Yinka Popoola to assist Edith Agoye

Head Coach of the Shooting Stars Football Club, Olumide Edith Agoye has picked an assistant coach. He is Yinka Popoola 'Gullit'.



Popoola, before this appointment, was a coach with the club's U-15 team to last NFL - La    Liga Junior tournament in Lagos and he will join Kabiru Alausa and Lati Yusuf to complete the list of the Shooting Stars technical crew.



Agoye and his technical crew have been given the mandate of returning the club to the elite division and developing the budding talents abounding in the ranks of the club.



The Technical Crew at a glance; Edith Agoye (Head Coach), Lati Yusuf (Goalkeeper Coach), Kabiru Alausa(Assistant Coach), Yinka Popoola (Assistant Coach).

Messi picks Eagles ahead of Azerbaijan, Ukraine

Argentina were advised by senior players of their national team led by captain Lionel Messi to settle for a friendly game against Nigeria ahead of Azerbaijan and Ukraine.



The FA in Argentina were in talks with Azerbaijan and also Ukraine for a friendly game after securing a high profile friendly against host of next year World Cup Russia, and talks were at an advanced stage before they settled for Nigeria.


Nigeria were originally looking for a game against Argentina next year but the plan was brought forward after senior players in the team decided on facing the Super Eagles ahead of Azerbaijan and Ukraine.


“ It’s normal for the FA to speak with the coach, who will then inform the players through the captain about any friendly game and venue. It’s so in Argentina because most of the players have to travel long miles because of their locations”, South America football expert Tim Martin said


“The players were asked to choose between Nigeria, Azerbaijan and Ukraine, the latter duo were the preferred choice of the FA due to their proximity to Russia, but the players pushed for a game against Nigeria to have a taste of something different

Ajiboye on winning the league last season, looking forward to new season.

Dele Ajiboye, the Plateau United goal tender has given the recipe that he knew Plateau United would win the league title last season, revealing that he knew from the start that the Peace Boys would be crowned Nigerian champions at the end of last season.


Ajiboye, who spoke to INDEPENDENT earlier in the week, noted that he banked his optimism on the few experienced players in the team, the hunger among the younger players and the sound technical bench of the club.


He said that the younger players in the team wanted to make their own names, prompting them to put in everything to ensure that the Plateau State-owned side ended last season as Nigerian champions, on the basis of which they will be representing Nigeria in the CAF Champions League next year.


“I swear to God that created me and I remember telling my general manager that we were going to win the league. Even though he was somehow skeptical of my position but I insisted.


"I looked at the players we have and we don’t have what some people will call big players in our club. We are not more than five players that have names in our club.


“The rest equally wanted to make names for themselves as well, so they were ready to play and that was it. Secondly, we have a lovely coach, who understands the mentality of the players.


"All these gave me the confidence that we were going to win the league and thank God that we did,” he said.

SWAN: Odunlade, Akinwumi, Chukwuemeka bag award as Ogunjobi become Osun 'Pillar of Sports'

Akanni Seyi




The Osun SWAN 'Sports Merit Awards’ take center stage this Sunday, at Atlantis Civic Event Centre, Ring Road, Oshogbo, by 1pm.



The glamorous event is aimed at celebrating those who have rendered outstanding services to the development of sports in the country and beyond.




Former Secretary General of Nigeria Football Federation, Chief Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi, will be installed as the ‘Pillar of Sports' in the State of Osun.


Some of the recipients includes President of Nigeria Golf Federation and former Osun Governor, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, the commissioner for Social Protection, Sports and Special Needs in the State, Hon. Com. Biyi Odunlade, former President Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Sani Lulu Abdullahi, NFF Vice-President Barrister Seyi Akinwumi, NFF Executive Committee Member, Aisha Falode, distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, and Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament sponsor, Dr. Buhari Abdul-Fatai (BAF), former Super Eagles midfielder, Ademola Adeshina, and President Remo Stars, Honourable Kunle Soname, among others.



Notable personalities expected to grace the grand event includes the *Royal Father of the day, the Ooni of Ife, HRM, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi (Royal Grand Patron of Osun SWAN), Royal Host is the Ataoja of Osogbo, HRM, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, and the Speaker Osun House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Najeem Salaam (Patron of Osun SWAN)*, will be the chairman of the occasion.

Breaking: 3SC picks Edith Agoye as new Head Coach

Akanni Seyi

The management of Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan have appointed Coach Edith Agoye as the head coach of Oluyole Warriors.



The modest club parted way with Coach Fatai Amoo earlier in the week, thereby creating a vacuum to be filled by the club as the matter of urgency.




Coach Samson Unuanel, Samuel Adesokan and Edith Agoye were interviewed earlier in the week for the plum job but the management decided to pick the former Super Eagles striker as the head coach.



Untill his appointment as the head coach of 3SC, the former Shooting Stars goal poacher assisted Coach Fatai Amoo during the last season as the club was demoted to Nigeria National League.


Edith Agoye would be unveiled properly by the club next week.

Kano Pillars back in Gold Cup Pre-season

Former Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) Champions, Kano Pillars Football Club will compete in the fifth edition of Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament.




The Nigeria’s first and well organised Pre-season tournament is set to begin on Wednesday November 15 through Friday November 24, in Ilorin, Kwara State.






Following Crown FC, withdrawal from the tournament, the organisers replaced the Ajilete Valiants with the former Gold Cup champion who are now automatic competitors in the 10- team, 10-day event billed to take place in Ilorin, at the Kwara Sports Complex and Kwara Football Academy.





Crown FC were reportedly to have withdrew from the tournament due to unwarranted circumstances and this opened the door for Sai Masu Gida to be reinstated into the biennial tournament restricted to teams playing in the three tier leagues in Nigeria.



“We have been consulting with all the teams we invited, but Crown FC won't be participating due to unwarranted circumstances. We understand the teams’ position and make  sure that in future tournaments we will give them the opportunity to participate.

Crown FC line up

"We were unable to resist Kano Pillars, when they showed interest again to be part of the modest Preseason tournament in the Country," Tunde Shamsudeen, the General Coordinator of the tourney said.


Having replaced Crown FC, the Kano State outfit will play in Group A alongside defending champion Lobi Stars, Remo Stars, Kwara United and Rivers United.



Sunshine Stars, defunct Sharks FC, Kano Pillars and Lobi Stars won previous editions.



The Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament is sponsored by distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, Dr. Buhari Abdul-Fatai (BAF), Nigeria Football Federation Executive Committee Member, Alhaji  Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, foremost betting company, Bet9ja, Nigeria leading sportswear firm, 'Cone', Naija League Magazine, Tribeca Code, Phoenix ASC, Matchroom, Sportspro, Select Sports, Bovina View Hotel, Stadium Hotel, New-Bell Global Investment, 11th Media Global Concept, Phreestyle Sports and Rashidi Yekini Foundation.

Fresh delighted to be reappointed in CAF committee

The confederation of Africa Football through its official website confirmed the reappointment of Vice Chairman Technical and Development Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation, Comrade Ahmed Yusuf Fresh for the third consecutive time, As member of caf technical and development committee. 

Responding to the good news after receiving the official mail from CAF, Fresh attributed it to God's plans in his life.

'First I would like to appreciate almighty Allah for yet another opportunity as member of the new CAF standing committees under the leadership of Ahmad Ahmad for the third consecutive time in administering the game, I am convinced that Allah plans are manifesting in my life in different ways. 

Let me thank NFF President Amaju Pinnick who is equally member of CAF Executive Committee for believing in me and forwarded my name as one of the nominees during CAF Executive meeting, not forgetting members of the Executive Committee, and congress members of the NFF,'' Sarduana Kwallow Kafa Najeriya as he is fondly called said in a joyful mood.

3sc relieves Amoo of his contract

The Management of Shooting Stars Football Club has relieved the Team’s Technical Adviser, Fatai Amao, of his post, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers. 

The management equally said that it is reviewing the status of all the remaining technical crew members, saying that decision will soon be made on them.

In a statement issued in Ibadan by the club Media Officer, Jubril Arowolo, on Monday, the management confirmed that Mr. Amao will not be leading the team in the professional league campaign next season, noting that the team will forever be grateful for the former Technical Adviser’s commitment and input to the team.

Jubril explained that the management came to the conclusion to relieve Coach Amao's contract after reviewing the performance of the team in the Nigerian Premier League last season, adding that the positions of other technical crew members are also under review.

“The management acknowledged the effort of Mr Fatai Amoo to inspire the team during the failed season. We wish Mr. Amao success in his future endeavours as we will not forget his positive impact on the team,” Jubril said.

Gold Cup partners Phreestyle Sport and Rashidi Yekini Foundation

The organisers of Nigeria's most organized Pre-season Tournament, Gold Cup have reactivated a partnership deal with one of the leading Sports firms in the country, Phreestyle Sport for the 5th edition of the event scheduled to kick off on Wednesday, November 15, 2017 in Ilorin, Kwara State.





Gold Cup organizers led by astute Sport Journalist, Tunde Shamsudeen thought it wise to go beyond football this time and enlighten participating teams on 'leadership and attitude management' during the tourney, hence the need for this recent development with  Phreestyle Sport.





Shamsudeen who's the General Coordinator of the most elaborate tourney, while describing the model of the seminar said; "We've given Phreestyle Sport the mandate to talk to players and officials of all the participating teams during the upcoming tournament in Ilorin, on 'leadership and attitude management'.





"The club managers, coaches, and captains will be tutored on 'leadership' and the 'attitude management' is meant for the entire teams," said the seasoned Sports Journalist.





Shamsudeen urged teams in the Nigeria leagues to organize seminars regularly for their players reminding them that football is not yet a profession neither a career in Nigeria.




Meanwhile, the organizers of Gold Cup Tourney have reached a partnership agreement with Rashidi Yekini Foundation as one of the partners of the 10-day football fiesta.




However, former Super Falcons and Sunshine Queens defender, Esther Edem, who currently ply her trade with Rops Naiset Rovaniemi of Finland, has pledged to reward the tournament Most Valuable Player MVP with a cash prize.




2017 Aiteo Cup winner, Akwa United shotstopper Olorunleke Ojo, has promised to support the Gold Cup organisers by rewarding  the best goalkeeper of the Pre-season with hand gloves and Jerseys.




The participating teams are Lobi Stars, MFM FC, Niger Tornadoes, Rivers United, Kwara United, Katsina United, Remo Stars, ABS FC, Crown FC and FC Ebedei.






Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament is sponsored by distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, Dr. Buhari Abdul-Fatai (BAF), Nigeria Football Federation Executive Committee Member, Alhaji  Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, foremost betting company, Bet9ja, Nigeria leading sportswear firm, 'Cone', Naija League Magazine, Tribeca Code, Phoenix ASC, Matchroom, Sportspro, Select Sports, Bovina View Hotel, Stadium Hotel, New-Bell Global Investment, 11th Media Global Concept, Phreestyle Sports and Rashidi Yekini Foundation.

Super Eagles to tackle Argentina in pre World Cup friendly

The Nigeria Super Eagles will take on South America giants Argentina in their first pre World Cup 2018 friendly game, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers. 

Nigeria have been searching for friendly games to help the team prepare adequately for the World Cup in Russia next year after sealing qualification with a game to spare courtesy of their 1-0 win over Zambia.

Their last group game , which is away to Algeria will take place on the 10th of November, and shortly after the game the team will play their first pre World Cup friendly game.

The Nigeria Football Federation ( NFF) have agreed a friendly game with Argentina which will take place in Russia on the 14th of November ‎, four days after their dead rubber World Cup 2018 Qualifiers tie against Algeria.

Just like Nigeria, Argentina are also through to next year World Cup and the game will help them prepare adequately for the tournament, after qualifying for the tournament in dramatic circumstances on the final day of the South America qualifiers with a 3-1 win away to Ecuador.

- Owngoal

Super Falcons get new technical adviser

Nigeria Football Federation has approved the appointment of American gaffer Randy Jordan Waldrum as the technical adviser of the Nigerian women team, the Super Falcons. 

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board  seating in Jos on Thursday approved the recommendation of its Technical and Development Committee for the appointment of Randy Waldrum who was till last year, the coach of Trinidad & Tobago’s women’s national team.

The board of the NFF in a communiqué of its meeting has directed the secretariat to immediately conclude negotiations with Waldrum.

The incoming coach who will take over from Florence Omagbemi started his coaching career at Austin College in the United States in 1982   leading the men’s soccer team to four victories, 12 drawn games and a loss in his first stint as coach.

In 1988, he was the head men’s soccer coach at Texas Wesleyan University and compiled a 6–10 record. From 1989 to 1994, he coached both the men’s and women’s soccer teams at the University of Tulsa.

He later led the Notre Dame women’s soccer team to two national championships, in 2004 and 2010. The 2010 title game was his 300th match at Notre Dame

Nigeria can go far in 2018 World Cup – CAF president, Ahmad Ahmad

Akanni Seyi

Confederation of African Football (CAF), President Ahmad Ahmad is confident that the Super Eagles of Nigeria can win the World Cup in Russia next year.

Ahmad Ahmad who was in Nigeria over the weekend for an emergency football stakeholder meeting and also the AITEO Cup finals said the Eagles can make history by going far in the tournament and eventually win the glamorous mundial.

"Nigeria is the strongest team from Africa going to the World Cup, hence much is expected of the Super Eagles in Russia next year.

"We are expecting so much from Nigeria as they head to Russia. Amaju Pinnick ( President, Nigeria Football Federation) has done so much for the country by supporting the change in CAF and to qualify Nigeria for the World Cup.

"Nigeria need to reciprocate all the support by doing well in the World Cup," Ahmad Ahmad concluded.

Nigeria became the first African country to qualify for next year's mundial in Russia, after defeating Zambia by a lone goal courtesy of Alex Iwobi's second half strike.

Nigeria have reached the second round in the past which happened thrice in 1994, 1998 and 2014.

Lobi Stars, Kwara Utd kick off Gold Cup Tourney

Defending champions Lobi Stars Football Club will lock horns against Nigeria Professional Football League newcomers, Kwara United FC, as the 5th edition of the Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament kicks-off on Wednesday November 15, in Ilorin, Kwara State.




The game will be played at the Main Bowl of the Kwara Stadium as they are both drawn in Group A, disclosed the General Coordinator of the most elaborate Pre-Season tourney, Tunde Shamsudeen.




"The fixture of the 10-day tourney has been drawn, as the trio of Remo Stars, Crown FC and debutants Rivers United completes the group which has been tagged 'Group of Death'.




"Last year's runner-up now CAF Champions League campaigners, Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministires (MFM FC) leads Group B with Aiteo Cup runners-up, Niger Tornadoes, Katsina United, FC Ebedei and former NPFL giant-killers, ABS FC of Ilorin," said Shamsudeen.




There will be other Group A matches as two known gladiators in the Gold Cup tourney, MFM FC and Tornadoes renew their rivalry when they draw swords at Kwara Football Academy practice pitch B.




It will be an emotional one for Coach Fatai Osho as he will be leading his Remo Stars against his former team, Crown FC at the practice pitch A of the KFA.




The pre-season tournament is sponsored by distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, Dr. Buhari Abdul-Fatai (BAF), Nigeria Football Federation Executive Committee Member, Alhaji  Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, alongside foremost betting company, Bet9ja, Nigeria leading sportswear firm, 'Cone', Naija League Magazine, Tribeca Code, Phoenix ASC, Matchroom, Sportspro, Bovina View Hotel, Stadium Hotel and New-Bell Global Investment.

Nigeria climbs up in FIFA ranking

Following their impressive outing against Zambia, Gernot Rohr's men have moved up three places in the rating released on Monday

Nigeria are now ranked 41st in the world according to October Fifa ranking released on Monday.

In September, the Super Eagles dropped six places despite their impressive outing against Cameroon – where they got four points over two legs.

Gernot Rohr’s men will have their 1-0 victory over Zambia to thank as that powered them up with 721 points, though are ranked fifth in Africa behind Tunisia, Egypt, Senegal and Congo DR.

Respect club's rules, Silva cautioned Success

The coach of English Premiership side Watford FC Marco Silva has fired warning to ex- junior international, Isaac Success to conduct himself in the right way and adhere strictly to the club’s rules, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.


Isaac Success The former Golden Eaglets star was arrested in London last month for disorderly conduct, after inviting four prostitutes for a binge in a hotel. An argument ensured after Success demanded a refund of his money when the women failed to perform to his expectation after paying them 500 pounds each.


 “He needs to be careful – everyone needs to be careful – and know the right way,” said the Portuguese Silva. “Everybody at the club knows the rules and their obligations as a professional.”


“What we are talking about is one situation in September,” added Silva, who refused to reveal whether Watford would discipline the forward. Success, 21, joined the Hornets for a then club-record fee of £12.5m from Spanish club Granada in August 2016, signing a five-year contract.

He managed just one goal from 19 games last season, netting against Bournemouth over a year ago, and has yet to feature for Silva in the Premier League this season.


However, he now faces eight weeks out with injury following a knee injury sustained in training.


 “We expect six to eight weeks,” said Silva. “It’s a knee injury, a problem he had in one session here.”

 “It was a normal situation and looked nothing special at that moment but after examinations, the problem is bigger and now we need to wait for him.”


Success’ sole appearance for Watford this season came as a second-half substitute in their 3-2 defeat by Bristol City in the Carabao Cup in August.

Senator Saleh honours Babayaro, Lawal, others

Correspondence

No fewer than 30 footballers, Coaches and Sports Administrators who have made their mark in contributing to the development of football in Kaduna and the nation were on Sunday honoured by immediate past Senator representing Kaduna Central, Senator Sani Saleh.

One of the group matches of the ongoing Senator Sani Saleh Peace and Unity Cup which was played at the Ungwan Yelwa Primary School Football Field in Kaduna between star studded Narayi and Sabon Gari ended in a goalless draw after both teams failed to convert chances.


The exciting game was indeed a huge success as spectators trooped in to be thrilled with lovely football skills. Players and officials who have made Nigerians proud in the past were called up at half time to receive an honorable award for their services to humanity.

Some of the notable recipients are ex internationals, Emmanuel Babayaro, Garba Lawal and Ishaya Jatau.


Wife’s and children of some deceased players and officials were also presented with bags of rice, gallons of vegetable oil and cash awards.


Earlier, Efe Ambrose had presented an authentic version of his jersey to Senator Sani Saleh as an appreciation for his contributions to development of football at the grassroots.


Top dignitaries spotted at the event were former Kaduna State FA Chairman and Commissioner of Sports, Honourable Shehu Adamu, former Kaduna United Chairman, Honourable Sabo Babayaro, former Chairman Chikun Local Government Council, Hajia Hadiza Yahuza and President GRASOF, Kaduna State FA Chairman, Hon Sheriff Alkassim, Kaduna FA Secretary, Abdusallam Jere and GRASSOF President, Honourable Babami Danlami.

At the end of the competition, winners are expected to win a brand new Sharon Space Bus, runner-up will smile to the bank with one million Naira, while second runners-up are expected to get N500,000.


All the matches of the competition will be played among three pitches; Chawai Road Primary School Tudun Wada, Kawo Primary School and Ungwan Yelwa Primary School.

Ahead of new season, Rivers United retain 21 players

Akanni Seyi

Rivers United will commence preparations for the 2017/18 season on Monday, October 16, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.



General manager of the club, Chief Okey Kpalukwu as well as technical manager, Stanley Eguma revealed that arrangement is in top gear to get set for the new NPFL season.


According to Club Media, 21 players have been retained by the club for the new season.

The retained players are


1.   Festus Austine

2.  Sunday Rotimi

3.  Abiodun Akande

4.  Chiwendu Ali

5.  Markson Ojobo

6.  Bernard Ovoke

7.  Guy Kuemian

8.  Olalekan Gabriel

9.  Ayobami Asekunowo

10.  Semiu Liadi

11. Obomate Frederick

12.   Daniel Israel

13.  Weli Christian

14.  Kingsley Patrick

15.  Bolaji Sakin

16.   Emeka Ogbugh

17.   Aliasou Sanou

18.   Doumbia Zoumana

19.   Emeka Atuloma

20.  Kanoute Abdoulaye

21. Ifeanyi Nweke

Rivers United finished the NPFL 2016/17 season in the 15th position with 52
points from 38 matches.

Everton, the Brazilian appointed as Abia Warriors FC coach

The Umuaiah based Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) outfit, Abia Warriors have announced erstwhile FC lfeanyi Ubah gaffer as the club’s new manager, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.


The former FC Ifeanyi Ubah coach will take over as the manager of the Umuahia based club from the 2017/18 season, after reaching contract agreements with the top flight club.


The Brazilian coach won the Federations Cup with the Anambra Warriors in 2016, but parted ways with the Nnewi based club in 2017 on mutual agreement.


Abia Warriors announced Everton as the club’s new manager on Thursday, as a replacement for Abdullahi Biffo who is heading to the Nigeria National U20
team as an assistant coach later in the year.


Abia Warriors media officer Igwe Onuoha divulged to Naijafootballplus.com that the Brazilian will be unveiled in Umuahia next week.

“We have reached an agreement with Everton and he will be our new manager.

"He will come down to Nigeria next week and the unveiling ceremony will come up soon.


"The details of his contract will be revealed next week, we have a new manager that will take over from Biffo,” said Onuoha.


Abia Warriors finished the NPFL 2016/17 season in the 12th position with 53
points from 38 matches, surviving relegation on the last day.

Osun weightlifter helps Nigeria to win 9 gold medals at the Continental Championship

Tajudeen Ahmad

State of Osun young female weightlifter, Islamia Yusuf again wrote her name with golden pen in the book of record as she assisted Nigeria to win 9 nine gold medals in the African  weightlifting Championship  in Entebbe, Uganda.

Islamia who was one of the few weightlifters selected by the Nigerian Weightlifting Federeration after few day training exercise in Abuja surprised the officials by winning 3 out of 9 gold medals which Nigeria won in the continental championship where over 15 countries participated .

With this feat, the 15 year-old secondary school student has become the African champion in this category, a springboard towards representing the continent at the world stage.

Reacting to the performance, head of Osun weightlifting coach Mr Kola Afinni and two weightlifting coaches in the State Messrs Rufus Adeyemi and Odogwu John appreciated the governor, State of Osun Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola for providing all logistics support in making her travelling possible.

"we are grateful for the God sent governor, Ogbeni Aregbesola because of what he is doing for sports to thrive in the state. This success started when the governor promptly released the fund required for the National Youth Games in Ilorin where Osun contingent won many medals.

 We also thank the Commissioner for Sports, Special Needs and Social Protection Comrade Biyi Odunlade for his quick response to the request of the sports council whenever the need arises. We also call on Mr Governor to assist us in the provision of more training materials, particularly Barbell which will assist all upcoming weightlifters in the state to be at par with their colleagues across the world" ,said coach Adeyemi.

Speaking via a telephone call, the new African weightlifting gold medallist, Islamia Yusuf said she was grateful to God, the Governor and his coaches who believed in her ability to excel. She said it was amazing that she won 3 gold medals in her first time of representing the state of Osun in the National Youth Games and another 3 gold medals for Nigeria in Uganda in her first time of representing the country.

"I never thought this would happen now in my life because this is my first year of any major tournament. I promise not to rest on my oars" , chided Islamia.

Officials of the State of Osun sports council are in high spirit to welcome Islamia back to the state as the tournament has ended with Nigeria contingent ranked among the best with 9 gold medals.

It would be recalled that Islamia won 3 gold medals in the just concluded National Youth Games which held at the University of Ilorin, Kwara State last month.

NWFL board members, players in Edo community development

The board members of the Nigeria Women's Football League, NWFL, and players competing in the NWFL Super 4 on Wednesday afternoon paid a visit to the Emotan Secondary School, Wire Road, Benin City, Edo State in the Aisha Falode initiative to encourage young Nigerians in schools to effectively combine education with sports, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.


In a release by Dapo Sotuminu, NWFL Vice Chairman, RT. Honourable Icheem Margaret, led other board members: Joe Amene, Alh. Mustapha Tahir, Honourable Kemisola Adesanya, Hajiya Hussein's Suleiman, Henrietta Ukaigwe, Alhaji Abdullahi Mustapha, Matilda Otuene and the NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Ayo Abdulrahman to the NWFL Developmental Programme that had large attendance of students.


The players representatives from the four clubs in the Super 4 : Tochi Oluehi, Catherine  A Kenneth, Charity John and Arit Itu, from Rivers Angels, and Chioma Nwankwo, Nnodim Sarah, Mariah Ibrahim and Igboamalu Chinyere from Nasarawa Amazons to speak to the female students to embrace sports as they study hard to achieve greatness in their education.

The players who were introduced one after the other by Ayo Rahalman, told the students numbering over two thousand that their  various personal experiences, how playing football and focusing on their education have helped them become the bread winners in their various families. The players urged the students to go the extra mile in ensuring that they engage in one sport or the other, as this will go a long way in aiding their easy assimilation of  studies as sports will enable them to be mentally alert at all times.


The students asked questions on how they can become successful female footballers. The majority of the students of Emotan praised the Aisha Falode-led board and appealed to the leadership of the NWFL to speak to the school authority to detail a Sports Master that would start teaching them how to play football and compete in other sports as soon as possible.


The NWFL Vice Chairman, RT Honourable Icheem Margaret, promised to take the students' message to the NWFL Chairperson, who she assured would take urgent steps to make the dreams of the  students at Emotan Secondary School come true.

New NPFL season must end before Russia 2018 World Cup - Dikko

Chairman of the League Management Company of Nigeria, LMC, Malam Shehu Dikko has today, told news men in Kano at the opening ceremony of this year's Kano state Tofa premier league that the 2017/2018 Nigerian professional football league season will kick start after due consultations with the Club Chairmen.


Dikko emphasis that the new Nigerian professional football league season, NPFL, will start early and ends before the Russia 2018 World Cup.


On mid week and weekend matches as we witness during the 2016/2017 season, Dikko said "that will be sorted out with the club chairmen before the start of the season and CAF has given order to all continent football federations to align their league calendars with that of the European leagues which usually starts by August and ends by May."


He declared that, the new season must finished before the World Cup.


On fans violence in our match venues. According to Dikko, LMC, will sit and have a round table discussion with the leadership of all the 20 NPFL clubs to fish out ways on how to assuage such bad behaviours and to go back and inform those fans that football is not a do or die affairs.


Dikko also commended the government of Kano state, former nff Chairman, Alhaji Ibrahim Galadima, Kano state FA chairman Sharu Inuwa Rabiu Ahlan and the sponsor of Kano state Tofa premier league, Alhaji Isiyaku Umar, Dan Adalan Kano for organizing such a huge competition over the years.

Gold Cup tourney name Select as official match ball

Select Sports company Denmark  have confirmed its partnership with the Gold Cup preseason tournament.



Its ball will serve as the official match balls when the 5th edition of the prestigious tourney for clubs in Nigeria's domestic league kicks off in Ilorin, Kwara State.



Sole representatative of the Danish sports brand in Africa, Emmauel Ifeanyi Ekwueme, an ex Super Eagles star who's based in Poland, disclosed: "We are delighted to enter a partnership deal with the organisers of the Gold Cup Tournament.



"Over the years, its standard has gown looking at the caliber of teams that has taken part in it.



"Its a productive platform for teams to know their strength and weakness before starting the season.



"The end result, is success for teams too. Give it to the organiser who have broken boundaries, they deserve all encomiums.



"This informed why we want to be part of the Gold Cup by been official sponsor through our balls that will be used throughout the tournament.



"Our balls are the best balls at the moment in the world, that's why the German Bundesliga is using it as official match balls.



"Rangers International of Enugu and Heartland used it and recorded success with our product.



"The Flying Antelopes, broke its 32-year no silverware jinx winning the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) title, while Heartland are on the verge of gaining promotion to the top flight just a season in the second tier division.



"Select balls will be shared to the 10 participating teams to use for their training sessions and matches during the Gold Cup tournament.



'Gifts will be presented to most valuable player, highest goal scorer, best coach, team and organiser of the tournament."



The General Coordinator of the most glamorous Pre-Season tourney in the country, Tunde Shamsudeen, expressed appreciation to Select Sports for the partnership.


The pre-season tournament is sponsored by distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, Dr. Abdulfatai Buhari, Nigeria Football Federation Executive Committee Member, Alhaji Yusuf Freshahmed Ahmed, alongside foremost betting company, Bet9ja, Nigeria leading sportswear firm, 'Cone', Naija League Magazine, Tribeca Code, Phoenix ASC, Matchroom, Sportspro, Bovina View Hotel, and Stadium Hotel.

Falode applauds Eagles on 2018 World Cup ticket

Aisha Falode, the chairperson of the Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has congratulated the Super Eagles of Nigeria over the team's qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.


According to a statement released by her media aide Dapo Sotuminu, Falode commended the Eagles' heroics after a very tough challenge from the Chipolopolo of  Zambia.


She said: "Alex Iwobi's wonderful strike was well deserved and it came at a time Nigerians expected the Eagles' stars to nail the opponent to the cross.


"The goal scored in the 73rd minute came as a result of perfect team work which existed in the Eagles right from the first qualifiers in Ndola against Zambia."


The NWFL boss also congratulated the Amaju Pinnick-led NFF board for motivating the team during the qualifiers such that the Eagles emerged the first African team to qualify for the 2018 World Cup finals with one outstanding match.


"The last time this happened to the Eagles was ahead of the France 98 World Cup. With what the Eagles displayed on Saturday in Uyo, it was clear the team's glory days are back." She concluded.

Gunners Golden Boy Shoots Nigeria To Russia

Akanni Seyi 

Alex Iwobi's 73rd minute goal proved to be the difference between Nigeria and aspiring Chipolopolo of Zambia enroute Russia. 

The Super Eagles of Nigeria became the first African national team to qualify for the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria could not unlock the defense of the visitors in first half but Odion Ighalo and captain Mikel Obi should have sent the host forward but their efforts were diverted outwards in an attempt to volley in. 

Deep into second half, Arsenal forward, Alex Iwobi was introduced and he made series of runs to unsettle Zambia defense, moment of respite finally came to the thousands spectators when Victor Moses sets up Sheu Abdullahi who in turn whips in diagonally to locate unmarked Arsenal forward Alex Iwobi who made no mistake to bury a stunning effort past helpless Kennedy Mweene.

Zambians deployed a long range tactics to rattle the defense of Nigeria Super Eagles but the pairing of Ekong and Balogun proved too steel for the visitor to break. 

The African giants qualified on Saturday evening after defeating visitors Zambia 1-0 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

With the result, the Super Eagles are not mandated to win their last game against Algeria on the 6th of November in the North African Nation as it is now a dead rubber.

The Super Eagles qualified with 13 points from Group B with Zambia having 7 points, Cameroon with 6 and Algeria bottom with 1 point.

Rohr insists Super Eagles will not underrate the Chipolopolo of Zambia

Akanni Seyi

Nigeria Super Eagles will have their hands full when they engage highly mobile Chipolopolo of Zambia in a must win encounter today.


Although, there are injury concern in the camp of Wedson Nyirenda tutored sides with late withdrawals of some of their top players.


U20 AFCON MVP Patson Daka, who scored the only goal that nailed Algeria in Algiers is an injury doubt for coach Nyirenda.
The team Doctors are sweating really hard to get the Red Bull Salzburg forward in shape before the match.


Also, Brian Mwila and Emmanuel Banda are injured, while Edward Chilufya pulled out as he has yet to finalise on his resident permit at his base in Sweden.
Chipolopolo skipper and goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene is another major injury doubt in this must-win encounter.


Coach Wedson Nyirenda will have to rely on his substitutes having lauded the attitudes of his charges. "We are very much ready for this game, as for injuries, you must always make a plan B for injuries.

“Otherwise, we have what it takes.” Wedson Nyirenda disclosed  to newsmen.

Nigeria’s 64-year-old Franco-German coach Gernot Rohr will have to put behind the team's recent runs which include a 4-0 thrashing of African champions Cameroon and the fact that the Eagles will be playing at home in Uyo in front of thousands of supporters.


" It will be dangerous and suicidal to underrate the Chipolopolo of Zambia. This match would be more difficult than the match against Cameroon because Zambia have nothing to lose,” he warned.


“ They won two times against Algeria, they have a different team from the one we played one year ago, when we won in Zambia.


“They have a young team built around champions of Africa U20, so it would be a very tough game and we must be very strong to win it.” He concluded.

Ibrahim Musa elevated as Kano Pillars' Technical Adviser

The former Nigeria champion  Kano Pillars FC has confirmed its acting Technical Adviser Ibrahim A. Musa as its technical adviser in the forthcoming 2017/2018 NPFL season.


The chairman of the Club Alhaji Muhammad Tukur Babangida confirmed this in a statemenht signed by the club's media officer Rilwanu Idris Malikawa after the board's meeting at the club's Secretariat in Kano.


Alhaji Tukur Babangida said the board agreed that Ibrahim A. Musa would work with technical crew which includes Ahmad Garba Yaro-Yaro as chief coach, Christopher Friday as Assistant coach and Muzaumid Aliyu to retain his position as Goalkeeper trainer.


The chairman said the board appointed Kabiru Baleria as the team's Manager of the club with immediate efffect.


He said the confirmation of the technical crew to lead the team was based on their commitment when they were in acting capacity in the last season and hoped they would tighten their belts and work hard to redeem the glory of thte club in the forthcoming season.


He said based on the report of the technical crew the club had agreed to retain twenty two players out of the thirty five players registered last season and the rest lof the players were redeployed to junior Kano pillars FC and those on loan which expired can decide their future in the club.


Alhaji Babangidda said players redeployed to junior team was based on their perfrormances and technical reasons and their wages would be re-negotiated.


He said the club invited six new players to reinforce the team from various clubs within and outside the country wghile some of them are expected to be in Kano by this weekend to join the team training session on Monday 9/10/2017.


The chairman said all the retained players are directed to resume training on Monday and any player who fails to show up should have himself to blame  on any action against him.


He commended Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje for his moral and financial support to the club and thanked fans, state football association, SWAN kano chapter, security personnel, state referees council and entire people of Kano state for their continued support to the club and hoped they would sustain the tempo.


He said the board has commenced preparation ahead of next season and assured that they would do everything humanly possible to reclaim the club's position as Nigeria champion at the end of the season.

WCQ: We shall respond to Chipolopolo on the pitch - Mikel

Super Eagles’ captain Mikel John Obi has declared the players have no
need to say too much before Saturday’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying
match against Zambia’s Chipolopolo.

The 2012 Africa Cup of Nations champions visit the 2013 winners in a
match of high importance at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium
in Uyo, which should determine the swing of Africa’s Group B ticket to
football’s biggest houseparty in Russia next year summer.

“We know how important the match is; that is enough motivation to go
all out and give our very best. There are several players in this team
who have not played at the FIFA World Cup. They want to be there in
Russia next year.

“The talking will be done on the pitch. I have no doubt we have the
quality to achieve victory, but we will not make the mistake of under
–rating the Zambians.”

The former Chelsea FC of England enforcer told thenff.com that a good
run in the qualifying campaign has been down to focus, determination
and massive support of all Nigerians, and believes the same indices
are in place for Saturday.

“We have played four matches in the campaign so far, but this one is
the match. We are fully focused and ready. All we want is the usual
support and encouragement by everyone involved, including the fans who
will turn out at the match venue.”

Table –toppers Nigeria will qualify for a sixth FIFA World Cup
appearance with the minimum victory on Saturday. The match kicks off
at 5pm.

Bovina View, Stadium Hotel, SportsPro partner Gold Cup tourney

The Gold Cup Pre-Season got a big boost as two first-class Ilorin based hotels, Bovina View, Stadium Hotel and sports news bulletin, SportsPro have partnered with the Gold Cup Pre-season tournament.




General Coordinator of the county's most glamourious and prestigious club tourney, Tunde Shamsudeen, disclosed after the pact with the two hotels and news bulletin; "We are delighted to announce Bovina View and Stadium Hotel as our official partners.




"Bovina View, a three star rated hotel in Ilorin is a choice haven to behold and its services are first-class.




"Their facilities meet standard for Nigeria Professional Football League clubs who intend to use the swimming pool and gym to prepare their players for a game.




"The environment is also a lush one, as players can cool off surfing the internet, as there is free Wi-Fi for customers."




"Stadium Hotel is cost-effective for clubs with conducive accommodation. Their services are of standard and its easy drive to the Ilorin Stadium."




Meanwhile, passionate Ilorin fans can get up-to-date news and exclusive interviews with action pictures daily, as their numero uno sports bulletin, SportsPro is the official bulletin of the Gold Cup tourney.




Bayour Issah, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief said, "The annual tourney over the years has provided the platform for clubs, players, scouts, coaches and other stakeholders to explore the unique opportunites and take the domestic football to the next level.




"I commend Tunde Shamsudeen and the media team for a job weldone too, as they have been consistent in terms of quality organisation and reportage of the championship."




The pre-season tournament is sponsored by distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, Dr. Abdulfatai Buhari, alongside foremost betting company, Bet9ja, Nigeria leading sportswear firm, 'Cone', Naija League Magazine, Tribeca Code, Phoenix ASC, and Matchroom.

Players, Coaches Our Vital Assets In NLO – Alkali

As the three-day  Coerver Coaching Course began in Abuja on Tuesday, Mohammed Alkali, the chairman of Nationwide League One (NLO) has said that players and coaches are the vital assets in the League, stressing further that the  players must be nurtured into greatness by coaches, while also ensuring that opportunities are created for the coaches to refresh their knowledge by attending  Internationally recognised Coaching Courses.

This was contained in the speech delievered by Ahmed Muazu Kawu, the Chief Executive Officer of the NLO on behalf of the Chairman at the opening ceremony of Coerver Coaching Course at the FIFA  goal project , Abuja National Stadium.

“ The greatest assests of football in Nigeria are the players . Nigeria is not short of talented footballers, but what has been lacking over the years is the technical details and output from our players on the field of play that would not edged out the opponents”, Alkali said.

Adding that : “The human resources to impact these technical details and output are the coaches. Therefore , the players and coaches are very vital components in the NLO”.

Alkali also affirmed that coaches are very essential to the development of budding talents in Nigeria and they can never be neglected by the Nationwide League One or the parent football body in Nigeria, which is the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF.

“ The coaches are integral part of football and undergoing coaching courses should be the norm of the coaching profession. Our drive in NLO is strictly on we can develop the game at the grassroot and our focus is not just on the players, but also on the coaches in various clubs across the country,” he said.

There are about 60 Nigerians coaches across various clubs in the Nationwide League currently undergoing the Coerver coaching course which will end on Thursday

Super Eagles under pressure - Kalusha Bwalya

Akanni Seyi


Zambian football legend Kalusha Bwalya says the Chipolopolo have the capacity to beat Nigeria in Saturday’s 2018 Russia World Cup qualifier in Uyo.



Zambia beat Algeria 3-1 in Lusaka before edging the Desert Foxes 1-0 in Constantine.


Kalusha noted: "Zambia have done exceptionally well in the last two games against Algeria.


"The clash in Uyo will be a high-pressure match and Nigeria will be under pressure to contain the highly inspired bullets". He stated.


Meanwhile, more foreign based players have joined the Chipolopolo camp in Accra Ghana.
Russia based striker Fashion Sakala and Stoppilla Sunzu of Arsenal Tula joined the squad and were part of the afternoon training session at the Marcel Desailly Sports Complex.


Coach Wedson Nyirenda's charges are currently in Accra to acclimatize to West African conditions before the match on Saturday.

Sakala and Sunzu join Justin Shonga and Roderick Kabwe on early arrivals for duty.


Nigeria Super Eagles had earlier won the first leg with two goals to one (2-1), courtesy of first half goals from A. Iwobi and K. Iheanacho while C. Mbesuma reduced the tally in the second half at Levy Nwanawasa Stadium in Ndola.

I’m open to any club that needs my service – Ogunbote

Coach Gbenga Ogunbote, has stated that he is open to any club that needs his service as his contract with Enyimba Intl FC, expires, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.



Oracle as the former Sunshine Stars gaffer is fondly called said he is unsure about his future with the People’s Elephant while stating he remains a free agent after the expiration of his one year contract.



The former Shooting Stars merchant tactician who has been linked to jobs at top Nigerian Professional Football League outfits, said he will love to continue his good work with Enyimba if the club open discussion with him, but didn’t rule out joining another club side.



Asked how he felt with Enyimba talking to Imama Amapakabo and Ghanaian coach Maxwell Konadu, the 54-year-old gaffer said hence his contract has expired, Enyimba is free to talk to any coach of her choice and he’s also free to open discussion with any team that needs his service.



Ogunbote opined he expect himself to have a clear view of his next destination in the next one week.

Ilorin gets Gold Cup Pre-Season hosting right

.As Fresh pledges support



The organizers of Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament have concluded plans to stage the fifth edition of Nigeria's most glamorous pre-season tourney in Ilorin, Kwara State capital.



Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi are defending champions after they defeated Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministry (MFM FC) 5-4 on penalties in the finale in Ijebu-Ode.



MFM FC and Enyimba International Football Club participated in the last edition of the tourney in Ijebu-Ode, the two teams had a successful campaign in the recently concluded Nigeria Professional Football League season and they will be flying the Nigerian flag in 2017/18 CAF Champions League and Confederation Cup respectively.



Ten clubs in the NPFL, Nigeria National League and Nationwide League One, have signified their interest to take part in the most elaborate and prestigious tourney, as its a platform to prepare for the new season.



General Coordinator of the club tourney, Tunde Shamsudeen disclosed; "Ilorin is the new host of the Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament, as Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State has been host of the past editions.



"We are glad that the State of Harmony has agreed to host reason been, we want to have different state host the tournament.



"You would agree with me that Ilorin is a good choice as its fans are passionate,  keen followers of our three tier leagues,”



Meanwhile, the Chairman NFF Referees Appointment Committee and member CAF Technical Committee, Alhaji Ahmed Yusuf Fresh (Sardauna Kwallow Najeriya), has vowed to support this year's event.



Fresh said; "As the only well organized and elaborate Pre-Season tourney in the country, this really inspired me to support the organizers.



"MFM and Enyimba, played the last tourney and they're able to pick continental tickets, and the smooth run of Niger Tornadoes in the Aiteo Cup is also a added plus for the tournament," the astute football administrator concluded.



The pre-season tournament is sponsored by distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, Dr. Abdulfatai Buhari, alongside foremost betting company, Bet9ja, Nigeria leading sportswear firm, 'Cone', Naija League Magazine, Tribeca Code, Phoenix ASC, and Matchroom.

AITEO Cup: Agege gingers up…

Top officials of the Nigeria Football Federation led by the President, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick, were at the Agege Stadium, Lagos on Sunday on a first inspection ahead of the grand finale of this year’s AITEO Cup competition, codedreporter.blogspot.com.ng gathers.



Pinnick was joined by 1st Vice President, Barr. Seyi Akinwunmi, 2nd Vice President/LMC chairman, Mr. Shehu Dikko, Executive Committee members Sharif Rabiu Inuwa and Aisha Falode, President of the Nigeria Referees Association, Tade Azeez, NFF’s Director of Communications Ademola Olajire and CAF Assistant General Coordinator Samson Adamu.



The inspection team checked out several areas of the facility, nicknamed The Soccer Temple, and which has been slated to host the men’s grand finale of the AITEO Cup competition on Sunday, 15th October 2017.



Akinwunmi, who is also Chairman of the AITEO Cup Organizing Committee, told thenff.com after the inspection: “There are a few things we have to put right but, generally, we have a good facility here.



“From Monday (2nd October), work will begin on the few areas that we must put right and the other make –shift facilities that we would have to put up to achieve what we are determined to achieve.” Cup: Agege gingers up…



Top officials of the Nigeria Football Federation led by the President, Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick, were at the Agege Stadium, Lagos on Sunday on a first inspection ahead of the grand finale of this year’s AITEO Cup competition.



Pinnick was joined by 1st Vice President, Barr. Seyi Akinwunmi, 2nd Vice President/LMC chairman, Mr. Shehu Dikko, Executive Committee members Sharif Rabiu Inuwa and Aisha Falode, President of the Nigeria Referees Association, Tade Azeez, NFF’s Director of Communications Ademola Olajire and CAF Assistant General Coordinator Samson Adamu.



The inspection team checked out several areas of the facility, nicknamed The Soccer Temple, and which has been slated to host the men’s grand finale of the AITEO Cup competition on Sunday, 15th October 2017.



Akinwunmi, who is also Chairman of the AITEO Cup Organizing Committee, told thenff.com after the inspection: “There are a few things we have to put right but, generally, we have a good facility here.



“From Monday (2nd October), work will begin on the few areas that we must put right and the other make –shift facilities that we would have to put up to achieve what we are determined to achieve.”