Showing posts with label Nigerian Premier League. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nigerian Premier League. Show all posts

Tuesday, 4 October 2016

Onigbinde urges Rangers to sustain their NPFL momentum

Former Super Eagles coach, Adegboye Onigbinde, has advises the 2015/2016 Nigeria Professional Football League champions, Enugu Rangers, to sustain their new momentum.

The Flying Antelopes won the NPFL on Sunday I'm front of their home fans after 32 years of waiting.

“I want to congratulate them [Enugu Rangers] for their effort and great achievement,” Onigbinde told Goal.

“It takes strong determination, discipline and focus to achieve such success.

“I hope they will be regular at achieving this performance again and come back to their parmanent position in the league.

“This can be best achieved through proper planning, programming, coaching and logistics”, he added.

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Sunday, 29 May 2016

Joseph Yobo conferred with chieftaincy title in Ogoniland

The former Super Eagles’ skipper has been made a chief in his home town following his exploits for the country.

Former Nigeria defender Joseph Yobo has been conferred with a chieftaincy title in Ogoniland.

The honour was bestowed on him a day after he was given a grand exit from professional football by a stellar collection of football stars like Samuel Eto’o,Austin Okocha, Sulley Muntari, Stephen Appiah, Lomana Lualua and Laryea Kingston during his testimonial in Port Harcourt.

Yobo was conferred with the title of Mene Aborlo 1 of Ogoniland by King GNK Gininwa, with his wife Adaeze given the Waamene Aborlo 1 of Ogoni land.

"Honored to be conferred the title Mene Aborlo 1 of Ogoniland by my King, HRH GNK Gininwa and people#chiefyobo," he tweeted.

Honored to be conferred the title Mene Aborlo 1 of Ogoniland by my King, HRH GNK Gininwa and people#chiefyobopic.twitter.com/WVQwhnenJQ

— Joseph Yobo (@jyobo234)May 29, 2016.

The former Nigeria international defender made his Super Eagles debut against Zambia in a 2002 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on 24 March, 2001 in Chingola, Zambia.

He went on to amass 101 international caps, scoring seven goals in a career that spanned 13 years where he featured at three Fifa World Cups and six Afcon tournaments, leading Nigeria to victory in his last outing in South Africa.

He posted on Instagram:

A photo posted by Joseph Yobo (@jyobo234) on May 28, 2016 at 11:16pm PDT


A photo posted by Joseph Yobo (@jyobo234) onMay 28, 2016 at 10:41pm PDT

A photo posted by Joseph Yobo (@jyobo234) onMay 28, 2016 at 11:12pm PDT





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Saturday, 28 May 2016

Man City congratulate Kelechi Iheanacho after First Super Eagles Goal

The Citizens celebrated the wonderkid's finish to down Mali in an international friendly on Friday Manchester City have congratulated Nigeria wonder kid Kelechi Iheanacho as his late goal downed Mali on Friday.

The 19-year-old forward—who has been one of the revelations of the Premier League season—made his Super Eagles debut in a World Cup qualifier against Swaziland in November 2015, but had to wait until this weekend's international friendly to break his international duck.

Congratulations @67Kelechion your winning goal!#mcfchttps://t.co/0smzM9Cj6R
— Manchester City FC (@MCFC) May 27, 2016

With Nigeria's bout against their west African neighbours in Rouen was seemingly destined for a 0-0 draw, before Iheanacho was picked out by Michael Babatunde in the 77th minute and made little mistake with a sharp close-range finish.

"Congratulations Kelechi on your winning goal," wrote City on their official@MCFC Twitter handle, in acknowledgement of the youngster's strike.

Iheanacho has been a ray of light for the Citizens during a testing season at the Etihad Stadium, and while he struggled to impress in the Champions League, he scored eight goals in just 753 Premier League minutes—spread over 26 appearances, of which seven were starts.

The teenage sensation will surely be hoping to add to his tally when the Super Eagles meet Luxembourg in Luxembourg City on Tuesday.
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Friday, 27 May 2016

Siasia names Okechukwu, Awoniyi, 18 others for Suwon pre-Olympics tournament| See Full Squad

The Nigeria U23 coach has announced his invitations forthe Korea championship that is a precursor to Rio 2016 where they will play against Denmark and Honduras.

Nigeria U23 coach Samson Siasia has selected 20 players made up of 12 home-based and eight overseas-based professionals for next month’s Suwon Invitational Tournament in South Korea where they will face the hosts, Honduras and Denmark.

The list is dominated by players who featured against the Brazil U23 side in a friendly in two months ago, which Nigeria won 1-0, while two new faces Emiloju Julius and Abdulrahman Taiwo break into the team, and winger Saviour Godwin also makes a return to the team after a long absence.

Addressing the players after the friendly game on Thursday at the practice pitch of the National Stadium, Abuja, Siasia charged those selected for the trip to see itas an honour.

“That you were selected does not mean that those not selected are not good. We simply want to give everyone enough opportunity to justify why they should be part of the team to the Rio Olympics."

To those who were dropped, Siasia told them not to see themselves as not being part of the plans of the technical crew, but a clarion call to work even harder, as the team will be going to the United States of America for its final camping exercise where the best will be selected for the Olympics.

The delegation of 20 players and 10 officials will be led by NFF Executive Committee member and Chairman of the NFF Media and Publicity Committee, Hon. Suleiman Yahaya-Kwande.

The group is expected to depart Nigeria for Korea Republic on Monday, 30th May aboard an Ethiopian Airline flight, and arrive in Seoul on Tuesday.

Full Squad

Goalkeepers:- Emmanuel Daniel, Yusuf Mohammed, Emmanson Daniel

Defenders:- Sincere Seth, Ndifreke Effiong, Segun Oduduwa, Stanley Amuzie, Julius Emiloju, Erhun Obanor, Saturday Erimuya

Midfielders:- Azubuike Okechukwu, Usman Mohammed, Stanley Dimgba, Sodiq Popoola, Saviour Godwin

Forwards:- Taiwo Awoniyi, Ubong Ekpai, Abdulrahman Taiwo, Nathan Oduwa, Tiongoli Tonbara,
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Okocha, Eto’o, Kanu, Moyes, Muntari, Paw Paw honour Joseph Yobo in Port Harcourt testimonial

The former Nigeria captain was given a befitting exit from the game on Friday evening by a coterie of stars in Port Harcourt.

Joseph Yobo was given a grand exit from professional football by a stellar collection of football stars and legends during his testimonial in Port Harcourt on Friday.

Illustrious African stars Samuel Eto’o, Sulley Muntari, Stephen Appiah, Lomana Lualua and Laryea Kingston were joined by former Nigeria players Nwankwo Kanu, Austin Okocha, Mutiu Adepoju, Austin Eguavoen and Ben Iroha to celebrate the 101-cap Yobo.

A Team Nigeria composed of current footballers VincentEnyeama, Ahmed Musa, Emmanuel Emenike, Godfrey Oboabona, Efe Ambrose, Joel Obi was coached by legendary Amodu Shaibu and Samson Siasia.

They took on Team World led by Eto’o and coached by former Everton and Manchester United manager David Moyes, who was assisted by former Nigeria youth coachFanny Amun.

However, Chelsea duo of John Terry and John Obi Mikel were missing after it was announced that they were going to be available for the game.

Before the game, Yobo was presented with a commemorative trophy and a jersey marked '101' by NFF2nd Vice President  Shehu Dikko, who also played in the game.

After a prolonged delay to the start of the game which led to anxiety in the stands and agitated guest of honour Nyesom Wike, governor of Rivers State, Yobo started in defence for Team World as they swiftly fell behind to a brace from Emenike after impressive work by Okocha in midfield.

Muntari and Eto’o would score for Team World, the Cameroonian making Enyeama grovel which led to a comic chase of the striker.

Eto’o would be involved in the other funny scene when he asked Okocha to be substituted due to the midfielder’s stunning skills which continuously prised open his side.

The first half ended 4-3 with Yobo scoring just before the break to keep the scores close.
Yobo switched sides at resumption as Kanu, funnyman Ayo Makun (AY) and former goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu all came on.

He played two penalties against Dele Ayenugba, missed the first and scored the second to make it 5-3.

The game was turned around when pint-sized actor Osita Iheme (Paw paw) was freed by an Eto’o pass and he shot past Shorunmu to make it 5-4 as the crowd cheered in wild applause.
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Friendly: Nigeria 1 vs 0 Mali| Highlights Download

The Manchester City man scored for the Super Eagles in Friday’s friendly in Rouen as the former African champions began preparations for the 2018 World Cup.

Nigeria defeated Mali 1-0 in Friday’s international friendlyin Rouen, France, with substitute Kelechi Iheanacho getting his first goal for the Super Eagles as they began preparations for their 2018 World Cup qualifiers.

The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in their last game in March and it was important to get a positive result from this game.

Coach Salisu Yusuf chose to keep Iheanacho on the bench while he handed starting places to Alex Iwobi, Odion Ighalo and Moses Simon in attack.

William Troost-Ekong also made it into the team despite his Norwegian cup game as he paired with Leon Balogun who also returned to the side.

Musa Muhammed and Kingsley Madu started in the full back positions as Ogenyi Onazi captained the side in theabsence of both John Obi Mikel and Ahmed Musa.

Etebo Oghenekaro and Shehu Abdullahi played in midfield and Carl Ikeme returned to goal after missing Nigeria’s last game against Egypt due to stomach cramps.

There was to be no goal in the first half and coach Salisumade key change of personnel afterwards.

He brought on striker Brown Ideye for his first Super Eagles appearance for more than three years as well as Michael Babatunde and Raheem Lawal.

Defender Gbenga Arokoyo also came on late for his debut.

It was substitute Iheanacho, on for Iwobi, who scored for the Nigerians after an assist by Babatunde in the 77th minute.

Nigeria would play another friendly with Luxembourg on May 31 in continuation of preparations for the Russia 2018 qualifiers.

Download Clip
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Wednesday, 25 May 2016

Schweinsteiger 'right on schedule' for Euro 2016

Germany captain Bastian Schweinsteiger is confident he will be fully fit to lead his country at Euro 2016.
The Manchester United midfielder has not played since March due to a knee injury.
Louis van Gaal said of the issue in April: "Schweinsteiger is a tragic injury because the expectation is not so good for him in respect of the European Championship, but you never know."
Regardless, Joachim Low has included his skipper in a 27-man provisional squad that must be cut to 23 by next week.
And Schweinsteiger is confident that he will be able to prove his fitness sufficiently to take part in the tournament.
"I am fine and I am right on schedule," he told a news conference. 
"I live for that schedule hour after hour. Ahead of the World Cup 2014 the situation was worse. I will be ready.
"Of course injuries are always a setback. But I don't know the phrase 'to give up'.
"Every opponent will be very motivated against us. As world champions it will be even harder."
Low hailed Schweinsteiger's dedication in training, and also confirmed that Mats Hummels' preparation will be hampered by an injury - though the soon-to-be Bayern Munich defender is not in doubt for the final squad.
"Physically he is doing everything he can," Low said of Schweinsteiger. "Sometimes he is training three times per day.
"Mats Hummels suffered a minor muscle injury in his thigh. But the tournament is not in danger for him."

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Tuesday, 24 May 2016

Caf Champions League group stage draw in full: Enyimba draw Zamalek, Al Ahly face Asec Mimosas

Paul Aigbogun's side will take on the five-time African champions while Al Ahly take on Cote d'Ivoire's Asec Mimosas.

Enyimba will face Zamalek in the group stages of the Caf Champions League having been drawn together in Group B.

The People's Elephants will also face ES Setif and Sundowns as they look to plot a way through to the knockout stages for the third African crown.

Meanwhile eight-time champions Al Ahly will take on Asec Mimosas, Zesco United and Wydad Casablanca in Group A .

The People's Elephants host the Egyptians in their first game of the competition on 17 June 2016.Each group is played on a home-and-away round-robin basis.

The winners and runners-up of each group advance to the semi-finals.

IN FULL

Group A: Zesco (Zambia), Al Ahly (Egypt), Asec Mimosas (Cote d'Ivoire), Wydad Casablanca (Morocco)

Group B:Enyimba (Nigeria), Zamalek (Egypt), ES Setif (Algeria), Sundowns (South Africa)
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Victor Moses ruled out of Nigeria friendlies

Victor Moses has been ruled out of his Nigeria’s friendlies with Mali and Luxembourg through fitness concerns.

The forward wrote to be excused following injuries coped from the just concluded English Premier League season and as a consequence would play no part in the games which serve as warm-up for the Fifa World Cup qualifier later this year.

Media officer Toyin Ibitoye confirmed this to Goal and said there would be not late replacement for the Chelsea player as the team is expected to depart for France on Tuesday night with cases of visa hitches resolved.

“He [Moses] wrote to complain about fitness, some few knocks he picked towards the end of the season and he wants to be excused,” Super Eagles media officer Toyin Ibitoye told Goal.

“As a professional, fitness issues should be taken very seriously.

 His wish has been granted and since it is a friendly match, we have other players available.

There is nothing to worry about because this will be a chance for other players to prove their worth.

“Aaron [Samuel] too will be out because he picked up an injury while playing for his club in a cup final.

It is a big miss because he is a very good player.

“For William Troost-Ekong, he is involved in a cup final in Norway but he will join the team after the game for the second friendly game against Luxemborg.

“Babatunde Michael was called up after Mikel Obi and Ahmed Musa were excused for Joseph Yobo testimonial.

So there won’t be any replacement because we have a good number of players to work with.

“Almost everybody is travelling tonight by 11.pm, while myself, Amodu Shuaibu and one other official will be travelling tomorrow,” he concluded.

This brings to four the number of invited players that would miss the game after striker Aaron Samuel and Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel and his deputy, Ahmed Musa released to attend the Joseph Yobo Testimonial.
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Monday, 23 May 2016

NPFL Re-cap: Sunshine Stars shock Abia Warriors in Umuahia

Shengolpixs
After match day 19 in the Nigerian Professional League, only Sunshine Stars of Akure took all three points away from home against Abia Warriors . Plateau, Pillars, Rangers and Heartland all played goalless draw.

Enyimba 1-0 Nasarawa United 
A brilliantly struck free kick by Chima Akas proved to be the difference as Enyimba FC pipped Nasarawa United 1-0 at the Umuahia Township Stadium in their Nigeria Professional Football League clash on Saturday. 
Neither side created any real chances in the first 25 minutes as both sides probed patiently for an opening without much success.
The first decent chance arrived in the 31 minute when Akas showed quality with his well delivered free-kick that gave goalkeeper Suraj Ayeleso no chance.
 
Nasarawa United put some pressure on the hosts after the break, with the likes of Emmanuel Makama and Philip Azango threatening the goal with strong shots.
 
The result increased Enyimba's unbeaten streak to eight in the ongoing league campaign. 

Enugu Rangers 0-0 Heartland FC 
Enugu Rangers and Heartland played to a goalless draw in a Nigeria Professional Football League clash at the Nnamdi Azikwe Stadium on Friday night.
Heartland keeper Ebele Obi was tested for the first time in the 26th minute when he saved a free kick from Chisom Egbuchulam.
Rangers continued to mount pressure on the visitors for the opening goal and in the 44th minute Egbuchulam saw his penalty kick saved by Obi, as the first-half ended goalless. 
Five minutes into the second-half Godwin Aguda was played through on goal, but Heartland skipper Chinedu Efugh managed to guide the striker wide and his effort missed the target.
The Naze Millionaires looked dangerous on the counter and on the hour-mark Isaac Loute's beautiful pass set Bright Ejike through on goal, but Itodo was at alert to save the situation.
Loute then whipped home a free kick, which was ruled out for offside by match referee Anietie Ferdinand Udoh.
Booby Clement burst into the box and forced Heartland shot-stopper Obi into a fantastic save at his near-post in the 72nd minute.
The hosts were awarded a set-piece on the right-hand side which was played into the Heartland box by Donou and his teammate Aguda headed it wide.


Wikki Tourists 3-0 Ikorodu United 
Wikki Tourists cruised to a 3-0 victory over Ikorodu United with Saidu Abdullahi hitting a brace and Hamza Tiya getting on the scoresheet.
It didn't take the home side long to find their passing rhythm on Sunday and they went ahead in the 19th minute as Idris Sabi played in Hamza, who made no mistake with the finish.
Wikki found themselves 2-0 ahead less than six minutes later when Saidu doubled the lead to put his side in a comfortable position going into half time.
The home side put the gloss on their performance with eighteen minutes left on the clock when Saidu added a third following good work from Ahmed Mohammed.

Abia Warriors 1-2 Sunshine Stars 
Sunshine Stars were victorious in their game against Abia Warriors at the Umuahia Township Stadium, running out 2-0 winners.
Razaq Adegbite's 45th minute strike was cancelled out by Obinna Eric Nwaimo effort in the 78th minute of action.
However, Dele Olorundare netted a 90th-minute winner to give the Akure side all three points on the road.
Adegbite opened the scoring for the Akure side when he capitalised on a defensive blunder by the home team to score.
Abia Warriors got themselves back in it when Nwaimo took advantage of a lapse in concentration from the away side to level things up.
With the game seemingly petering out for a draw, Olorundare popped up with a smart effort past the goalkeeper to give his side the win.

Warri Wolves 3-1 El-Kanemi Warriors 
Kelvin Itoya scored twice as Warri Wolves defeated El-Kanemi Warriors 3-1 at the Warri City Stadium.
Three goals in the space of 13 minutes helped the Seasiders to a comprehensive victory which moves them up to ninth in the NPFL table.
The hosts stormed out of the blocks and peppered their opponents' goal with shots early on. But they failed to score in the first half.
They took the lead in the 77th minute when substitute Itoya scored for them. 
Wolves doubled their advantage shortly afterwards. Itoya headed the ball beyond the goalkeeper for his first ever brace in the NPFL.
Two minutes from time it was 3-0, as Sikiru Alimi scored his third goal in three matches. 
Warriors did manage a consolation goal in response at injury time, but it did not make much difference in the end.

FC Ifeanyi Ubah 2-0 Niger Tornadoes 
FC Ifeanyi Ubah ran out 2-0 winners over Niger Tornadoes thanks to goals from Tamen Medrano and Nico Dao.
Medrano scored after 61 minutes to put the Anambra Warriors in front.
Dao doubled his side's lead in the dying moments of the game at the Ifeanyi Ubah Stadium.

Lobi Stars 1-0 Rivers United 
Chinonso Okonkwo missed a 93rd-minute penalty, as Rivers United narrowly lost 1-0 to Lobi Stars at the Aper Aku Stadium.
Sunday Akleche had given the Pride of Benue the lead in a difficult NPFL tie before the Okonkwo's spot kick miss.
Despite playing very well in the first stanza, the Akleche inspired Lobi Stars failed to score.
Lobi Stars continued to find it difficult in the second half until the 68th minute, when the impressive Akleche gave them the lead from the penalty spot.
The hosts were reduced to ten men when Solomon Kwambe earned his second booking in the 70th minute.
The visitors were awarded a spot kick in the final minute. Former Enyimba man Okonkwo failed to get his execution right and he missed from the spot.

Plateau United 0-0 Kano Pillars 
Plateau United were held to a 0-0 draw by Kano Pillars at the Rwang Pam Stadium this afternoon. 
Fan Lazarus had a decent chance for the visitors after eight minutes, but his shot was too far wide from the edge of the box.
The away team responded with a chance of their own through Emmanuel Edmond, but his angled drive was just wide after 13 minutes.
Manir Ubale fired in an ambitious effort for Pillars that went close on 51 minutes, before Silas was denied by the woodwork. 
Benjamin should have done better late in the match as the visitors held on for a draw in Jos.

Akwa United 2-0 Shooting Stars 
Akwa United squeezed past Shooting Stars 2-0 this evening to push them to fifth in the NPFL table.
Goals from Ubong Friday and Cyril Olisema were enough for the Promise Keepers at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
Friday opened the scoring after eight minutes when he poked home Ubong Ekpai's delivery.
United had their second two minutes after half hour when Olisema capitalized on the lapses of the away side's defenders to score.
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Saturday, 21 May 2016

AFCON U20 Qualifiers: Flying Eagles sink Burundi in Bujumbura

Coach Emmanuel Amuneke’s boy began their quest for a placein Zambia 2017 with a win against the Young Swallows in the War.

Nigeria U20 defeated Burundi 1-0 in the second round, first leg qualifier of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations U20 tournament.

Agor Chukwudi’s 64th minute strike handed the Flying Eagles a valuable away win at the Louis Rwagasore Stadium, Bujumbura.

The hosts who reached this stage following the withdrawal of DR Congo in the first round came into the encounter to upstage the defending champions dominated by the 2015 class that won the Fifa U17 World Cup in Chile.

After a scoreless first half, Chukwudi pulled the trigger 19 minutes on resumption of the second half and held on firmly to secure victory.

The second leg holds on June 11 at the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar.Winner of the game on aggregate will face Sudan in the final qualifying round to book a place in the competition billed to hold in Zambia.

Nigeria are defending champions of the competition having won the 2015 edition staged in Senegal.
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Friday, 20 May 2016

Seydou Keita missing in Mali’s squad to face Nigeria on May 27

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Coach Alain Giresse has named a strong squad to face the Super Eagles in next week's international friendly with the legendary skipper not making the cut.

Mali have announced a sturdy 23-man team to face Nigeria in May 27th international friendly billed for Stade Robert Dichon, France.

Coach Alain Giresse’s squad is made up of three local based professionals and 20 foreign based players without inspirational skipper Seydou Keita.

The team is made up of three goalkeepers, seven defenders, seven midfielders and six forwards.Birama Toure, Molla Wague, Youssouf Kone and Tongo Doumbia were not picked for the crunch encounter while Werder Bremen's’ Sambou Yatabare is ruled out to injury.

The Super Eagles last faced the Eagles in February 2013, whenStephen Keshi’s men silenced Mali 4-1 in the semi-final of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia with Brown Ideye, Elderson Echiejile, Emmanuel Emenike and Ahmed Musa finding the back of the net with Cheick Diarra getting the consolation at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban

FULL LIST

Goalkeepers

Oumar Sissoko (Orleans, France), Djigui Diarra (Stade Malien, Mali)Aly Yirango (FC Challans, France).

Defenders

Salif Coulibaly ( TP Mazembe, DR Congo) and Cheick Keita (Virtues Entella, Italy)Maruis Hamed Assako (Eleven Creators, Mali), Hamari Traoré (Reims, France), Ousmane Coulibaly (Platanias, Greece) and Ousseynou Cissé (Beveren-Waaslande,Belgium) Mohamed Konate (Renaissance Berkane, Morocco).

Midfielders

Idrissa TraorĂ© (Vita Club, DR Congo), Bakary Sako (Crystal Palace, England) Abdoulaye Sissoko (Esperance Sportive of Tunisia) and Abdoulaye TraorĂ© (Djoliba AC, Mali) Mamoutou N’Diaye (Rs Antwerp, Belgium), Yacouba Sylla (Rennes, France), Abdou TraorĂ© (Bordeaux, France).

Forwards

Kalifa Coulibaly (Gent, Belgium), Cheick Tidiane Diabaté (Bordeaux, France), Moussa Doumbia (Rostov, Russia) TiécoroKeita (Paris FC, France) Modibo Maiga (Al Nasr Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), Abdoulaye Diaby (FC Bruges, Belgium).
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Giwa FC expelled from Nigerian Professional Football League

Giwa football club have been expelled from the Nigeria Professional Football League following the Jos based side’s failure to honour three league games.

League Management Company announced the expulsion of the Jos Elephants on Friday after the side failed to show up fortheir Week 18 clash against Enyimba on Wednesday.

The team was banished to Ilorin following a scuffle that erupted in their tie against Enugu Rangers in Jos.

Since, they failed to honour games against Wikki Tourist, Akwa United and defending champions Enyimba."

Giwa FC has been expelled from 2015/2016 Nigeria Professional Football league season," LMC wrote onTwitter."Giwa FC is in breach of the NPFL Framework & Rules for failing to honour three cumulative fixtures without acceptable reason."

Giwa FC was banished to Ilorin to play three consecutive home games after disturbances in its match day 12 game.

Giwa become the second club to be expelled from the league after Ocean Boys in 2012.
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Wednesday, 11 May 2016

Kano Pillars Accept N2.4m LMC Fine For Crowd Trouble

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Kano Pillars have resolved not to contest the League Management Company sanctions against the club for the unruly and violent conduct of their fans during last Wednesday’s Nigeria Professional Football League week seven rescheduled tie against Enyimba at the Sani Abacha Stadium, according to Complete sports

The management of the club agreed to pay the N2.4m fine imposed on them by the LMC within the stipulated time for multiple infractions by their fans.
Kano Pillars are also under close watch at home and are on a suspended two-match close door ban.

They have also been mandated to organise a good behavior seminar for their fans under the supervision of the LMC.

Fans of the club threw objects and also encroached the field of play during and after the game against Enyimba which they lost 2-1.

It was the first time they will fail to win a game at home this season.

The Sai Masu Gida will host Ikorodu United in a matchday 15 fixture on Sunday.
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Monday, 9 May 2016

NPFL Match Commissioner Nuhu Tanko Dies of Heart Failure


As a new wave of heart failures sweeps through the football world, the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) had its share of the tragedy on Monday with news that the match commissioner of Kano Pillars v Ikorodu United, Mr Nuhu Tanko, has passed on having succumbed to the disease,Goal reports.
Nasarawa state-born Tanko had successfully supervised the hitch-free NPFL tie played at the Sani Abacha Stadium on Sunday with the hosts coming out 2-1 winners, but was reportedly found dead in his hotel room before being rushed to the Murtala Mohammed Hospital in Kano this morning.
While speaking on the development, media officer of Kano Pillars, Idris Malikawa stated that autopsy reports revealed the late Tanko had died from hypertension.
“It is confirmed. He (Nuhu Tanko) is dead,”Malikawa said.
“He died a natural death. We took him to the hospital this morning and he was confirmed by the medical doctor in charge.
“The doctor said he died of hypertension due to high blood pressure,” he concluded.
The Nigerian league also confirmed the administrator’s death via their Twitter handle (@NPFLHistory).

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CAF Sanctions Nigeria for Overcrowding and Poor Security


The Confederation of African Football (Caf) has punished Nigeria for the overcrowding of the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna during the March 25 clash against Egypt, Goalreports.
A Caf statement released Monday said the decision was one of many reached during it s disciplinary committee meeting held last month (April 18).
A mammoth 40,000 fans filled the 25,000-capacity arena, with spectators almost reaching the playing area and hanging off the scoreboards and security lights after the Kaduna state government threw gates open in support of the Super Eagles.
Fortunately, there was no major incident on the night as the lives of thousands would have been endangered seeing as the security deemed fit to allow only one entry to the grounds.
Overcrowding at the ABS, Kaduna. Image: Goal
Overcrowding at the ABS, Kaduna. Image: Goal
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has been slammed a $5000 (N995,376) fine for the incident, just as the Egyptian federation was fined $5000 over incidents during the return leg in Alexandria four days later.
Egyptian fans were accused of excessive use of lasers during the match where Nigeria’s 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) dream was shattered after going down 1-0 to the Pharaohs courtesy of Ramadan Sobhy’s 65th minute goal.
The crisis-ridden NFF has yet to respond to the charge.
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Sunday, 8 May 2016

NPFL Re-Cap: 3SC Peg Back Rangers, Pillars Edge Ikorodu Utd



Enugu Rangers failed to win a game at home for the first time in the Nigeria Professional Football League this season as they were held to a 1-1 draw at the Nnamdi Azikwe Stadium, Enugu by traditional rivals, Shooting Stars of Ibadan.

Chisom Egbuchulam put the Flying Antelopes ahead from the spot 12 minutes from time. It was his seventh goal of the campaign.

Tope Orelope also equalised for the visitors through a penalty in added time after Matthew Etim handled the ball in the box late on.

It was the Oluyole Warlords’ first away point in the campaign.

Kano Pillars earned a slim 2-1 win against basement side Ikorodu United at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

The Sai Masu Gida went ahead in the game through Emmanuel Edmund in the 15th minute.

Yemi Olasupo however shocked the home fans when he scored the leveller on 27 minutes.

The hosts however got the winner through Rabiu Ali 13 minutes before the end of the game.

Champions Enyimba also beat Niger Tornadoes 2-1 in Umuahia.
Nzube Anaezemba and Ike ThankGod who scored their goals in the midweek win against Kano Pillars also got the goals for the Aba giants in the game.
Bolaji Adeyemo was the goal scorer for Tornadoes.

At the Warri City Stadium, Rivers United stunned their hosts Warri Wolves 1-0.

Benard Ovoke scored the winner in the 52nd minute.

The former Bayelsa United striker has now scored four goals in his last four games for the Pride of Rivers.

It was the first goal conceded by Warri Wolves at home in the league this season.

Lobi Stars extended their unbeaten home streak to 54 games with a narrow 1-0 win against MFM FC at the Aper Aku Stadium, Makurdi.

Monsuru Bashiru scored an own goal in the 69th minute to condemn his side to another away defeat.
Akwa United edged out FC IfeanyiUbah 2-0 in Uyo.

The visitors have now failed to record a goal in their last four away fixtures.
In Owerri, Heartland beat Elkanemi Warriors beat 2-1.

Heartland forward, Anthony Oussou, put his side ahead on 11 minutes for his fourth goal of the season, while Daniel Japhet equalised for the visitors two minutes later.

The Naze Millionaires reclaimed the lead on 23 minutes through Emeka Ogbuh.

Wikki Tourists beat Nasarawa United 2-1 in Bauchi.

Godwin Obaje shot to the top of top scorers chart with his eighth strike of the campaign when he grabbed the curtain raiser in first half added time.
Eugene Obi equalized for Nasarawa United in the 55th minute.

It was his first league goal for the Solid Miners since his switch from Kano Pillars.

Plateau United and Sunshine Stars ended their game in a barren draw.

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Sunday, 1 May 2016

#Rio2016: Siasia adds Nyokobing’s Olajide to Nigeria U23 Olympics squad

The Dream Team VI boss has added the Denmark based forward to his provisional squad for Rio 2016 as he hopes to have a solid squad.

Nigeria U23 boss Samson Siasia has added Nyokobing forward Olajide Owolabi to his provisional squad for the 2016 Olympics football event.

The 21-year-old was part of the Dream Team VI’s squad for the All African Games and the Afcon U23 championship but his team failed to release him.

Before that, injury ruled him out of Manu Garba’s squad to the 2015 Fifa U20 World Cup in New Zealand.

Coach Siasia had earlier submitted a provisional list of 60 players to the Nigeria Football Federation, but he is still adding new discoveries to the list, as he aims to find the solid squad to the games.
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Thursday, 28 April 2016

New Super Eagles invitee Gbenga Arokoyo ready to show his quality

The Gaziantepspor defender is eager to make an impact following his first call up for the Nigeria senior side in next month’s international friendly matches against Mali and Lux...

Gaziantepspor defender Gbenga Arokoyo has said he is ready to prove his quality with the Nigeria senior nationalteam in next month’s international friendlies against Maliand Luxembourg.

Arokoyo, who was a member of the 2011 Caf U20 Africa Cup of Nations winning squad under coach John Obuh, had been overlooked by coaches since he moved from Kwara United to Europe in 2012.

He established himself at Sweden's Mjallby before he joined the Turkish outfit in 2014 and has finally got his chance to play for his country at the senior level after he was included in a list of 26 by interim coach Salisu Yusufon Wednesday..

"I feel really blessed and happy," Arokoyo toldGoalabouthis first invitation to the Super Eagles.

"Of course I expected the call up having been working hard at my club and finally it has come and I'm so happy.

"Nigeria have been struggling with the central defensive position since the retirement of former captain Joseph Yobo after the World Cup in 2014.

"I see my invitation as an opportunity to bring my quality to help the team and together we can become a better team," said Arokoyo.

"I want to say big thank you to the coaches for the honour to serve my nation again and also for all Nigerians to give us their prayers and support in the two games," he concluded.

Nigeria will take on Mali in France on May 27 before facing Luxembourg five days later.
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Wednesday, 27 April 2016

Ideye, Troost Ekong Gets Super Eagles Re-call ahead of Friendilies

Coach Salisu Yusuf has invited 26 players for next month's international friendly games against Mali and Luxembourg.

Heading the list are Brown Ideye and William Troost-Ekong who had been overlooked by Nigeria in recent games.

Also making a return to the senior national team is Raheem Lawal, while former Flying Eagles stars Gbenga Arokoyo, Chidozie Awaziem and Musa Muhammed have been handed a call up for the first time.

Only goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa made the cut from the Nigeria Professional Football League.

Surprisingly, Kenneth Omeruo who has been ruled out of the Rio 2016 Olympics owing to a groin injury has been called up to participate in the friendlies alongside, Leon Balogun, Ogenyi Onazi and captain John Obi Mikel.

Nigeria will take on Mali in France on May 27 before facing Luxembourg five days later.

THE FULL SQUAD»»»»

Goalkeepers: Carl Ikeme (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England); Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United, South Africa); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Sunshine Stars)

Defenders: Abdullahi Shehu (Uniao da Madeira, Portugal); Musa Muhammed (Istanbul Basaksehir, Turkey); Elderson Echiejile (AS Monaco, France); Kingsley Madu (AS Trencin, Slovakia); Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa SK, Turkey); Leon Balogun (Mainz 05, Germany); Gbenga Arokoyo (Gaziantepspor, Turkey); William Troost Ekong (Haugesund FC, Norway); Chidozie Awaziem (FC Porto, Portugal)

Midfielders: Ogenyi Onazi (SS Lazio, Italy); John Mikel Obi (Chelsea FC, England); Kelechi Iheanacho (Manchester City, England); Wilfred Ndidi KRC Genk, Belgium); Raheem Lawal (Osmanlispor FK, Turkey); Etebo Oghenekaro (SC Farense, Portugal)

Forwards: Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow, Russia); MosesSimon (KAA Gent, Belgium); Victor Moses (West Ham United, England); Odion Ighalo (Watford FC, England); Alex Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England); Aminu Umar (Osmanlispor FK, Turkey); Aaron Samuel (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Brown Ideye (Olympiakos FC, Greece)
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