NFF boss wants Eagles to play with passion

President of the Nigeria Football Federation and Member of the CAF Executive Committee, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick has charged the Super Eagles to commit heart, soul and spirit to Friday’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against the Lions of Cameroon in Uyo, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.



Six –pointer Nigeria are four points better than second –placed Cameroon, who arrive with the toga of African champions and believe their physique and aggressive play would prove a mountain to surmount for the hosts on the day.



Pinnick, who is also a Member of the Organizing Committee for FIFA Competitions, told thenff.com on Thursday that the much –respect Nigerian spirit that conquers so many adversities will see the three –time African champions through, but insisted the Eagles must approach the game with a never-say-die mentality at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.



“This is a very crucial match and the players know so. The Cameroonians are not coming here to simply appraise the serenity and beauty of the city of Uyo; they are coming to contest the three points.



“The Super Eagles must throw everything – their body, heart and spirit – into the game. Those three points are very important to our FIFA World Cup qualification campaign, and I am confident we will get them.”



Eagles’ Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr has already announced that former junior international Ikechukwu Ezenwa, who penultimate weekend captained the Nigerian team to qualify for next year’s African Nations Championship, will start in goal. Two other former junior internationals Dele Ajiboye and Dele Alampasu are also available in the goalkeeping department.



In skipper Mikel John Obi, Victor Moses (both returning after missing the Cup of Nations qualifier against South Africa in June), Oghenekaro Etebo and John Ogu (midfield), Odion Ighalo, Anthony Nwakaeme and Aaron Samuel (frontline), Rohr also has the personnel with the physique and stubborn mentality to match the Lions and even more.



Germany -based Leon Balogun, who also missed the clash with South Africa, returns and is likely to pair Olympic bronze medallist William Ekong in central defence, with another Olympic bronze medallist Abdullahi Shehu, as well as Elderson Echiejile, Tyronne Ebuehi, Uche Agbo and Chidozie Awaziem also available for Rohr in the rearguard sector.



England –based Wilfred Ndidi and Turkey –based duo of Ogenyi Onazi and Mikel Agu are also available in midfield, with Ahmed Musa, Moses Simon and Kelechi Iheanacho able to offer pace and invention in the attack.



Friday’s match will kick off at 5pm. Both teams clash again at the Stade Omnisports Ahmadou Ahidjo in Yaounde on Monday, starting from 6pm.  

WCQ: it's home away from home against Super Eagles - Bassogog

Akanni Seyi

Henan Jianye FC of China forward, Christian Bassogog has declared that there will be no hiding place for the host on Friday during the first leg of the World Cup qualifier in Uyo.


With so much at stake, during the double header encounter with Super Eagles of Nigeria,  much will be expected of the in-form Bassogog.

His lightning pace is, of course, something which Super Eagles should be wary of. Bassogog, though, downplays his individual impact, preferring to emphasise the team’s unified spirit.

“Nigeria are a strong team,” he said. “They have very good players and many of them are playing in Europe. But we must defeat them if we are to maintain our qualifying hopes. We should take the game to them. We need to fight to defeat them.

“Our players are young, but we are strong as a team,” he said of Cameroon’s progress under Belgian coach Hugo Broos. “He is a good coach. He knows what the players are good at so he can get the best out of us. In this team, everyone has his chance.”

Having said that, Bassogog is all too aware what responsibility he shoulders.

“These are matches I want to win,” he said. “We are not in an ideal position but these are qualifying games for the World Cup. I will do my utmost to help our team.

“When I was young, I liked watching Eto’o. I watched carefully how he went forward and how he scored. He could always score some unexpected goals in amazing fashions. For a long time, I had thought of becoming a player like him.” codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathered.

Aiteo Cup: Ayo Ojo's wonder gloves saves Osun United

Akanni Seyi


A stellar performance from Osun United wonder goalie, Ayo Ojo during the penalty shoot out ensured Osun United advanced to round of sixteen (16) of the federations Cup presently known as Aiteo Cup at the expense of the experienced and NPFL bound opponent, Kwara United FC.


The encounter was a  nerve wracking one at the Osogbo City Stadium as both teams came to party with determination and utmost concentration to advance into the next round.


The home team dominated the proceeding in the first stanza with brilliant foot-work in midfield orchestrated by Dare Olatunji, Hakeem Olalere and Jide Fatokun.


Kwara United defenders were absolutely spectacular in containing the pressure posed by the likes of Tosin Omoyele and Yusuf Aderemi. Chinedu Emmanuel would have sent the home fans into jubilation but he couldn't make his chance count.


Hakeem Olalere let fly at the edge of the box after collecting a flick from Dare Olatunji only for Tosin Omoyele to arrive late for a simple tap in towards the tale end of the first half.



Nigeria National League top scorer, Michael Ohanu,  Segun Alebiosu and Solomon Owello combined well to stretch the defence line of the home team but Ayo Ojo came to the rescue of his side in the early minutes of the second half.

Deep into the second half, John Obuh's boys were showing some intents upfront. Both sides later reshuffle their packs in search of the opener but no goal was registered, Adeyemi Adeyeye who was introduced later in the second half could not convert some glorious chances that came his way as Michael Ohanu remains the outlet of counters at the other end in the pulsating encounter.


The game ended goalless as center refree Nura Abdullahi from Zamfara stopped the proceeding at the regulation time.


Straight into penalty shoot out, Segun Alebiosu and Stephen Alfred of Kwara United couldn't shoot past Ayo Ojo who was adjudged to be man of the match in the evening. Mamud Akorede's spot kick on the other hand was denied by woodwork to bury the game but Omoluabi Giants had to wait for Hakeem Olalere's last kick in which he sent Eze Chidibere the wrong way to advance.

Full Time: Osun United 4-3 Kwara United

Indomitable Lions hit Nigeria today

Akanni Seyi


Technical Adviser of Indomitable Lions of Cameroon Hugo Broos is expected to land in Nigeria today along with his players.

The following are the names of Lions' players invited for the double header World Cup qualifiers on 01 and 04 September.



1. Ondoa Frabrice (FC Sévilla Spain)

2. Goda Jules (AC Ajaccio, France)

3. Bokwe Georges (Mjondalen, Norvège)

4. Ngadeu Ngadjui Michael (Slavia Prague, Republique Tchèque)

5. Teikeu Adolphe (FC Sochaux, France )

6. Mabouka Ernest (Maccabi Haïfa, Israël)

7. Castelleto Jean Charles (Brest, France)

8. Leuko Serge (CD Lugo, Spain)

9. Fai Collins (Standard de Liège, Belgium)

10. Banana Yaya (Panionios, Greece)

11. Nouhou Tolo (Seattle Sounders, USA)

12. Djoum Suitchuin Giles Arnaud (FC Hearts, Ecosse)

13. Mandjeck Georges (Sparta Prague, République Tchèque)

14. Siani Sébastien (KV Oostende, Belgium)

15. Franck Zambo Anguissa (Marseille, France)

16. Choupo Moting (Stoke City, Angleterre)

17. Aboubakar Vincent (FC Porto, Portugal)

18. Moukandjo Benjamin (Jiansung, China)

19. Bassogog Christian (Henan Jianye, China)

20. Toko Ekambi Karl (FC Angers, France)

21. Nsame Jean Pierre (Young Boys, Switzerland)

22. Moumi Ngamaleu (Rheinorf, Austria)

23. Fabrice Olinga (Royal Mouscron, Belgium)

WCQ: Mikel predicts tough encounter in Uyo




Super Eagles skipper Mikel Obi has said that, tough times awaits indomitable Lions of Cameroon in Uyo ahead of the World Cup qualifier on Friday.




The former Chelsea midfielder is delighted to return to the team after he last played for the country in November and was outstanding when Nigeria defeated Algeria 3-1 in Uyo.


But he has since then quit the Premier League after 10 illustrious years for the cash in China.


However, an abdominal problem which needed surgery in London meant he has not featured for the country this year.



“It’s good to be back with the team, great to be part of the team again.



" lt's going to be a very tough encounter when we square up with lndomitable Lions on Friday, our commitments, discipline and focus will be key in dumping off the current African Champion." Mikel said after Eagles arrival in Uyo.


In his absence, Ogenyi Onazi stood in as captain and Leicester City ace Wilfred Ndidi started for the Eagles.



Eagles coach Gernot Rohr admitted the team missed the experienced midfielder when they were shocked 2-0 by visiting South Africa in an AFCON 2019 qualifier in June.

Phoenix boss accuses Ayo Alabi of smear campaign

The last may have not been heard about the fortunes and misfortunes of teams that were involved in relegation and promotion matches in the just concluded Nation Wide League One.


Akeem Busari exclusively gathered that the boss of Top World football club of Ekiti, one of the teams that missed the promotion from its group, Ayo Alabi, last week petitioned the NFF and the league organisers wherein he alleged that two prominent members at the football house, namely Shola Ogunowo and Siji Lagunju had compromised their positions to influence the outcome of his team's last game against Phoenix Athletic football club.


The petitioned further alleged that the COO of the Nation Wide League One, Solar Olushola Ogunowo, is the owner of Phoenix ASC. Even as it also accused another top official of the club, Bayo-lanlege Kehinde, of thuggery as the team enjoyed immunity during its home matches.


However, in a swift reaction to the allegations, the Chairman of Phoenix ASC ,Oluwaseyi Motunrayo, debunked the allegations which he described as 'acts of desperation' on the parts of Topworld FC and particularly, Ayodeji Alabi.


"There are no truths whatsoever in the allegations. And it certainly smirks of frustration and desperation on the parts of Ayo Alabi and his team," Motunrayo quipped.


"It is totally wrong to say that Sola Ogunowo is the owner of Phoenix ASC. It is also an attempt to smear his name and that of Coach Siji Lagunju and of course, rubbish the good works of the league organisers," he further stated.


The youthful club chairman went on to explain that he was elected last year by the board of the club on a three year term. According to him, the club which began as Fountain Youths Sports club is the love of Ekiti football fans because of its enviable structures hinged on genuine youth development.


"We are renowned for our enviable youth development programmes and the average age of players in our team ranges between 15-18 years.


"The problem is the attempt by the likes of Ayo Alabi to maintain the status quo in Ekiti state football. They are afraid of progress and wants to continue to keep Ekiti football in the dark," he remarked.


"It is a shame that he could descend so low to smear campaigns against such personalities. And it won't work," Motunrayo lamented.


It would be recalled that Topworld fc lost its last match away to Phoenix ASC  0-1, in what was described as a decider. A win in the game would have seen Topworld gaining promotion play off.


At the end of the group matches, it was Kwara Feeders that got the play off and Phoenix ASC claiming the second spot.


Conclusively, he advised the football authorities to be wary of unsavoury moves and desperate acts by frustrated club owners and officials who are bent on bringing the game to disrepute in the country, by dropping names of distinguished football administrators and linking such to their self-induced misfortunes.


"Football is a beautiful game and the authorities should not allow some disgruntled persons destroy its legacies," he added.

Rohr, Musa, Obi others storm Uyo from Abuja

In its quest to maintain the 100% record in the World Cup qualifiers, Gernot Rohr  on Monday has led 14 Super Eagles players and their technical handlers to Uyo from Abuja, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.

The contingent which flew from the capital city by Dana Air arrived Uyo, venue of the Match-day 3 of the qualifying round at about 5pm to be joined by Dele Alampasu and Ikechukwu Ezenwa who were already on ground for the must-win clash with the reigning African champions.

On board the flight from Abuja were Captain of the team John Mikel Obi, Odion Jude Ighalo, William Troost Ekong, Ola Aina, Tyronne Ebuehi, Elderson Echiejile, Chidozie Awaziem, Ogenyi Onazi, Wilfred Ndidi, Ahmed Musa, Kelechi Iheanacho, Daniel Akpeyi, Oghenekaro Etebor and Mikel Agu.

The team’s Franco-German Coach, Gernot Rohr, led the full compliment of the technical officials into Uyo ahead of the training expected to commence this morning at the practice pitch of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium fondly called the Nest of Champions.
Expected to join the squad today is the trio of Shehu Abdullahi, Aaron Samuel and new invitee, Anthony Nwakaeme of Hapoel Be’er Sheva in the Israeli topflight.

Chelsea star wingback Victor Moses who posted on his twitter handle at the weekend that he was home-bound to help Nigeria defeat Cameroon was yet to arrive Uyo as at press time last night, although team officials admitted they were expecting him to join the rest of the squad.

Meanwhile, Ighalo has promised to score goals against the Lions come Friday evening.
The Changchun Yatai forward has regained his scoring tricks since arriving the Chinese Super League having scored 11 leagues goals this season.
“It is true, I have been on a great scoring run. I must say I came back with my scoring boots and I pray I convert my chances against Cameroon.

“Though, winning is paramount to me as that is the main aim of the team, I desire to score against Cameroon,” the former U-20 forward told AOI Football.
Nigeria will face the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon on Friday in the first of the two clashes between both sides as the qualifiers resume this weekend.

Nigeria is leading the Group B with six points from two games while Cameroon are the closest foes as they have harnessed just two points from two games. Zambia and Algeria occupy third and fourth spot on the log with each having just one point.

Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions also reported to camp yesterday with 20 of the original 23 players invited by Coach Hugo Broos.
They will be joined by three replacements of players that have asked to be excused from the match against Nigeria. They are expected in Uyo on Wednesday.

D’Tigress Champions of 2017 Afrobasket tournament

Nigeria’s women basketball team, D’Tigress last night emerged African champions for the first time in 12 years at 2017 FIBA Women Afrobasket Tournament in Bamako, Mali.

The Nigerian side defeated Senegal 65-48 last night to become the new African champions and heading for the World Cup in Spain as the undisputed continental leaders.

The Senegalese took the early lead winning the first quarter 18-12. But before their supporters could believe in a huge win, Nigeria fought back and won the second quarter at 21-10.

The second quarter rally  eventually defined the outcome of the match as D’Tigress established a lead and never looked back.

 Nigeria won the third quarter 15-7 and capped it with a 17-13 hold out at the championship buzzer.

On their way to wearing the continental crown, D’Tigress played eight matches and won all.

D’Tigress booked the first FIBA World Cup ticket from the African zone after advancing to the finals of the Afrobasket with the defeat of host-Mali in a hard fought semi-final game by 48points to 47.

It was Mali’s Tirera Meiya that led the scorer’s chat with 15points, 6 assists and 4 rebounds but it was not enough to upset a more technically balanced Sam Vincent led side who shared the scoring responsibility on the night.

D’Tigress co-captain, Kalu Ezinne steered the battle charge against the host scoring 11points, 6 assists and catching 4 rebounds while Nyingifa Atonye contributed 11 points, 2 assists and 4 rebounds to cap an unforgettable win.
The last time

D’Tigress won the tournament was in 2005 in Abuja when Nigeria hosted the 17th edition of the tournament. Nigeria won her first women Afrobasket title in 2003.

*D’TIGRESS’ ROAD TO TITLE*

80-69 Mozambique

84-47 DR Congo

106-72 Egypt

106-33 Guinea

58-54 Senegal

98-43 Ivory cost

48-47 Mali

65-48 Senegal

Udi upbeat Stars' survival despite loss

Chinedu Udechukwu's brace from the spot earned home side, Katsina United maximum points against Sunshine Stars in a relegation six pointer at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium on Sunday.

Both Katsina United and Sunshine Stars head into the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Match Day 36 tie in need of as much as possible points from the remaining three matches of the season to secure safety. That was evidenced in the adventurous and lively approach to game from both sides from the kickoff.

After early openings created in both ends of the game were not properly utilised the Chanji Boys found a breakthrough in the 15th minute when Sunshine Stars got penalised for a hand the ball in the area. Chinedu stepped forward and converted from the resulting penalty to hand the hosts an early advantage.

Sunshine Stars took charge of proceedings fully after conceding the opener and were so close to finding an equaliser on numerous occasions in the first half particularly through Thomas Adeshina who could not just find a way to beat United goal keeper, Yinka David with some begging chances.

In the early part of the second half Katsina United earned another penalty when Kelechi Ogoh was adjudged to have fouled Usele Martins just inside the area, and Chinedu had no trouble dispatching past Ariyo David for the second time to double the lead of the hosts.

Ariyo David who had a great a game will later made some stunning saves to keep the Duke Udi tutored side in the game, but the Akure Landlords searched in futility till the end for a goal that could have ignited a real come back.

Coach Duke Udi in a post match interview with Sunshine Stars FC Media absorbed the referee of any blame on the penalty calls but maintained his team remained on course for NPFL stay despite the loss.

• Udi noted: "The ref was right with the penalty calls, we conceded the penalties ourselves and we failed to earn anything from the game due to our wastefulness particularly in the first half. Imagine the begging chances. Shame we couldn't take them."

"I still believe we will avoid relegation this season though some interesting plans are playing out in the league at this stage, am not fazed we have our destiny in our own hands heading into the last two games of the season and it is up to us to decide our fate starting with our next home tie against FC Ifeanyi Ubah."

See the remaining teams in Aiteo Cup

Eleven teams from NPFL made it to the round 32 of the Aiteo Cup

Sunshine stars
Nassarawa united
Niger Tornadoes
Lobi Stars
Rangers Int'l
Akwa united
Plateau united
FC Ifeanyi Ubah
ABS FC Ilorin
Abia Warriors
3SC

Nine teams from NNL remain to fight for Aiteo Cup N25 million first prize

FRSC of Abuja
Heartland FC of Owerri
Osun United
Kwara united
Unicem Rovers of Calabar
Yobe Desert Stars
Bayelsa united
Akwa starlets
FC Abuja

• Aiteo Cup Round of 32 is slated for Wednesday 30th August

Afro Basket: Nigeria stun Senegal to set up Quarter-Final with Cote d'Ivoire

Nigeria shocked Senegal 58-54 in a highly intense game on Wednesday to go top of Group B and maintain an unbeaten streak at the ongoing FIBA Women’s AfroBasket 2017 in the Malian capital of Bamako.

WNBA 2017 Draft pick Evelyn Akhator posted a player-of-the-match performance with 15 points and 13 points to inspire Nigeria to the important victory that takes their count to five.

Ezinne Kalu and Adaora Elonu added 12 and 11 points respectively as Sam Vincent's side recorded their fifth straight win at the biennial continental competition that has attracted Africa's top 12 teams.

After the game, Akhator told FIBA.basketball :"We set a goal that we want to win. We came here for the gold. The more we keep playing, the more confidence we keep getting and the more trust we get amongst us."

Nigeria will now face their neighbors Cote d'Ivoire in the Quarter-Finals with an eye at the Semi-Finals and the crown eventually.

Cameroon, despite their 69-35 loss to hosts Mali, alongside with Cote d'Ivoire and Tunisia were tied on seven points but the latter was eliminated from the contest on head-to-head rule.

In a repeat of the 2015 Final, Cameroon face yet another massive task when they face a wounded Senegal side that is looking for a record 13th title but most notably to defend their trophy.

In the other face off, unbeaten Angola will be up against Mozambique in the Lusophone derby with the latter looking to cause an upset.

Rohr names Mikel Obi, 22 others for battles with Cameroon

Team captain Mikel John Obi and forward Odion Ighalo are back, and Israel –based marksman Anthony Nwakaeme gets a first call as Super Eagles’ Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr, on Tuesday released his list of players for the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying duels with Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions.



Germany –based defender Leon Balogun returns after missing the World Cup qualifier against Algeria and the Africa Cup qualifier against South Africa, while Chelsea of England’s wing back Victor Moses is also back after sitting out the duel with the Bafana Bafana in June due to injury.



Rohr has largely kept faith with his regular army, including goalkeepers Daniel Akpeyi, Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Dele Alampasu, defenders William Ekong, Elderson Echiejile and Abdullahi Shehu, midfielders Ogenyi Onazi, John Ogu, Wilfred Ndidi and Oghenekaro Etebo, and forwards Ahmed Musa, Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi and Kelechi Iheanacho.



Nigeria welcome the reigning African champions to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo on Friday, 1st September, before flying to Yaounde for a quickfire return session on Monday, 4th September.



The Super Eagles are top of Africa’s 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Group B with six points, after wins over Zambia and Algeria in their first two matches, while the Lions lie second with only two points following 1-1 draws with Algeria and Zambia.



Seven other players have been placed on standby, but any of them would be contacted to move to camp only in the case there is any issue with any player on the list of 23.



THE FULL LIST



Goalkeepers: Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United, South Africa); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (FC IfeanyiUbah); Dele Alampasu (Cesarense FC, Portugal)



Defenders: William Ekong (Bursaspor FC, Turkey); Abdullahi Shehu (Anorthosis Famagusta, Cyprus); Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany); Tyronne Ebuehi (ADO Den Haag, The Netherlands); Elderson Echiejile (Sivasspor FC, Turkey); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France); Ola Aina (Hull City, England)



Midfielders: Mikel John Obi (Tianjin Teda, China); Ogenyi Onazi (Trabzonspor FC, Turkey); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Oghenekaro Etebo (CD Feirense, Portugal); John Ogu (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel); Mikel Agu (Bursaspor FC, Turkey)



Forwards: Ahmed Musa (Leicester City, England); Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England); Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium); Alex Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England); Odion Ighalo (Chang Chun-Yatai, China); Victor Moses (Chelsea FC, England); Anthony Nwakaeme (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel)



STANDBY: Uche Agbo (Standard Liege, Belgium); Henry Onyekuru (Anderlecht FC, Belgium); Kenneth Omeruo (Chelsea FC, England); Aaron Samuel (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Alhassan Ibrahim (Akwa United); Stephen Eze (FC IfeanyiUbah); Ifeanyi Ifeanyi (Akwa United)

30 Falconets invited to camp ahead clash with Tanzania

Newly –installed Head Coach of Nigeria U20 Women National Team, Falconets, Chris Danjuma on Tuesday rolled out a list of 30 players who have been invited to the team camp in Abuja ahead of next month’s FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying fixture against Tanzania.



Two –time FIFA World Cup runners –up Falconets will entertain their Tanzanian counterparts in Nigeria on 16th September, with both teams to conclude the first round fixture on 30th September in Dar es Salaam.



Midfield stalwarts Joy Bokiri and Cynthia Aku, and star forward Rasheedat Ajibade are among the players who have been instructed to report at the Serob Legacy Hotel, Wuye, Abuja on Wednesday, 23rdAugust 2017 with their training kits, original birth certificates and international passports.



FULL LIST OF INVITED PLAYERS



Monle Omini (Abia Angels); Tola Adeniyi (Sunshine Queens); Chioma Okoye (Sa’adatu Amazons); Chiamaka Nnadozie (Rivers Angels); Nelly Ekeh (Pelican Stars); Blessing Ezekiel (Rivers Angels); Margaret Etim (Delta Queens); Oluwakemi Famuditi (Confluence Queens); Gloria Ogbonna (Ibom Angels); Joy Duru (Nasarawa Amazons); Feyintola Mabokanje (FC Robo Queens); Florence Alexander (Sunshine Queens); Juliet Iorliam (Nasarawa Amazons); Kikelomo Odueke (Edo Queens); Joy Bokiri (Bayelsa Queens); Bola Oladiti (Confluence Queens); Josephine Queens (Nasarawa Amazons); Lilian Tule (Bayelsa Queens); Christy Uchebe (Nasarawa Amazons); Blessing Onoriose (Bayelsa Queens); Adebisi Saheed (Delta Queens); Helen Ugar (Pelican Stars); Uche Udefo (Edo Queens); Rasheedat Ajibade (FC Robo Queens); Charity Reuben (Ibom Angels); Chinyere Igbomalu (Nasarawa Queens); Doosima Tarnum (Adamawa Queens); Cynthia Aku (Rivers Angels); Mariam Abdulrasheed (Confluence Queens); Anam Imo (Nasarawa Amazons)

Katsina United battle Lobi Stars for cup glory

Lobi Stars and Katsina United will today trade tackles in a re-arranged Aiteo Cup Round of 64 at the Aper Aku Stadium in Makurdi.

This match was initially rescheduled to Wednesday due to ill health of Katsina United players, but it has now been moved to today because of Lobi Stars league match that has been scheduled for Friday, August 25.

This will be the third time these two teams are clashing in the ongoing season.

They have clashed twice in the league with Katsina United having the upper hand after they drew one and won the second encounter.

‘The Chanji Boys’ crashed out of this prestigious and oldest Nigeria football tournament last season in the Round of 16 after they were defeated by eventual winners FC IfeanyUbah 2-1.

They had earlier defeated MFM in the Round of 32 1-0 to qualify for the Round of 16.

Lobi Stars, on the other hand, could not make it to the Round of 16 last season.
They will therefore want to do everything possible to ensure that they qualify for the next round this season under new coach Solomon Ogbeide.

The fact that they are playing at home is an added advantage to them.

Meanwhile, Katsina United, who lost narrowly their last league game to Rangers, will come out smoking so as to get a result.

Katsina United star striker Chinedu Udechukwu could not train with the rest of the squad yesterday due to an ankle sprain he suffered at Rangers on Sunday.

“We have come to Makurdi to pick something and we will do our best to make sure that we make Katsina people proud,” declared Adah Joseph.

“We are very familiar to this ground, we have picked a point here in the league and we are here to prove to them that the positive result we picked here in the league was not a fluke.”

Sunshine too much for Tornadoes

 Goals from Kehinde Adedipe and Ajibola Otegbeye were all Sunshine Stars FC needed to secure maximum points against Niger Tornadoes on match day 35 of the 2016/17 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) on Sunday, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.

The rather dour contest came to life four minutes before the break when Adedipe picked up a pass from Abiodun Joseph and fired in into the bottom right corner superbly from the edge of the area, his second against the Ikoh Allah this season.

The game opened up for Sunshine Stars after the opener but the home side failed to pounce when gifted the chance to double their lead moments before the end of the first half through a goal-mouth melee.

Upon resumption of play Sunshine Stars picked it up from where they left it in the first period though will have to wait till the 78th minute before they could get their second of the day; Otegbeye's stunning header off Alaba Adeniyi's free kick had the net bubbled.

However the Akure Landlords were penalised in the 83rd when goalkeeper, Henry Ayodele was adguged to have committed a foul in the area. Wilfred Ammeh stepped up and converted for the visitors sending Ayodele the wrong way to half the deficit for Tornadoes.

Ammeh's strike from the spot will turn out to be a mere consolation goal for Tornadoes as Sunshine Stars FC closed out the game for another routine victory in Ijebu Ode to move up to 12th on the current NPFL log with 48 points.

The Duke Udi tinkered will be the guests of Katsina United on match day 36 at the Muhammadu Dikko stadium.

PILLARS END ABIA WARRIORS' UNBEATEN RUN IN KANO

Two quick fire goals from  Nwagua Nyima and Rabiu Ali within a space of two minutes was all Kano Pillars needed to end Abia Warriors' five-match unbeaten run in the on-going Nigeria Professional Football League, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.

Nwagua, who is very popular among the home fans, repaid them for their support when he out-paced  Abia Warriors defenders before poking home in the 25th minute.

Two minutes later, skipper of the home side, Rabiu Ali slammed home from close range to make it two nil as the visitors failed to rise to the occasion.

However, Abia Warriors gradually took over as the game wore on and could even have reduced the tally with better organization upfront before retiring to the dressing room.

When play resumed, the Warriors continued the raid of their opponents vital area with Ndifreke Effiong, Sherif Bashir and Shedrack Asiegbu as the tormentors-in-chief while Anthony Okemmiri and Arinze Nwangwu orchestrated proceedings from the middle of the pack but the goals could not just come.

But the home team did not just lie down as Nwagua, Junior Lakosa, Alhassan Ibrahim and Rabiu Ali also made several dangerous incursions into Abia Warriors territory but Chinedu Anozie was always on hand to cut short their ambition of increasing the tally.

With the loss, Abia Warriors now occupy the 14th position on the league table still with 47 points from 35 matches and will next face MFM of Lagos at the Umuahia Township Stadium next Sunday.

AITEO Cup: Rangers, Tornadoes, Akwa United through to Round of 32

Rangers International FC of Enugu are through to the Round of 32 of the AITEO Cup competition after the Organizing Committee threw out opponents Kogi United following Wednesday’s abandoned encounter in Lokoja.



The home boys were leading 2-1 before there was spectator –encroachment on the pitch of Confluence Stadium after the referee awarded a penalty kick to the reigning NPFL champions.



Rangers have therefore joined the teams that will enter the pot for Friday’s draw for the Round of 32 games.


In other matches played on Thursday, Niger Tornadoes edged an all-NPFL teams’ encounter against El-Kanemi Warriors 2-1 in Lokoja, while Akwa United downed hosts Halfa FC of Jigawa 3-1 in Hadejia.



Adamawa United Feeders also reached the Round of 32 following a 2-1 triumph over Cynosure FC of Rivers, and FC Abuja thrashed Niger Tornadoes Feeders 4-1 in Lokoja.



RESULTS

Adamawa United Feeders 2 Cynosure FC 1

Niger Tornadoes 2 El-Kanemi Warriors 1

Halfa FC 1 Akwa United 3

Niger Tornadoes Feeders 1 FC Abuja 4

International exposures will benefit Future Eagles - Akinwumi

Nigeria’s U15 boys have rounded off a tour of the Kingdom of Morocco and are expected back in the country on Friday morning.



The team coached by Atune Jolomi alongside assistant coaches Tyabo Abubakar and Olowookere Bankole and goalkeeper trainer Ernest Salolome lost their first game against the Morocco U15 squad 0-1 on Wednesday before pulling a 1-1 draw in the second match on Thursday.



Both matches were played at the National Football Centre, one of the several facilities available to the Federation Royal Marocaine de Football and situated close to the FRMF offices in Rabat. The Nigerian squad arrived in Rabat on Sunday.



“I am excited at the positives we have taken away from this tour. Yes, we lost one game and drew the other, but the important thing is the spirit of the players and the way they approached the entire tour.



“The NFF has taken a lot of positives from this trip. As for the players, the exposure was huge for them and they will surely be better players going forward,” NFF 1st Vice President, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi, who is also Chairman of the NFF Youth Development Committee and led the delegation to Morocco, told thenff.com.

59 applicants to be quizzed for National Teams appointment.

The Nigeria Football Federation has invited a total of 59 coaches for interview as the Federation gets set to fill vacant positions of Head Coach, Assistant Coach and Goalkeeper Trainer in the U17, U20 and U23 National Teams (men), the U17 and Senior National Teams (women) and the Beach Soccer National Team.



Chairman of the NFF Technical and Development Committee, Barrister Chris Green, told thenff.com that the coaches are expected at the NFF Secretariat, Abuja on Tuesday, 22nd August 2017, with their original credentials and other relevant certificates/documents.



The list of short –listed candidates was drawn from the pool of applicants who heeded a public notice by the NFF for applications two weeks ago.



The football governing body has advised all the coaches that they would be responsible for their movement to and from Abuja, as well as their upkeep and other personal expenses in the Federal Capital Territory.



THE INVITED COACHES:



Finidi George

Toyin Ayinla

Auwar Bashar

Maureen Madu

Adanna Nwaneri

Mary Godspower

Kennedy Boboye

Henry Oluwafiropo Abiodun

Fidelis Ilechukwu

Paul Aigbogun

Shola Ibrahim Adewuyi

Ajuma Peter Otache

Hassan Abdullahi Sharif

Jolomi Atoume

Bala Abubakar Mohammed

Ben Ogbe

Bunmi Oluwasonmi Haruna

Godwin Okon

Danladi Nasidi Alala

Abdullahi Maikaba

Haruna Ilerika

Peter Ijeh

Nduka Ugbade

Manu Garba

Patrick Olalere

Iliya Buba

Abdullahi Tayabo Umar

Randy Waldrum

Tama Aondofar

Ernest Teigbanyo

Suleiman Shaibu

Jide Dina

Adams Usman

Elshama Yunus Musa

Nathaniel Ogunwale

Emmanuel Akwuegbu

Baruwa Olatunji Abideen

Abdullahi Abubakar

Nkiru Okosieme

Monday Odigie

Evans Ogenyi

Kabiru Umar Baleria

Baba Ganaru Mohammed

Bala Nikyu

Etta Egbe

Christian Obi

Ewulu Afam Innocent Fancy

Ogunbote Olugbenga Ayodeji

Abdullahi Usman Biffo

Adeoye Obaseyi Onigbinde

Zachary Baraje

Morufu Najimu Adeyemi

Queendolyn Akpan

Atu Mamuzo Lucky

Taiwo Omobolanle

Adewale Laloko

Whyte Ogbonna

Usman Yinka Salihu

Danjuma, others appointed to take charge of Falconets

The Nigeria Football Federation has appointed Christopher Danjuma as Head Coach of the U20 Women National Team, also known as Falconets.



Danjuma will be assisted by Wemimo Matthew (1stAssistant Coach), Mansur Abdullahi (2nd Assistant Coach) and Abdul-lateef Yusuf (Goalkeeper Trainer).



The quartet is expected in the Federal Capital, Abuja on Wednesday next week to open camp for screening of players for next month’s FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying match between Nigeria and Tanzania.



According to fixtures released by the Confederation of African Football, two –time FIFA World Cup silver medallists Falconets will take on Tanzania in Nigeria on the weekend of 15-17 September, with the return leg in Dar es Salaam two weeks later.



The winner over both legs will then confront the winner of the fixture pairing Morocco against Senegal in November, before a final round of qualifying matches in January 2018.



The Falconets have played in every edition of the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup, since it was launched as an U19 tournament in Canada 15 years ago. The team reached the quarter finals in Thailand 2004, Russia 2006 and Chile 2008, before finishing as runners –up at the 2010 finals in Germany and at the 2014 finals in Canada.



The Falconets reached the semi finals in Japan in 2012, but failed to reach the knock –out stage in Papua New Guinea last year.

Aiteo Cup: Yusuf stars as Osun Utd nailed Coal City boys

The aspiring Coal City Youths Football Club of Enugu were dumped out of this year's edition of Aiteo Cup courtesy of Aderemi Yusuf's first half brace for Osun United Football Club on Wednesday evening, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.

The highly interesting encounter, which brought out the best out of the two teams with Osun United playing with more confidence and created most chances.

A quality performance inspired the Omoluabi Giants to progressed to the round of 32 of the Aiteo Cup with Yusuf Aderemi, netting a brace.

In the all-important Cup tie, Osun United got the opening goal after twelve (12) minutes with Obasi Chigozie, setting up Aderemi to nod the ball into the net.

In the 31st minute, Emeka Ogbu, clear cut chance to draw level for his side was dealt with by Ayo Ojo, in goal for Osun United.

It was a performance that was characterized by grit and defiance, as Coal City were unable to withstand the firepower of the National League side who dominated proceedings with coordinated passes and moves from Hakeem Olalere, Tosin Omoyele, Chinedu Emmanuel, and Aleem Adebayo.

Osun United got the job done in the 44th minute when Aderemi taps into the net a set piece from Obasi. 

Coal City came stronger in the second half and played with maturity, dominating possession with Ndu Ebukako, Ogbu, Christian Omeje, and Torty Okorie, fireworks to get a goal was curtailed by United defence line marshaled by Olusola Akilapa and Kehinde Adeyemi. 

Rivers United crash out of Aiteo Cup

Cup competitions all over the world are usually dominated by shocks and a famous football pundit once described the FA Cup in England as the scourge of the giants and delight of the minnows.


The latter was ruthlessly display on Wednesday in Port Harcourt as Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) club, Rivers United lost 6-7 on penalties to Julius Atete Football Club in the round of 64 of Nigeria’s oldest football competition, the Aiteo Cup after scores at regulation time stood at 0-0.


United never hit the heights all game long but were still far superior to their opponents as they completely dominated a dour contest decided at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium.


Clear cut goal scoring opportunities were few and far between for both sides with the ‘Pride of Rivers’ coming closest to breaking the deadlock.


Daniel Israel, Emek Atuloma and Bernard Ovoke all had excellent chances to put United in front against the Amateur club in regulation time but saw their efforts foiled.


Under the fading lights in overcast conditions, it went down to the lottery of penalties and the both sides duly stepped up to the occasion, converting their first five spot kicks.


Ovoke, Atuloma, Ifeanyi Nweke, Guy Kuemian and Yusuf Jaiyeola were the first five spot kick takers for United and they converted with aplomb.


With the unheralded and plucky Julius Atete stars also not allowing nerves to get to them from their first five attempts, the exercise then went into sudden death.


Daniel Israel was the first to score but with Atete also standing their ground, Zoumana Doumbia, the next Rivers United man on the spot light knew he could afford to make no mistakes from 11 metres.


He struck his effort firmly enough but it clattered against the cross bar as United hearts sank in unison.


Abraham Ovmiomoduaho then stepped forward for Julius Atete and duly converted the most important spot kick of his life to send shock waves across the country.

The head coach of Julius Atete FC who spoke to Rivers United Media explained that his side prepared for penalties as he expected the game to go right down to the wire.


United’s technical manager, Stanley Eguma expressed deep sadness at the result but said his troops will now be roused ahead of Sunday’s important NPFL game against Enyimba.

AITEO Cup: Yakub Hammed sent Crown FC packing.

Premier league side, Abia  Warriors football club of Umuahia have qualified for the second round of this year's  AITEO Cup after they overcame difficult-to-play   Crown FC of Ogbomosho 1-0 at the Umuahia Township Stadium, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.

Star midfielder, Yakub Hammed, who joined Abia Warriors from Crown this season, dealt the big blow on his former side with a well-taken goal  in the 18th minute but  he did not celebrate the goal in honour of his former team mates.

The goal brought out the best in Crown, semi-finalist in last year's contest as they invaded Abia Warriors vital area and could have drawn level but for the agility of Warriors goalkeeper, Chinedu Anozie who prevented Afolabi Timothy, Oseni Usman and Isah Saidu from making hay.

At the other end, Abia Warriors' Ndifreke Effiong, Chinenye Agoha and Shedrack Asiegbu also had the opportunity to increase the tally but could not put their acts together .

With FIFA badged centre referee, Hannah Elaigu at the top of her game, the spectators had a full doze of good football as she interpreted the laws of the game to the best of her knowledge irrespective of whose ox was gored.

With both coaches, Abdullahi Usman Biffo of Abia Warriors and his Crown counterpart, Raheem Tajudeen effecting some substitutions, the game became even more interesting with equal forays.

However, Chinedu Anozie  ensured the game did not go into the lottery of penalties   when he made a one-handed save in the last second of the four-minute injury time to keep off a well-taken shot by Crown's Folorunso Saadu.

World Cup Qualifier: Pinnick meets Gov Udom Emmanuel

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick on Tuesday met with Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State and members of the State’s cabinet as the countdown begins for next month’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying battle between Nigeria and Cameroon in Uyo, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.



The NFF President, alongside Chairman of the NFF Technical and Development Committee, Barrister Chris Green and Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, Mr. Emmanuel Iba met with Governor Emmanuel at the Government House in Uyo, where the Governor and his team assured the Federation officials that every item on the checklist for organization of the match was being painstakingly attended to.



“We had a useful meeting with His Excellency on all areas concerning organization. The NFF does not want to leave any stone unturned with regards to arrangements for this match.



“While we are doing everything necessary to prepare our team for the big match, we are also fully focused on the organization. Nothing must be left to chance. I am happy His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel and his top officials are on the same page with the NFF. We are confident of having a very successful match on all fronts,” Pinnick told thenff.com after Tuesday’s meeting.



The Super Eagles, three –time African champions, welcome reigning African champions Cameroon to the ‘Nest of Champions’ in two-and-half weeks, in what could prove one of the deciding games of Africa’s 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Series’ Group B.



Nigeria won the last encounter between the two countries at senior level, when the Eagles lashed the Lions 3-0 in a friendly in Brussels, Belgium on 11th October 2015.



Presently, the Super Eagles perch at the top of the pool, with six maximum points from two matches, after edging Zambia 2-1 in Ndola in October 2016 and defeating Algeria 3-1 in Uyo the following month. The Lions are second with only two points, after 1-1 draws with Algeria away and Zambia at home.

Family affair as siblings officiate El-Kanemi vs FC IfeanyiUbah match

It was indeed a family affair yesterday when two brothers and a sister officiated the NPFL week 34 fixture between El-Kanemi Warriors and FC IfeanyiUbah in Maiduguri, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.

The siblings, Stephen Terfa, Ephraim Shagba and their sister, FIFA badged referee Mimisen Iyorhe were in charge of the match that ended 2-0 in favour of the home side.

The Benue referees have been raised by their mother, Mrs. Grace Iyorhe a retired referee and former chairman of the Benue State Referees Council.

An elated Mimisen took to Facebook immediately after the match in Maiduguri to pour encomiums on their mother for nurturing them and ensuring they achieved their dreams in football refereeing.

She wrote “Today I write this piece in honour of my mum, Mrs Grace Nguyemen Iyorhe, Nee Asuwe.

Today your dream in refereeing came to pass in Maiduguri, where your first child, Stephen Terfa Iyorhe watched the technical area and your fourth, now third child, Mimisen Iyorhe assisted your last child, Ephraim Shagba Iyorhe to successfully handle the game between El Kanemi Warriors FC, Maiduguri and FC Ifeanyi Uba, Nnewi.

 “Only God knows what you passed through to nurture us to this stage and only He will bless you and make His face to shine on you.

“This record you have created amongst the many others is to show the world that dedication, humility and the right attitude with God on your side is equal to success.”

National Lottery Trust Fund Donates Sports Equipments to 42 State of Osun Schools

Akanni Seyi



The National Lottery Trust Fund (NLTR) has donated equipment worth millions of Naira to 42 public primary schools in the State of Osun.



Speaking today at the event which took place inside the main hall of Ataoja Government High School Osogbo, the NLTF’s Executive Secretary, Habu Gumel, said the donation was in line with the Federal Government’s gesture to equip public primary schools for sporting excellence.

He said the donation followed the federal government’s flag-off of the donation of sporting equipment’s to about 2,000 public primary schools nationwide in May 2016 in Abuja.

He said the equipment donated, valued at several millioms of naira, which covered nine different sports reaffirms that government is passionate and committed to advancing, uplifting and promoting grassroots sports in Nigeria.


Gumel tasked the benefitting primary schools to put the equipment to good use, and ensure their proper security.


Speaking at the occasion, the Permanent Secretary Special Duties Dr. (Mrs)  Amina Belly said President Muhammadu Buhari was determined to channel available resources to develop Nigeria’s economy.


Bello said government has identified sports as a major revenue earner and capable of contributing significantly to our gross earnings outside of oil.

The executive chairman of Osun State Universal Basic Education Board Prince Felix Awofisayo noted that, " the sports equipment will in no small measure advance, uplift, and promote sports development in the state and in Nigeria as a whole."

 He lauded the gesture of NLTF for good works and the vision they had in catching them young.

The state governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola represented by Commissioner for Education Mr Kola Young who received the equipment lamented that it was unfortunate the country only gets representation in very few sports during international sporting events.


He said the gesture by the Federal Government would enable youths to engage in sporting activities and he later enjoined the Lottery Commission to spare their time in touring Government Elementary Schools in the state.

The sports equipment donated were for football, badminton, handball, table-tennis, volleyball, basketball and athletics.

Relegation confirmed for Remo Stars as Rivers United soars

Remo Stars have officially been dropped from from the Nigeria Professional Football League on matchday 34, after the spirited performance from the visitors ensured a glorious evening and prevailing by 3-1, inside the mainbowl of Gateway International Stadium, Sagamu.


The first half display of the visitors was also their best of the season as they could easily have scored five or six times against shell-shocked opposition.


Esosa Igbinoba and Kanoute Abdoulaye struck fierce efforts against the cross bar in a rip-roaring first half that ebbed and flowed.


Igbinoba’s effort in the 18th minute; a well-drilled strike from 25 yards, totally hoodwinked the Remo Stars goalkeeper, Tunde Adekunle but was only kept out by the frame of the goal.


The midfielder had also come extremely close to opening the scoring for the ‘Pride of Rivers’ 12 minutes earlier with a fizzing long range strike that Adekunle did well to scramble away for a corner.


Kanoute should probably have scored when he came face to face with Adekunle three minutes before the break but he shot with too much power, beating the goalkeeper but not the cross bar.


The Malian striker, full of running all game long, had seen an effort chalked off for offside in the seventh minute.


It was a half of total dominance by United who took the lead in deserved fashion on the quarter hour mark.


‘Golden Boy’, Bernard Ovoke spectacularly curled in a free kick with power and precision, evoking memories of a stellar 2015/16 season for his third league goal of the campaign.


United continued to step on the accelerator and duly doubled their lead in the 34th minute when Emeka Ogbugh planted emphatically into an unguarded net after Adekunle parried a powerful Kanoute shot towards his path.


Remo Stars never got off first gear in the first half as United’s aggressive, high octane display kept them on the back foot for most parts.


They best opportunity of the half was a shot off target in the 25th minute when Victor Chidume attempted a speculative long range strike from 30 yards that was never going to trouble the Rivers United goal keeper, Sunday Rotimi.


United however finished the half with the best goal scoring opening when the lively Kanoute produced an extraordinary header off a corner in additional time which Adekunle pushed away from danger in unconventional fashion.


The Remo Stars head coach, Fatai Osho knew he had to respond as he attempted to make his side stir from hibernation and he duly introduced playmaker, Ochowechi “Oche” Salefu who was to produce one of the best 45-minute cameos in the division this term.


Salefu’s impact was immediate and decisive as he began to pull the strings and get his side playing with poise and belief.


He almost scored in the 52nd minute with a powerful free kick that Rotimi managed to keep out with a flying save.


Two minutes earlier, United almost killed off the game as a contest when Ovoke found himself face to face with Adekunle but the goalkeeper won the battle of wits with an important save to deny the winger his brace.


It was a game for the ages as the two sides continued to trade chances with the play flowing from one end to the other.


A goal was inevitable with the tempo showing no signs of subsiding and it was the visitors that plundered it on 63 minutes!


United left back, Chiwendu Ali hit a 35 yard free kick in Roberto Carlos-esque fashion and Adekunle stood no chance but the effort clattered against the cross bar (for the third time on the day) but Igbinoba, displaying the instincts of a cold-blooded poacher, was on hand to turn home the rebound from close range.


It was a cruel body blow for the hosts who had shown genuine signs of hurling themselves back into the contest.


They however continued to plug on and the exciting Salefu scored a late consolation, a smart finish from inside the box after he swivelled on a six pence delightfully but at that stage, there was only going to be one winner of a game that represented excellent advertisement for the NPFL.


United rose four places on the log to 14th on the log having now amassed 45 points from 34 matches while Remo Stars officially got relegated after the same number of matches as they remain bottom with 29 points.

FLASH! NWFL confirm draw date for Super 4

The draw for the 2017 Nigeria Women Premier League (NWPL) Super 4 Tournament will take place on Wednesday 16th August at the famed Protea Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos.

The tournament which is organized by the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL), will feature four teams.

"The draw for the Super 4 tourney will take place on Wednesday at the Protea Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos," NWFL chairperson Aisha Falode told Nwfl.com.ng on Sunday.

Defending champions Rivers Angels qualified for the competition alongside Bayelsa Queens, Delta Queens and Nasarawa Amazons.

The draw will be under the supervision of NWFL Chief Operating Officer Ayo Abdulrahman and other members of the league board.

One bowl/pot containing four balls will be used and there will be no seeding.

NNL: Osun Utd foils Heartland antics

Osun Utd 3-1 Heartland: Chinedu Emmanuel's brace propels Omoluabi Giants win over Naze Millionaires 



Osun United Football Club on Saturday defeated visiting Heartland FC 3-1 in a Bet9ja Nigeria National League Match Day 26 fixture at the Oshogbo Township Stadium.



Former COD United winger, Chinedu Emmanuel, grabbed a brace in the Omoluabi Giants emphatic win over the Naze Millionaires who are topping the Southern Conference of the second tier league.



Chinedu, opened scores in the 10th minute after nice work from Obasi Chigozie and Hakeem Olalere, gave him the chance to tap home to send the sumptuous spectators into wide jubilation.



Osun United joy was cut short when Akinade Moses, equalised for the visitors in the 11th minute after a goalkeeping error from Ayo Ojo.



Chinedu completed his brace in the 30th minute with an assist from Jide Fatokun.



Heartland safehand Ebele Obi, in the 33rd minute made a brilliant save to deny Chinedu, his third goal.



Yusuf Aderemi, scored United's third goal of the game one minute before the half time with a sublime finish off an assist from Tosin Omoyele, to make the game beyond the reach of the hard-fighting visitors.



Heartland came back into the second half stronger and were rewarded with a 75th penalty which was brilliantly saved by Ayo Ojo, who goes the right way and save Francis Momoh's kick.



Osun United are now 7th on the table log with 39 points from 26 matches and will hope for a better result as they will be guest to Go Round FC next weekend at the Krisdera Stadium, Omoku.

NPFL: Sunshine Stars set to shake 'The Cathedral'.

The 2016/17 Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) enters it home stretch as a nail-biting ending is eagerly anticipated particularly in the relegation battle given the pedigree of teams fighting to beat the drop. Two of such teams is Enugu Rangers FC and Sunshine Stars FC who both face off on Sunday in the Coal City in a week 34 pairing.

Both sides head into the game on the heels of impressive results secured on match day 33. Sunshine Stars who are placed 11th, though two points above the red zone edged Akwa United FC 1-0 at home last Sunday while Rangers braced the odds in Bauchi to return home with a point after a 1-1 draw with Wikki Tourists FC to move out of the bottom five.

Sunshine Stars humbled Rangers 2-0 at home in the first half of the season, however in this tie in 2016 Bobby Clement's brace helped the Flying Antelopes swept aside the Akure Landlords at the Nnamdi Azikwe Stadium (The Cathedral) to close in on their 7th league title.

Dedenders, Orji Kalu and Osas Okoro will not be available for Enugu Rangers given their inclusion in Nigeria's list for 2018 CHAN qualifier against Benin Republic on Sunday.

Sunshine Stars' Alaba Adeniyi who scored one of the goals in the sides first meeting this season will miss the game to serve the last of his two much suspension While midfield maestro Dayo Ojo will continue serving his three match ban.

Captain, Sunday Abe will not be involved given his one match suspension for accumulation of yellow cards. Sikiru Alimi is unvailable for the visitors while Beniniese defender, Rock Durand is also out injured.

In place of the missing players Sunshine Stars FC Head Coach, Duke Udi has again included Kehinde Adedipe, Ezekiel Boboye, Peter Iyanmu and few others in the match day rooster.

Duke Udi in a pre match chat with Sunshine Stars FC Media maintained nothing is won or lost yet in the campaign and posited 15 points remained available to fight for heading into the last five matches of the season.

Despite the high profile absentees, a highly explosive ecounter is on course at The Cathedral on Sunday with the two traditionally strong teams not prepare to lose ground any more at this critical stage of the campaign.

NPFL: Remo Stars ambush Rivers United

As Nigeria Professional Football League enters week thirty four (34), Rivers Utd shall knock on the door of Remo Stars in Sagamu, Ogun State. Games are fast running out for Rivers United as they look to preserve their status in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).


On Sunday, the ‘pride of Rivers’ face the division’s bottom club, Remo Stars knowing they must win to enhance their chances of remaining amongst the elite of Nigerian football.


Remo Stars, viewed by the bookmakers are sure bets for the drop, lost their last home fixture against MFM FC on July 30 and United will be looking to toe the path of the high-flying ‘Olukoya Boys’


Technical manager of Rivers United, Stanley Eguma will be looking to mastermind his first away success of the season and one of the individuals he will be relying on to supply the goals on Sunday, Godbless Asamoah, says relegation for the darlings of Port Harcourt will be likened to heresy.


“All hopes are not lost but we will get it right in the next five matches,” Asamoah told Rivers United Media.


“The players have met and we have resolved that we will fight with our lives to see this club escape from relegation.


“By the grace of God, we will come out of the relegation zone after the next five matches,” he said.


Words they say, are cheap and the boys from Port Harcourt must be ready to battle for all 90 minutes with great intensity to achieve set goals.


While the United stars have dropped the gauntlet, they will be facing one of the most aesthetically-accomplished sides in the top flight on Sunday.


On their day, Remo Stars can hurt anyone and comfortably put them to the sword.


The Stars from Sagamu are dominated by youngsters and pacy full backs.


Centre half, Onuoha Chulwujekwe could however be suspect against physically-demanding opposition with head coach, Fatai Osho favouring a 4-3-3 formation.


Remo Stars love the possession game and playmaker extraordinaire, Oche Salefu is central to their game.


He is quick, nimble footed, has a low centre of gravity blessed with great vision.


The man at the tip of the Remo spear is Victor Mboama, the club captain who has already hit double figures this term.


Remo Stars hate conceding early and a quick start could favour the visitors who will be best advised to make a brisk opening to proceedings.


The playing surface in Sagamu is natural grass (United play their home fixtures on an artificial surface) and could also be a factor.


A potentially very compelling contests awaits on Sunday.

2017 AITEO CUP FIRST ROUND FIXTURES

The NFF committe in charge of this year's federations Cup has concluded the pairing of the qualified clubsides to take part in the glamorous tournament.

First round matches to take place on Wednesday, 16th August 2017 as scheduled below.

NGWA FC (Ebonyi) VS FC GALADIMA (Kebbi)

HEARTLAND FC (Imo) VS INSURANCE FC (Edo)

LOBI STARS (Benue) VS KATSINA UNITED (Katsina)

KATSINA UNITED FEEDERS (Katsina) VS AKLOSENDI FC (Nasarawa)

AITEL FC (Taraba) VS UNICEM ROVERS (Cross River)

MIGHTY JETS FC (Plateau) VS SUNSHINE STARS (Ondo)

BAYELSA UNITED (Bayelsa) VS FC ZAMFARA (Zamfara)

ADAMAWA UNITED (Adamawa) VS CYNOSURE FC (Rivers)

EDE UNITED (Osun) VS SAKABA UNITED FC (Kebbi)

FC IFEANYI UBAH FEEDERS (Anambra) VS JIGAWA GOLDEN STARS (Jigawa)

SAMBA KURNA (Kano) VS WIKKI TOURISTS FEEDERS (Bauchi)

EKITI UNITED (Ekiti) VS DOLPHINS FC (Kaduna)

NIGER TORNADOES (Niger) VS EL-KANEMI WARRIORS (Borno)

RIVERS UNITED (Rivers) VS FC ATETE (Edo)

DELTA WARRIORS (Delta) VS AYADE BABES (Cross River)

FC YARMA LIGHT (Gombe) VS FC IFEANYIUBAH (Anambra)

HAIFA FC (Jigawa) VS AKWA UNITED FC (Akwa Ibom)

SHOOTING STARS (Oyo) VS DYNAMITE FC (Edo)

KOGI UNITED (Kogi) VS RANGERS INT'L (Enugu)

NASARAWA UNITED (Nasarawa) VS MFM FC (Lagos)

NIGER TORNADOES FEEDERS (Niger) VS FC ABUJA (FCT)

DOMA UNITED (Gombe) VS ADAMAWA UNITED (Adamawa)

OSUN UNITED (Osun) VS COAL CITY YOUTHS (Enugu)

FC LOKOJA (Kogi) VS EL-KANEMI BABES (Borno)

KWARA UNITED (Kwara) VS SOKOTO UNITED (Sokoto)

WIKKI TOURISTS (Bauchi) VS PLATEAU UNITED (Plateau)

ABS FC (Kwara) VS ENYIMBA FC (Abia)

YOBE DESERT STARS (Yobe) VS KANO PILLARS (Kano)

ABIA WARRIORS FC (Abia) VS CROWN FC (Oyo)

FRSC FC (FCT) VS POTISKUM ACADEMY (Yobe)

ALMAR (Ogun) VS SPARTAN FC (Lagos)

MOYERO FC (Ondo) VS AKWA STARLETS (Akwa Ibom)

Ibenegbu claimed VAT wonder goal award ahead of Adamu and Usule

Ikechukwu Ibenegbu’s Match Day 30 free kick rescued the three points for former champions, Enyimba International and has now won him the VAT Wonder Goal Award ahead of Adamu Hassan of Nasarawa United and Martins Usule of Katsina United, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.

The three had been shortlisted for the 11th in the VAT Wonder Goal award series and it was Ibenegbu who led on the two voting platforms, twitter and the league website.

Fondly called Mosquito by teammates and fans, Ibenegbu who joined Enyimba from Warri Wolves last season polled a total of 553 of the 742 votes cast by voting fans to claim his second individual football glory after emerging the League’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) in 2006/7 season.

On the website votes, Ibenegbu secured 431 of the 547 votes and was followed by Adamu who polled 74 with Usule picking the remaining 42 votes. On the twitter platform, 122 of the 195 voting fans favoured his 88th minute curly free kick goal with Adamu polling 55 and Usule 18.

The award attracts a prize money of N150,000 with half of the amount donated to Charity organization nominated by the player from the state where his club is domiciled.

Previous winners are Ayo Saka (Rivers United), Ubong Friday (Akwa United), Salefu Ochowechi (Remo Stars), Pascal Seka of FC IfeanyiUbah and Ahmed Usman of Wikki Tourists. Others are Shedrack Asiegbu (Abia Warriors), Rabiu Ali of Kano Pillars, Wasiu Alalade (ABS), Sani Abbani (Gombe United) and Victor Chidume of Remo Stars.

The VAT Wonder Goal is an initiative of the League Management Company (LMC) to deepen engagement between Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) clubs and their communities. It is supported by the Federal Inland Revenue Services (FIRS) which uses the platform to promote tax education.

Eagles will dump out Benin for CHAN 2018 ticket- Chikatara

Coach of the home based team of Nigeria Salisu Yusuf has listed 20 players for their upcoming qualifiers against Benin Republic this weekend in the CHAN Qualifiers.

The team is expected to travel by road to Benin Republic today.

Yusuf had earlier dropped Plateau United man, Elisha Golbe and Nigeria Premier League record scorer Mfon Udoh of Enyimba also dropped after picking up injury in their club’s fixtures last weekend.

Goalkeeper Okemuite Odah, Austin Oladapo, Chinedu Ajanah, Prince Aggreh, Emeka Atuloma, Jamiu Alimi and Chiamaka Madu were the others axed by coach Salisu Yusuf.


The star of Nigeria's home-based Super Eagles squad at the 2016 Africa Nations Championship in Kigali, Rwanda with four goals in the group stages, Chisom Chikatara on Thursday expressed belief that the team currently coached by Salisu Yusuf will overcome the Squirrels of Benin Republic in the two-legged fixtures for the 2018 CHAN qualification.‎

"Eagles' should be aware of their antics, they can at worst force a draw in Cotonou and finish the job in Kano later. Yes, we have qualities that can do the country proud and l charge them to utilize any chance that come their way." The Wydad Casablanca of Morocco striker spoke ahead of the game at the Stade La'Amitie.

20 EAGLES FOR COTONOU, FULL SQUAD HERE

CHAN Eagles' Coach, Salisu Yusuf has named goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa, defenders Orji Kalu and Osas Okoro, midfielders Alhassan Ibrahim and Ifeanyi Ifeanyi, forwards Stephen Odey and Ifeanyi George, and 13 other players for Sunday’s 2018 African Nations Championship qualifying match away to Benin Republic, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.

 The team shall jet out on Friday in a bid to acclimatize on time.

The return leg will hold at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano on Saturday, 19th August, with the winner qualifying for the 5th African Nations Championship scheduled for Kenya early next year.


FULL SQUAD


Goalkeepers: Ikechukwu Ezenwa (FC IfeanyiUbah); Theophilus Afelokhai (Enyimba FC); Dele Ajiboye (Plateau United)



Defenders: Orji Kalu (Rangers International); Stephen Eze (FC IfeanyiUbah); Ariwachukwu Emmanuel (Akwa United); Chima Akas (Enyimba FC); Nasiru Sani (Katsina United); Osas Okoro (Rangers International)



Midfielders: Hafiz Aremu (Akwa United); Raphael Ayagwa (Lobi Stars); Ifeanyi Ifeanyi (Akwa United); Rabiu Ali (Kano Pillars); Samuel Mathias (El-Kanemi Warriors); Alhassan Ibrahim (Akwa United)



Forwards: Sikiru Olatubosun (MFM FC); Thomas Zenke (Nasarawa United); Stephen Odey (MFM FC); Kingsley Eduwo (Lobi Stars); Ifeanyi George (Rangers International)

Flash! NPFL season to end on Sept. 9

The LMC has adjusted the dates for the last four match days of the season.

The adjustment was made to give way for CHAN, World Cup qualifying matches and Federation Cup fixtures.

Accordingly, MD 35 will now be played on August 20
MD 36 - August 27
MD 37 - Sept 3
MD 38 - Sept 9

Coach Salisu Yusuf is expected to release his final list for the CHAN qualifiers later today.