeezat Amirah thanked their parents for encouraging them to participate in maiden of the cycling competition.

Highpoint of the competition was the presentation of medals, books and certificates to the athletes.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

FA Cup Final: Manchester United Shock Manchester City 2-1

By Web News 1275 0

By Maxwell Oyekunle

Manchester United ended a poor season on a huge high as the team secure a shock FA Cup final win against rivals Manchester City.

Manchester United upset Manchester City 2-1 in the final of the FA Cup, held at Wembley Stadium, London, England on Saturday.

In a match which most people expected to be a foregone conclusion, United showed their mettle by beating favourites and ending City’s hopes of becoming the first team in history to repeat as Premier League and the FA Cup winners in consecutive years.

By winning the FA Cup, United have received passage into next season’s Europa League.

Alejandro Garnacho put United ahead following a mix-up between City’s Josko Gvardiol and Stefan Ortega.

Fellow teenager, Kobbie Mainoo slotted in the second following a slick team move and an exquisite pass from United captain Bruno Fernandez.

Jeremy Doku scored for Manchester City in the later stages to set up a nervy ending to the match.

City looked the more threatening side in the manner in which they commanded possession and dominated the United end.

However, United were clinical with the precious few chances they were afforded to finish as victors.

With this victory United are now 13-time winners of the FA Cup, just one behind Arsenal with the most FA Cup titles by a single club.

The English season officially comes to a close with City just missing out on becoming the first English side to achieve consecutive doubles.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

NSF: FG Confirms Kick-off Date

By Web News 375 0

By Olusegun Folarin

The Federal Government has approved January, 2025, as the official month for the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged, “Gateway Games, Ogun 2024”.

The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh announced the date in a communique issued at the end of the first National Council on Sports, held in Abakaliki, Enugu State

Senator Enoh noted that the National Sports Festival played a vital role in national unity, while also increasing socio-economic growth for the sustainable development of the state and the country in general.

He called on the Federal and state governments to bid and host national and international sports competitions, to fast-track the development of sports in the country.

While urging all key stakeholders to play active roles towards the successful hosting of the Gateway Games, the Sports Minister informed that the Council of Sports was in support of the establishment of Sports Development and Investment Fund, NSIDF, for its attendant benefits in driving sports development in Nigeria.

Fielding questions from journalists shortly after meeting, Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka, expressed the state government’s readiness to host the successful Festival.

Mr Isiaka noted that the NSF embodied capacity to bring people together, foster teamwork, cooperation, instil values of discipline and perseverance, encouraging youths to embrace sports for socio-economic development of the state, adding that targeted funding and incentives were crucial for driving grassroots sports engagements and ensuring the sustainability of sports programmes.

Sport

Brazil Wins Hosting Rights for 2027 Women’s World Cup

By Web News 253 0

The Women’s World Cup will take place in South America for the first time after Brazil was chosen to host the 2027 edition at a FIFA congress Friday marked by debate about the war in Gaza.

After the success of Australia and New Zealand last year, FIFA members picked Brazil over a European bid in a push to expand women’s football to new continents.

Delegates while meeting in Bangkok voted 119 votes to 78 to send the 10th Women’s World Cup to the land of Samba Football, beating a joint bid from Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany.

The decision sparked celebrations from the Brazilian bid team.

Brazilian Football Confederation President, Ednaldo Rodrigues, hailed it as a “victory for Latin American football and for women’s football in Latin America”.

Brazil, home of women’s football great Marta, scored higher than its European rival in FIFA’s evaluation report.

FIFA inspectors had noted that South America hosting the Women’s World Cup would have “tremendous impact on women’s football in the region”.

Brazil’s bid includes 10 stadiums used for the men’s World Cup in 2014, with Rio de Janeiro’s famous Maracana lined up for the opening match and final.

But work needs to be done, in particular to the Amazonia stadium in Manaus which has stood almost unused for a decade.

Unlike their male counterparts, who have won five World Cups, Brazil’s women have never lifted the trophy and made a group-stage exit in 2023.

The 74th FIFA Congress, which was making its debut in Thailand, made its choice by open vote for the first time as the organisation seeks to move on from the corruption and shady dealing that dogged it in the past.

Delegates had their choice simplified last month when the United States and Mexico withdrew their joint bid, deciding instead to focus on trying to win the right to stage the 2031 edition.

As the Brazil tournament approaches, the focus will be on the huge financial disparity between men’s and women’s football.

Prize money for the 2023 Women’s World Cup was a record $110 million, but that was still far short of the $440 million on offer to teams at the 2022 men’s finals in Qatar.

The congress also heard a call from the Palestinian FA (PFA) to suspend Israel from the world body and ban Israeli teams from FIFA events.

PFA head Jibril Rajoub said the Israeli FA (IFA) had broken FIFA rules, adding: “FIFA cannot afford to remain indifferent to these violations or to the ongoing genocide in Palestine.”

His Israeli counterpart Shino Moshe Zuares rejected the call as “cynical, political and hostile”, insisting the IFA had not broken any FIFA rules.

FIFA supremo Gianni Infantino said the body would take independent legal advice on the matter and decide by July 20 what action to take, if any.

2023 Women’s World Cup Showed Improved Standards

Last year’s tournament set records, including earning $570 million in commercial revenue.

On the pitch it defied fears that increasing the size from 24 to 32 teams would dilute the spectacle, with over 1.4 million fans streaming through the turnstiles to witness a host of shocks.

Gone were the lopsided scorelines that were a feature of previous World Cups, reflecting a growth in the standard of women’s football.

Seven teams notched their first World Cup wins and the United States and Germany, who between them had won six of the previous eight tournaments, were both dumped out early.

AFP/Punch/Maxwell Oyekunle

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Ogun Urges Parents to Nurture Talented Children

By Web News 271 0

By Olusegun Folarin 

Towards ensuring the growth and development of budding talents in their formative years, Ogun State government has reiterated its commitment to sports development, especially for the youth in the state.

Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, made this known at the 2nd Edition of the Prince Dapo Abiodun Closed Table Tennis Championship for secondary schools in Ogun State, at Ijeja Stadium, Abeokuta.

Mr. Talabi, who noted that the game of Table Tennis promotes mental alertness, smartness and improving reflexes, encouraged parents of talented children in secondary schools to nurture and support their wards with the right incentives, to help them to stardom.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka had appreciated Governor Dapo Abiodun for the various initiatives in the sector which he noted would ultimately reposition sports and sporting activities in the State.

Mr Isiaka pointed out that school sports would continue to play a pivotal role in the nurturing of genuine budding talents, thereby curbing social vices in secondary schools, advising participants not to relent, but strive harder on their way to the global stage.

 Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Duke, Duchess of Sussex Arrive Nigeria

By Web News 288 0

… To Engage the Nation’s Wounded and Injured soldiers

The Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex have arrived at the Nigerian Armed Forces’ Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

The Duke and Duchess arrived the DHQ at about 12:45 pm on Friday.

The military high command had on Thursday revealed that their visit to Nigeria will focus on engaging with the nation’s wounded and injured soldiers and their families.

Prince Harry’s decision to visit Nigeria followed an invite by the military high command following the nation’s debut appearance at the 2023 Invictus Games, held in Düsseldorf, Germany.

The Invictus Games, founded by Prince Harry In 2014 is an international multi-sport event for Wounded, Injured and Sick military personnel that offers support, recovery pathways and rehabilitation for the personnel, post-injury.

According to the Director of Sports, Defence Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal, Abidemi Marquis, “80 per cent” of the nation’s soldiers have been involved in the recovery programme and “are doing better”.

“The focal point of the visit is for the wounded and injured soldiers as a result of our engagement in counterterrorism operations,” Marquis said, noting that part of his visit would entail interacting with the WIS military personnel which will in turn boost their mental health and self-esteem.

The military high command also hopes to host the Invictus Games in Nigeria and believes that Prince Harry’s visit will facilitate the establishment of the proposed Invictus Games Centre in Abuja, and a collaborative effort with the Foundation to gain knowledge of the recovery programme.

This centre according to Marquis, will be built and equipped to provide a holistic service for the management of the WIS military personnel.

The proposed centre, according to him would also accommodate a medical centre and a mini hotel for their families during the recovery programme. It is also designed to accommodate a sporting centre.

Speaking to journalists earlier, Prince Harry’s friend and Director at the Invictus Games Foundation, David Wiseman commented on the significance of the trip.

Wiseman said, “We’re going over to Nigeria over the next few days and we’re going over to see the progress that’s being made with regards to establishing and developing sports recovery in that nation and celebrating that incredible progress that they have been made.”

The DHQ expressed its delight to host the Duke, and his wife, Meghan who in 2022, told listeners to her Archetype podcast that she was “43 per cent Nigerian” after doing a genealogy test.

Interestingly, at the opening ceremony of the 2023 Invictus Games in Germany, Prince Harry referred to the podcast as he hailed Nigeria along with Colombia and Israel for sending its first delegation to the games for WIS military personnel.

Meghan was seen seated near the Nigeria team whom she previously revealed she was supporting. The Sussexes later met the members of the team, and both were presented with a plaque from the nation’s military high command.

Meghan was given a Nigerian title name — Amira Ngozi Lolo — Amira meaning a warrior princess — Ngozi meaning Blessed and Lolo, a royal wife.

Punch/Oluwayemisi Owonikoko

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Ogun Promotes Scrabble to Motivate Coaches, Players

By Web News 221 0

By Olusegun Folarin

Ogun State Government has renewed its commitment to the development of Scrabble to encourage coaches and discover more players, to consolidate the state’s successes in the game.

The State Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka, who gave the reassurance at the closing ceremony of the 2nd National Scrabble Festival, held at Ijebu-Ode, noted that the State had changed the narrative of Scrabble administration in the country through investments in Scrabble equipment, provision of playing halls, investment in players, amongst others.

He stated that as one of the games to be played at the upcoming National Sports Festival, scrabble requires passion and strategic thinking, appreciating the organizers for their dedication and devotion towards making the festival a huge success.

Mr Isiaka revealed that the State Government, through the State Scrabble Association provided logistics which include accommodation, breakfast, and a playing venue, amongst others, which would not only ensure a serene environment for the festival but also provide a comfortable and memorable experience for the entire duration of the Festival

He added that the passion of the players, for words and competition was truly inspiring.

The Sports Development commissioner encouraged the participants to continue practicing, learning, and growing in the game of Scrabble, imploring the contestants to let the competition serve as motivation to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Abiodun Appoints Chess Master, Tunde Onakoya as Sports Ambassador

By Web News 272 0

By Wuraola Bamgbose

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has appointed Tunde Onakoya, who holds Guinness world record for the longest marathon chess game, as youth and sports ambassador of the state.

The governor also promised that the game of chess would be given priority during the forthcoming 2024 National Sports Festival, NSF, taking place in the state

Governor Abiodun, who let this out while playing host to the chess Guinness world record holder at Okemosan, Abeokuta said the state government would put the necessary machinery in place towards the promotion of the game by supporting Tunde Onakoya’s chess foundation and also set up chess competition right from the local government to the state level in order to encourage youth participation 

Commending the parent of Tunde Onakoya for giving him the rightful upbringing, the state helmsman urged the youths to emulate the resilience, perseverance, and dedication demonstrated by the world chess champion as they forge ahead in life 

Earlier, Mr Tunde Onakoya in a remark applauded Governor Dapo Abiodun for honouring him, stating that he would use his position as the world renowned chess player to institute various programs to promote the game among the youths in Ogun state and the nation at large

Mr Tunde Onakoya on April 17, embarked on a vision to break the world record aimed at empowering the illiterate children across Africa through his feat which he successfully achieved on April 20 at Times Square in New York City, United States of America by playing for sixty hours non-stop and won all the games

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Plan afoot to change the face of Muda Lawal Stadium – Ogun Govt.

By Web News 467 0

By Olusegun Folarin 

Ogun State Government has renewed its determination to support initiatives and programmes towards the development of youths through Sports.

Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka stated this during the kick off of Egba Youth Football Championship at the Muda Lawal Stadium, Asero, Abeokuta.

Mr Isiaka, who noted that government could not shoulder the responsibilities in the development of sports alone, reaffirmed the present administration’s readiness to continue to encourage stakeholders to key into various government’s programmes in repositioning sports especially football.

Mr Isiaka announced that plans were underway to change the face of Muda Lawal Stadium Asero Abeokuta and commended the organisers of Egba Youth Football Championship for their consistency 

In the opening games of the competition, Oluwole Senior defeated Mighty Stars by a lone goal, Debash From Ijebu ode were also one nil better over Ajegunle All Stars, Toyin Amuzu football team beat United FC by three goals to one while Gbench Achievers defeated AR United by two goals to nothing.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Chess Marathon: Tunde Onakoya Pushes for 60-hour to Dust Own 58-Hour Record

By Web News 646 0

Nigerian chess master, Tunde Onakoya, on Saturday set a new Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess.

The chestmaster confirmed this in a post on his official X account.

He wrote, “We have done it.

“We’re pushing to 60 hours guys. We’re not stopping yet. Let’s keep going.

“We have a fundraising goal to meet for the education of African children around the world. This is our why – the reason we are doing this.

“Let’s demonstrate to the world the incredible power of love. Together, we can make this happen.

Onakoya broke the record of Norwegian players Hallvard Haug Flatebø and Sjur Ferkingstad, who played for 56-hour, 9-minute in 2018 and aimed at reaching the 58-hour target.

The challenge, which is underway at New York City’s iconic Times Square, has currently exceeded 56 hours and a few minutes and already set him adrift of the previous record holders.

The new record holder said his attempt was to raise funds and awareness for providing educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Africa.

In a statement by his foundation, Chess in Slums Africa, Onakoya said he will be joined by his US counterpart, Shawn Martinez.

It read in part, “This record attempt requires a team of two players. Tunde Onakoya (NG) will be facing off against Shawn Martinez (US) for the challenge. Both players hold the title of National Masters.

“Shawn Martinez, a US National Master, renowned New York City chess legend, and chess coach, poses as a formidable adversary. Both Tunde Onakoya and Shawn Martinez will hold the record title.”

“This record is for the longest time to continuously play chess. This record is to be mentioned in hours, minutes, and seconds. This record is to be attempted by a team of two players,” it added.

After about 23 hours into the game, Martinez joined to make the new world record.

Meanwhile, Nigerians, including President Bola Tinubu, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Singer Davido, and Adekunle Gold, have all shown support for Onakoya to break the new record.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Harness Potential of Sports, SWAN Tells Ogun Govt.

By Web News 268 0

By Olusegun Folarin 

The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN, Ogun State Chapter has implored the state government to harness the potentials in sports to achieve sustainable peace, especially in the area of insecurity occasioned by cult clashes.

SWAN Chairman, Comrade Micheal-Azeez Ogunsiji made the call in a statement signed by his Secretary, Olusegun Folarin to commemorate the 2024 International Day of Sports for Peace Development.

Comrade Ogunsiji who described sports as an important weapon to promote the economic well-being of individuals said there was s a need for the present administration to invest more in sports for the overall development of the state.

He appealed to the government to organize sporting activities among the tertiary institutions as well as secondary schools across the 20 local government areas of the state to bring about development and promote peaceful coexistence in the state.

The SWAN Chairman also encouraged the government to key into the activities of the association such as the SWAN Security Cup, the SWAN Media Cup which he said were designed to sustain the existing relationships among various bodies in the state.

He frowned at the slow pace of preparation for the 2024 National Sports Festival hoping that the state would not eventually lose the hosting right to Oyo state if it becomes evident that she is not ready to host.

He charged the sports ministry in the state to embark on a talent hunt programme among primary and secondary schools in the state to discover abundant talents spread across the length and breadth of the state.

Comrade Ogunsiji equally called on Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration to invest heavily in the sports sector of the state and put in place a thorough sports development roadmap that would position the state as a hub for talent discovery.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Investment in Sports is Game Changer, Enthusiasts Tell Administrators

By Web News 349 0

By Segun Folarin

Sports administrators should invest resources in regional competitions to foster peace and promote national development.

A cross-section of sports enthusiasts canvassed this in Abeokuta while speaking with Radio Nigeria on the occasion of the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace. 

Correspondent Olusegun Folarin reports that the sports lovers were optimistic that, if harnessed effectively, sports would help to check criminal tendencies among the youths.

Sport remains a universal language and powerful tool to promote peace, tolerance and understanding and is capable of bringing people together across boundaries, cultures and religions.

The United Nations’ proclamation of 6th April every year as International Day of Sports for Development and Peace is an opportunity to recognize the positive roles of sports and physical activities in the lives of individuals and communities, across the globe.

In Nigeria, sports, especially football, had over the years proved to be a unifying factor, connecting the citizens, regardless of tribal, ethnic and religious beliefs.

A vivid example was the passionate support shown by Nigerians during the African Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire where the people rose in support of the Super Eagles despite the prevailing economic challenges confronting the nation.

In separate contributions, Acting General Manager, Gateway United Football Club, Mr Niyi Soleye and a Sports Administrator, Alhaji Adeniji Adebayo affirmed that there had been situations where sports championships were organized among local communities as part of efforts to broker peace and settle disagreements. 

Also, the President, the Wheelchair Basketball Federation of Nigeria, Mr Seyi Johnson and a Sports Psychologist, Pastor Paul Bankole, who advocated increased attention by the government, said sports could enhance the social and economic status of individuals, especially the physically challenged, in the bid to reduce Street begging.

A  former National Publicity Secretary of the Society for Peace Studies and Practice, Dr Ademolu Okuneye described sports as a powerful instrument that could be deployed in resolving conflicts in communities and also serve as economic advancement in the society.

Other contributors also applauded the global theme for this year’s International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, “Sports for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies”, noting the need for relevant authorities to promote public-private partnerships aimed at ensuring sustainable growth in the sports industry.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Gateway FC Continue Winning Streak in NNL

By Web News 815 0

By Olusegun Folarin 

Gateway United have increased their unbeaten run to seven in the Nigeria National League, NNL, following a 2-1 win over Inter Lagos Football Club.

Odusina Sunkanmi got the first goal for Gateway United in the 45 minutes of the encounter played at the MKO International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta.

The Samson Omiponle tutored Gateway United players continued from where they left in the first half; their efforts paid off in the 65 minutes when Eddidon Adrian converted from the penalty spot to double Gateway United’s lead.

With 10 minutes remaining, Akinola Wale pulled one back for the visitors with a header, but Oladeji Joshua ensured the scoreline remained the same by saving a free kick. 

Speaking with Journalists after the game, Coach Samson Omiponle praised his team’s character, resilience, and grit, expressing excitement and confidence in their ability to secure a playoff spot. 

Coach Omiponle expressed optimism that his boys would pick the maximum points away, against the only team to beat them at home, FC One Rocket in Akwa Ibom.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Beyond Limits, Remo Stars Ladies, Lift Ogun Federation Cup

By Web News 560 0

By Olusegun Folarin

Beyond Limits Football Academy and Remo Stars Ladies are the 2024 Ogun State Federation Cup competition champions in the male and female categories respectively.

Beyond Limits Football Academy trounced their fellow Nigeria National League, NNL side, Stormers Football Club by three goals to two in the final played at the MKO International Stadium, Kuto to emerge champions in the male category.

Both teams displayed their skills to the admiration of the soccer fans who trooped out in large numbers to watch the game.

Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka and other key players in the industry were also in attendance to watch the game.

In the female category, Remo Stars Ladies beat Castmong Football Team by a lone goal to lift the trophy.

Speaking with Journalists, Coach Ajibolade Olumide of Beyond Limits Football Academy said the team’s victory in the Ogun State Federation Cup was a testament to their development philosophy.

Coach Ajibolade said he would be glad to contribute his quota to the development of the younger ones if allowed to coach the national under-17 side, the Golden Eaglets.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group

Sport

Gateway FC Drub Warri Wolves Four Nil

By Web News 377 0

By Olusegun Folarin 

It was a massive home victory for Gateway United Football Club of Ogun State following an impressive four-nil win over visiting Warri Wolves in week 12 of the Nigeria National League, NNL, encounter.

The four goals were scored in the second half of the game played at the MKO International Stadium, Kuto Abeokuta after both teams failed to convert the chances created in the first 45 minutes.

Odusina Sunkanmi fired Gateway United into the lead with a stunning finish in the 50th minute of the game after the diminutive forward connected with a cross at the back post.

Babatunde Taofeek got the second for the home team in the 55th minute of the encounter before Babatunde Damilare and Wasiu Falolu increased the tally to three and four goals in the 71st and 78th minutes of the game.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria after the game, Coach Samson Omiponle who attributed the victory to players’ dedication and hard work commended the management and fans for their support for the team.

Coach Omiponle promised to approach the next game away to Tradesafe football team with a renewed vigour and winning mentality.

Subscribe to our Telegram and YouTube Channels and also join our Whatsapp Update Group