Osun sports circle, a biblical Macedonia

Akanni Seyi

There's no gain saying the fact that the sports federations in the state of Osun are currently grasping at straws with nothing visibly seen as last resort, there's a need for immediate intervention and the new government must grease the wheel of our sports federations with training facilities as a matter of urgency.

The current terrain ensured that one has to move between 'Scylla and Charybdis' like the ancient ship in the Odyssey had to traverse a narrow straight between a whirl pool and the lair of a monster so as to subsist.

The state is definitely blessed with talents that are willing to fight for the state in the various sporting activities  but like a biblical Macedonia, who is going to come over and help the aspirations of these athletes? Definitely we need a Paul who is laden with interest to right the wrong in the sector.

Talents alone ain't enough to become a champion. Workers in the state have endured a lengthy period of hunger to sacrifice for infrastructural developments only for sporting facilities to suffer neglect. Schools were commissioned, hundreds kilometers of roads tagged 'Ona Baba Ona' have since been certified for use. 

The only 'Opomulero' city stadium known as the pride of Osun is still far from being completed. 

There is a need to call the attention of brother Paul to come to our Macedonia and help us at this juncture.

Yes, footballers abound in the state but where is the training pitch? boxers are willing to train but where is the ring? Kids wanted to become a super rider but where are bicycles? No lawns nor tables for tennis players, no track to train athletes to stardom, weightlifters are subjecting themselves to torrid conditions to get something done.

Personal efforts of our numerous athletes and their coaches have been bringing laurels to our dear state. Adegoke Abdullah, a fast rising taekwondo athlete is a blessing to this state, having achieved so much in 2013 National Youth Games, also grabbed gold in NIPOGA 2014, he attended Youth Olympics and Junior World championship in 2014 with classy performances but today, where's the motivation? Taekwondo alone has given the state 54 medals, since 2013, 16 gold 14 silver 24 bronze.

Same goes to Islamiat Yusuf who is becoming fast rising in weight-lifting and few other athletes that have written the name of this dear state in Gold. We should encourage and motivate these lads for what the future holds for them. 

State of Osun FA cadets have just made a landmark history in Sagamu by winning both U-13 and U-15 coveted trophies in the zonal Future Eagles Championship. The question is which facility are they using for their training? Well, this is another opportunity for the state government to shower encomium and reward these junior soldiers adequately.

Osun contingents at the just concluded National Sports Festival almost ended up in a vicious cycle if not for individual effort of immediate past commissioner for Social Protection, Sports and Special Needs, Com. Biyi Odunlade whose effort in securing funds for the athletes and officials yielded a last minute result, eliminating fear of being absent at the glamorous festival, for how long would this menace of 'no fund' tonic be heard, which is apparently as phony as three-dollar bill. 

State of Osun had an overwhelming performance at the festival amassing a total of 33 medals, 8 gold, 7 silver and 18 bronze, as we have finally pinned 13th on the medals table. This is a state that arrived the festival on game day even without a concrete monetary compensation plan for the medals won unlike a state like Delta that promised a whooping million naira for each gold won. 

Sports contributes to higher levels of self-esteem and self-worth. Helps to sustain the environment through protecting open space and natural areas. Sporting activities remain the hub of community life, especially in the regions. It also provides economic growth through business investments, employment, major events and tourisim, therefore, this government is expected to settle down on-time and invest heavily in this sector in order to avoid betting on wrong horse.

Going by the high flying status of Osun athletes in various competitions, one would conclude that in less than a month in the office, Governor Gboyega Oyetola's regime has witnessed a foundational, revolutionary and cutting-edge achievements, more reasons the number one citizen must shift focus in a bid to revamping the sector.

His Excellency is seriously toiling day and night, making contacts, seeking assistance from relevant stakeholders to fix bad roads and revamp the economy of the state, also, government should endeavors to bring in private investors directly into the sporting sector with clear cut policy statements. Osun have lost promising talents to various states owing to poor facilities and paltry compensation system.

Of a truth, the future is bright and state of Osun will rise again. One must give kudos to individuals who have shown great commitments in sustaining the sector for us. They are too numerous to mention but credit should be given  to the 'Pillar Of Sports' in the state, The 'Fiwajoye' himself, Chief Joseph Taiwo Ogunjobi for his constant and unwavering supports.

Sports nowadays have proven to be a gravy train with proper investments and youths in order to make a living beacon, no longer need to have their hands in the till. 

Macedonians need Paul for survival, same way state of Osun sports sector in sheer need of the rapt attention of government genuinely, here is a MAN from Macedonia beckoning

U-17 AFCON: Golden Eaglets get opponents drawn in 'Group A'

Akanni Seyi

The Golden Eaglets of Nigeria have been drawn in Group A for the up coming CAF 

U-17 African Cup of Nations in Tanzania next year.

Eaglets have picked the sole ticket from the WAFU U-17 qualifier, staged in Niger Republic after beating arch - rivals Black Starlets of Ghana 3-1 on penalties in the final.

Angola, Cameroon, Guinea, Morocco, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania and Uganda have been waiting anxiously for the draw which took place today at Mlimani City Conference Centre, Dar Es Salam.

Group A

Tanzania 

Nigeria 

Angola 

Uganda

Group B

Guinea 

Cameron 

Morocco 

Senegal

The semi-finalists will qualify to play in FIFA U 17 WorldCup 2019

@seyiakanni

Future Eagles: State of Osun showed supremacy in Zonal Competition

Greatness is nothing but repeated excellence as cadet players from the State of Osun demonstrated their supremacy once again in Sagamu at the just concluded NFF/Zenith Bank Future Eagles zonal competitions.



The State Football Association lads excelled in both categories of U-13 and U-15 tourney in brilliant fashions. The state endured a chastising first stanza in the hand of their Lagos counterparts before drawing level after the restart in the final of U-13 category.



The game would later stretched to penalty shootout and the luck swings to Omoluabi junior soldiers. Lagos State missed a kick while the eventual winner (State of Osun) didn't miss any from the spot.



The state U-15 boys enjoyed a smooth ride throughout their contest with Ogun. The red hot goal poacher Komolafe Samson was classy to behold throughout the encounter. The Ijesa born super kid scored twice as 'Ise ya' rhythm state was nailed by 4-1. Komolafe topped the scorers chat with 3 goals to his credit.



This is the first time state of Osun would sweep both honors in the two categories, having won U-15 category and came second in the U-13 category during the last edition in Sagamu.




The boys fought gallantly and it's back to back for U-15 boys as noted by the team coach Abdul Rasaq Azeez, " my boys are to be praised for taking note of our tactical assignments. They really responded when it matters most.



" We didn't have much time to prepare but they showed everyone that their minds were not in disarray from training to war front, I can see their resilience and mobility. I want to thank them for making the state proud, and I urge the management to wholly motivate these lads.

"The FA chairman, Chief Joseph Taiwo Ogunjobi has supported us greatly and we are seriously indebted to him. I want to urge the state government to kindly improve the sporting facilities in the state because, useful talents are seriously scattered across our dear state." Hoppers as he is fondly called submitted.




Fourteen (14) players were picked from the state's victorious U-13 and U -15 representatives to form part of the squad that will further represent the zone in the regional competition in Enugu.

_@seyiakanni_

Unuanel of Osun Utd is more matured than Unuanel of Prime FC

 

Seyi Joshua

Eight working days into his new assignment, the new gaffer in charge of Osun Utd David Samson Unuanel has declared that all hands must be on desk to propel the team back to where it belongs.

While reacting to series of questions posed to him on Osun State Broadcasting Corporations (OSBC), weekend sports chat, one time Kwara United tactician noted that, United is an household brand in which everyone has to contribute to restore its pride.

Unuanel is known for his radical believe in young and ambitious grassroots players as one could confirm from his last assignment before the new job at hand. 

"I have started inviting exceptional grassroots players from the ongoing 'Olansile Cup' and everyone would be given equal chance to showcase their talents in my work in progress squad. Soon we are going to invite individuals to compete with the players we have on ground now as the journey for raising a formidable team kick starts. 

" I am out to play purposeful football, Osun is blessed with young and talented players, no body can buy his way into my team, that's why I choose to work with grassroots for the past twenty two years.

"I don't have stars in my team, you can't have a first son before the father, a team is as good as the coach, Coach Samson is a disciplinarian, when you are making players feel too much of themselves that's when they misbehave, I instill discipline into my team because Coach Samson too is disciplined. 

" The team must work together, respect is reciprocal, my players don't take un neccesary yellow cards because I don't train player to be a rough one, everyone must work hard to achieve our goals. 

When quizzed about his assistants he said, " I have worked with them before, either as coaches or as player. I thank God they knew my philosophy and am happy they do tell players before my arrival that everyone must work hard intelligently to merit a place.

The gaffer then charged everyone to come around and work for the success of the team noting that Osun United is one of the clubs that ensure prompt payment of salary and other benefits meant for the players. 

" Samson of now is different from Samson of before, now am more matured and can deliver under any conditions. If goals didn't come in the early stages of our games, I assure the fans that the winning goals would come before the end of the game, therefore, I want to charge everyone to please come around and support the team positively" DSU as he's fondly called noted.

Fresh role for Mauren Mmadu at Nnewi United

The management of Nnewi United Football Club , a Nigeria National League outfit has appointed Maureen Mmadu as the Club Director and International Consultant, Coded Sports scooped.

Mmadu, a former skipper of the Super Falcons has UEFA Coaching certificate and she is a member of the technical crew of the Super Falcons that won the African Women Championship in Ghana two weeks ago and it is expected that she will use her wealth of experience to turn the fortunes of Nnewi United.

Mmadu had over 100 caps for the Super Falcons and she was an attacking midfielder in her active days with the national team

See the player killed by lightning during goal celebration

Kenyan footballer Allan Mbote, was struck dead by lightning as he celebrated his team’s equalizer against their opponents.


According to The Standard of Kenya, the victim, Allan Mbote, a 20-year-old Kenyatta University student, played as a defender for a team known as Red Sharks.

The incident happened on Sunday, with five other players also injured by the lightning during Nangina Ward Football Tournament at Luchululo village; three of the players are still on admission at Nangina Mission Hospital.


Kenyatta University has confirmed the death of the second year student.

The MP for the area, Dr. Oundo Mudenyo also sent his condolence as he wrote:


“Some tragedies are hard to take: lightening striking a player during a soccer match! RIP Allan Mbote.”

Mbote’s death was the latest lightning tragedy to hit Kenya in recent days, the news site reported.


@Socceruncle

U20 AFCON Draw, Flying Eagles in Group A

The Flying Eagles of Nigeria are in group A along Niger, South Africa and Burundi for the forthcoming African Cup of Nations U-20.


The Flying Eagles have since qualified for AFCON U-20 which will be staged in Niger  on February 2nd, 2019 after dispatching Mauritania 5-0 at Agege soccer temple.


Recall that, Nigeria Flying Eagles could not qualify for the last edition.


Group A (Niamey)

Niger
South Africa
Nigeria
Burundi

Group B (Maradi)

Senegal
Mali
Burkina Faso
Ghana

Tournament starts 2nd February and ends 17th February, 2019.

NFF will implement Reform Committee’s recommendations- Pinnick

President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Melvin Pinnick has made a firm pledge that the football –ruling body is ready and willing to implement the recommendations of the Reform Committee set up by the Executive Committee and endorsed by the NFF Congress at its Annual General Assembly in Asaba on 24th October 2018.



“There would have been no compelling need to put together this group of eminent Nigerians, persons of considerable weight and relevance across football and beyond, if we were not determined to implement the committee’s recommendations,” Pinnick said on Thursday at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Lagos as he inaugurated the 27 –member panel.



The committee is headed by the 1st Vice President of the NFF, Barrister Seyi Akinwunmi, and has among its terms of reference, the provision of the most stable and sustainable foundations for football in Nigeria, guaranteeing of commitment to the principles of good governance, inclusion and transparency in all areas of its operations which also requires its member associations, officials and employees to meet the high standards set in this regard, and adaptation to the latest development in the world of football to ensure that its operations and values adhere to the best governance principles possible.



The committee is also to progressively adopt a wide range of reforms that reflect the views of the Nigerian and International Football Community in order to meet the evolving needs of the modern game. At the end, it is to ensure that the principles enunciated by it and its recommendations which are accepted by the Executive Committee are incorporated into an amended version of the NFF Statutes and pave the way for further significant and munch –needed changes to the Federation’s governance structure, electoral procedures and dispute resolution mechanism.



Pinnick, who is also the 1st Vice President of CAF and Member of the Organizing Committee for FIFA Competitions, praised the commitment of the eminent persons to serve, affirming his belief that the committee will come up with recommendations that will set Nigerian Football on the pathway to immense glory.



Akinwunmi has as deputy, the NFF 2nd Vice President, Mallam Shehu Dikko, with NFF Executive Committee members Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau and Hon. Chidi Ofo Okenwa, and the General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi also on the membership.



There are also Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi (Chairman, Osun State FA); Rt. Hon. Margaret Icheen (Chairman, Benue State FA); Alhaji Mohammed Nasir Saidu (Chairman, Sokoto State FA); Alhaji Garba Mohammed (Chairman, Yobe State FA) and; Barrister Poubeni Ogun (Chairman, Bayelsa State FA). Dr. Kweku Tandoh (Chairman, Lagos State Sports Commission); Barrister Godwin Dudu Orumen (Chairman, Edo State Sports Commission) and; Alhaji Farouk Yarma Adamu (Commissioner for Youth Empowerment, Gombe State) are there. Also in are Otunba Tade Azeez (President, Nigeria Referees Association); Mr. Dahiru Sadi (immediate past President, Players Union); Mr. Isa Ladan Bosso (President, Coaches Association); Barrister Isaac Dalandi (Chairman, NPFL Club Owners); Chief (Mrs) Dilichukwu Onyedinma (Director of Sports, FCT); Alh. Shuaib Gara-Gombe; business mogul Yemi Idowu; Barrister Sampson Ebomhe and veteran journalists Osasu Obayiuwana, Felix Awogu, Godwin Enakhena, Tony Ubani and Chisom Ezeoke.

19th NSF: Osun SWAN tasks state government on participation, welfare

As the 2018 National Sports Festival gets under way as from Thursday, 6th of December, the Osun State chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria SWAN, has urged the state government of Osun under new administration of Mr.Gboyega Oyetola, to urgently facilitate the participation of the state athletes at the festival which kick off on Thursday.


A release by the Chairman and Secretary of the association, Adeyemi Aboderin and Timothy Agbor, noted that prompt departure and support for the athletes at the festival is essential, considering the fact that the festival will start in few days time while timely departure of Osun State contingent to the venue will ensure that the athletes settle down on time and acclamatise with the weather in the North-Central region.


The association viewed that the participation of the state athletes at the festival will also cement the assurance the sports loving people of the state in the capability of the Governor, Mr.Gboyega Oyetola in the support and promotion of sports.


While been positive of participation of the state athletes at the festival in Abuja, SWAN therefore pledges support of its members for the new administration in achieving its blueprint on sports development and wishes the athletes from Osun state to the Sports festival the best.

Unuanel named new Osun Utd Head Coach

David Samson unuanel has been appointed the new coach of Nigeria National League side, Osun United Football Club.

Unuanel's appointment was announced on Monday afternoon after the Omoluabi Giants board approved his contract until the end of NNL 2018/2019 season.

The former Sunshine Stars and Kwara United gaffer will be assisted by Waheed Olapade as first assistant, and Rasheed Iyiola as second assistant. Olatunji Baruwa retained his position as the Goalkeeper trainer.

Unuanel will succeed ex- international  Duke Udi, who was brought back to the team mid last season.


Coach Unuanel is expected to ring changes that will change the fortune of the club. Omoluabi Giants narrowly escaped relegation last season.

Gold Cup success, a learning curve for Sunshine- Lama

Seyi Joshua


Basking in the euphoria of the recent feat attained by 'Akure Gunners', in the just concluded Gold Cup Preseason Tournament, the assistant coach of Sunshine Stars FC, Kamal Folarin (Lama) has hinted that, the success would further spur the club for more silverwares in the forthcoming NPFL season. 

Recall that, long time academy graduate, Adedipe Kehinde blasted the 'Owena Waves' in front in the sixty fifth (65) minute of the tension soaked duel and Harmony Boys couldn't restore the parity before the regulation time thereby making Sunshine Stars Gold Cup Champions second time in six years.

Kehinde Adesina of Sunshine Stars in action 

"The club regrouped three days before the start of the tourney, you know there were new technical appointments in the club.

" We honored the invitation in good faith to test couples of new arrivals and to see how they can cope in big games. I want to inform you that we didn't have much time to train as a unit having lost a lot of our top notch prolific players.

"Coach Kabiru Dogo used the tournament to instill his playing philosophy in players, our old players really sparkled when needed and they brought the needed balance going forward." Erstwhile Gray FC of Ede gaffer submitted. 

Despite being the champion of the latest edition of the tourney at the expense of  hegemonic Kwara United, Kabiru Dogo side however not completely exonorated from glitches accustomed to their executing personnels.

Players of Sunshine Stars are presented with Gold Cup trophy 

"I can say we are fifty percent ready for the coming season right now, we need some back up at the back and good clinical finishers up front.

"The gaffer has identified few good replacements on the course of the tournament and contacts would soon be established with the identified players.

"Though injury to our key players last season and non registration of the club's new recruits by League Management Company on time formed part of indices why Sunshine Stars had to battle relegation till last day.

"With the new technical officials on board, I believe confidence has started returning to the club. We will be aiming for a continental slot come next season." He stressed.

Coach Folarin who was recently promoted from Rising Stars coaching department to senior team as an assistant coach was a reliable outfield player for Rising Stars during his playing days in the elite division.

Omaka Anthony with the MVP award.

"Let me on behalf of the technical officials appreciate the management of Sunshine Stars for giving the club the necessary supports in participating in the recently concluded unarguably the best preseason tournament in the land. 

"This feat would be a learning curve for us as we continue to assemble best legs that will challenge for trophies in the coming days. The organisers again should be encouraged because they are doing a fantastic job in bringing teams together with little resources." He concluded. 

Gold Cup: Sunshine Stars emerge champion

Sunshine Stars were crowned champions of the 6th edition of Gold Cup Preseason Tourney after they beat Kwara United by a lone goal on Saturday at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.


It was a second Gold Cup trophy in the cabinet of the Owena Whales in six years.


Both teams failed to create any clear cut chance, as they played with caution with a view of holding on to ball possession.


The second half recorded a bit of action as Kwara attacking midfielder Sunday Emmanuel  who should have scored the opening goal, but the former Sunshine Stars player decided to shoot the ball straight to goalkeeper Emmanuel Ariyo.


In the 54th minute, Thomas Adesina should have scored but wasted the chance as he shot his effort wide.


Coach Abubakar Bala men surrendered to Sunshine Stars attacking display in the 62nd minute as Adedipe Kehinde header beat Kenneth Okoli in a goal-mouth scramble situation.


The Owena Whales went home with a cheque of Three Hundred Thousand Naira (#300, 000) and a giant trophy while the Harmony Boys got a sum of Two Hundred Thousand Naira (#200, 000).


However the duo of Anthony Omaka  (Sunshine Stars) and Segun Alebiosu  (Kwara United) were rewarded for their brilliance performance in the tourney.


Omaka went home with the Vomoz Mobile Most Valuable Player of the tournament award while Alebiosu got the top scorer's award respectively.


Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament is sponsored by distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, Dr. Buhari Abdul-Fatai (BAF), and proudly supported by Nigeria Football Federation Executive Committee Member, Alhaji Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, foremost betting company, Bet9ja, Nigeria leading sportswear firm, 'owu', Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sportspro, New-Bell Global Investment, 11th Media Global Concept, Phreestyle Sports, and Play Sportswear.

Gold Cup: Sunshine Stars set up Kwara Utd final tie

Sunshine Stars will battle Kwara United in the final of the 2018 edition of Gold Cup Preseason Tourney on Saturday in Akure.

Goalkeeper, Ayo Ojo stole the evening after he stopped two penalties as the Owena Waves beat Remo Stars 3-2 on penalties after they played 1-1 in regulation time in the semi final which was decided at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure on Thursday.

Midfielder Omaka Anthony gave the Kabiru Dogo side the lead in the 9th minute scoring a fabulous free kick from 25yards.

Remo Stars responded well after the goal, dominating with impressive counter play.

Their efforts were then rewarded eleven minutes later as Edoka Owochio scored from a goal mouth scramble in the 20th minute to equalize for his team.

The game was then forced to penalties after the game ended 1-1.

Ayo Ojo proved why Dogo introduced him in added time as he saved the first and forth penalty kick taken by Remo Stars.

The Ondo State Sports Complex will host the final on Saturday November 24, 2018.

Danjuma praises Falode's NWFL for improved Pro-League

The Chief Coach of the Nigeria Women Premier League defending champions, Nasarawa Amazons of Lafia, Christopher Danjuma, has commended the leadership of the Nigeria Women Football League headed by Aisha Falode, for a wonderful organisation of the Women's Pro-League Play-Off especially at the Abuja centre hosting matches at the FIFA Goal Project, Package B of the Abuja National Stadium.
Danjuma, who is also the chief coach of the national Under-20 Women's team, the Super Falconets, was full of plaudits for the Aisha Falode-board not only for the excellent organisation at the Abuja centre coordinated by the NWFL vice chairman, Hon. Margaret Icheen, supported by Hajia Hussaina Suleiman and the NWFL Chief Operating Officer, Ayo Abdulrahman, but also for the impressive standard of play by all the teams in the centre.


The Amazons' coach noted that, the teams in Abuja are equally matched and the competition for promotion to the Premier League has been very tough.


"I have been able to pick some good players here for next season's campaign for my club Nasarawa Amazons. I am sure these players can help my club to achieve set goals in the Premier League next year.


"Also as a national team coach, I have been able to pick some good players who can fit in perfectly into the national Under-17 team, the Flamengoes and the Under-20, Falconets. These players are no push overs in anyway as I monitored them closely in two different games each here at the Abuja centre.


"We are grateful to Madam Aisha Falode and her wonderful board for giving us this option to watch and select these young enterprising players who will be relevant in Nigerian women's football for years to come," Christopher Danjuma said.


Source NWFL MEDIA.

Dare Olatunji 'Osun Pogba' joins Enyimba

Seyi Joshua

Enyimba International have completed the signing of Osun United priceless asset, Dare Olatunji for an undisclosed fee, reports Coded Sports.

The valuable and enterprising midfielder who will be 21 on November 24th has signed the dotted line for Aba based club with the duration of three (3) years to become the latest addition to the People's Elephant.

The versatile midfielder who was captured from Police Machine two seasons ago by the workaholic and resourceful ex-international Duke Udi has improved a lot to become a force to reckon with without any sign of slackness in sight.

Several Top NPFL clubs have been jostling for the services of Dare Olatunji in the past but Enyimba FC are so fortunate with clear headway.

On what motivated him to choose Enyimba ahead of other suitors the young and experienced midfielder has this to say; "I feel calm and happy. 

"It is a positive move for me definitely, I am  used to coping and to adjust in the best possible way, for massive gestures people are showing me here, it's a positive way of starting.

“ Now I feel comfortable and looking forward to the future, which for sure will be very nice because am here to contribute my quota and win silverware with this modest club." 'Osun Pogba' as he's fondly called stated.

Osun United through their media chief announced the departure of their productive player yesterday, the club therefore wish him more successful endeavours in his career. 

An optimistic defensive midfielder, who harps on hard work and prayer hailed series of coaches that have modelled his growing and brilliant career.

" A lot of coaches have worked on me but l specially appreciate Duke Udi for giving me the platform to showcase the stuff I've made of, oftentimes he do fight me but little did I know that it's to my benefit, I will forever be grateful to him." he informed Coded Sports.

Olatunji became latest signings after Chukwuka Onuwa, Stanley Okorom and few others were reportedly snapped up by Aba Landlord

Ayeni confident of Gold Cup success despite defeat

Cynosure FC Head Coach, Deji Ayeni says losing their first match at the ongoing Gold Cup tournament is not a big deal as it afforded them opportunity to restrategise for their semi-final game against Kwara United today Wednesday November 21, 2018 at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.


A 65th minute strike by Adedipe Kehinde was all Sunshine Stars needed to top Group B table and condemn the Abakaliki-based side to its first defeat after going three games unbeaten in the tourney.


Ayeni told Gold Cup Media; “The loss is a positive one for me because in football, you either win, lose or you draw. So as a good technocrat, you should expect that.


"Its not a loss because I foresaw what was going to happen. I’m a kind of person that doesn’t complain about officiating. Be it as it may, we gave them a good fight.


“There is no team that is not beatable. The most important thing for the teams is to work on their tactics and how disciplined are you.


"You can bear me witness today, if not the loss of concentration, there is no way we would have lost the match because I work on my tactics and made sure that everybody worked according to it.


Ayeni further said he was proud of his boys’ performance, adding his players can walk into any team in the NPFL without having trials.


“Honestly speaking, if the boys find themselves in any team, they will deliver because they have what it takes. But one thing I understand about Nigerians is that we don’t always appreciate the younger ones.


"We should give them the opportunity to exhibit what they have so that you will have a balanced team.


"Look at our national teams, when the players are aging we should replace them with younger ones so that the team will be solid and ready to compete again. But when the bulk of team are old players, you find it difficult for the whole cohesiveness of the game.”

I'm penalty specialist, says Cynosure's Imiete

Cynosure FC of Eboyi goalkeeper, Believe Imiete says stopping penalties is his speciality.

Imiete who kept two clean sheets in the victories against Lobi Stars and Mountain of Fire and Miracles (MFM FC of Lagos) at the ongoing Gold Cup Tourney in Akure, denied Lobi Stars Samad Kadiri a goal from the spot kick last Friday.

"Its good feelings for me to have kept a clean sheet and saved a penalty against a CAF Champions League side, Lobi Stars of Makurdi.

"In fact, I'm a specialist at saving penalties. The feat is no fluke but down to hard work in training and been focused in matches.

"I don't do guess work once I'm faced with a task of saving a penalty.

"In many penalties I have saved, I chose the spot I want to go and at the end, I just see myself making a save.

"Keeping clean sheets, I cherish that as a goalkeeper as this statistic is what determines our market.

"I hope one day I'll be living my dream as a top class goalkeeper in Europe but I fancy starting the journey with an A-list club in the Nigeria Professional Football League.

"My plans for the season is helping my team gain promotion  from the Nigeria National League to the top flight by recording more clean sheets, so I can compete with the big teams  in Nigeria.

Cynosure FC no fluke, says Coach Ayeni

Cynosure Football Club Head Coach, Ayeni Ayodeji Alexander says his team's success in the Gold Cup Tourney in Akure is no fluke.

Cynosure became the first book a semi-final spot after going three games unbeaten in it group.

"Victories recorded here in the Gold Cup Tourney in Akure is no fluke as our play tactics is unique. We play as a unit, attacking and defending together.

"We're also a disciplined side.
We don't like to give away ball possession easily and our defending have been fantastic as we have kept three clean sheets and scored five goals.

"This match stat is good for my team's psyche as it will boost their confidence level.

"Mental fitness is really a problem for many players in domestics leagues as they easily give when the challenge is tough.

"This was the most important thing I did after I took the Cynosure job, as I changed the orientation of my players.
Today is of good benefit to us all. 

"Going further in the tourney; mean tough challenge awaits my team, my players are mentally ready for the hurdle."

The Abakaliki based side who have 9points will on Tuesday host Sunshine Stars, who has 7points in a last game that will determine who goes to top of the group.

GOLD CUP: Kwara Utd, Cynosure FC zoom to semi final

Kwara United and Cynosure FC have qualified to the semi-final of the Gold Cup Preseason Tournament holding in Akure after they both won their third games respectively.


The Harmony Boys edged past Remo Stars 2-1 in a thriller that saw both Segun Alebiosu and Ekene Awazie scoring to remain joint top scorers of the Nigeria's First Pre-Season mini league with three goals each.


Kwara United scored their two goals in quick succession in the first half, as it took them eight minutes to break the Sky Blue Stars defence.


A long range shot by Peter Momoh from 30 mitres left James Faith stunned in goal for Remo Stars.


In the 10th minute, Kwara United profited from a lose pass close to their box, and Segun Alebiosu made no mistake scoring his team's second goal with an easy tap in from an assist from Ebenezer Odeyemi.


Three minutes into the second half, Remo Stars were handed a lifeline as they were awarded a penalty for a tackle on Awazie by a Kwara defender in the box.


Awazie then converted from the spot to reduce the goal deficit for the Sky Blue Stars.


In the other group game, Nationwide League One side Cynosure FC, defeated FC Ebedei 2-0 to be the only team to get to the last four without conceeding a goal.


It took the Abakaliki side six minutes to do the damage on Ebedei after Solomon Chigozie turn Eliza Amie's low cross to the bottom corner in the second minute in what looked like the fastest goal in this year's edition.


Cynosure doubled their lead in the 6th after Ogar David scored a screamer from another Amie's assist.


Both teams now lead the two groups table logs with 9 points each.

Cynosure Fc Maintain 100% Gold Cup Unbeaten Run

By Mayuku Charles


Two goals within the first ten minutes of the encounter ensured Cynosure Fc registered another victory at the Ondo State Sports Complex Akure in 2-0 win over Fc Ebedei keeping their unbeaten run in the tournament intact.

Cynosure Fc scored as early as the 2nd minute through skillful attacking midfielder Solomon Chigozie who finished up an intelligent assist from enterprising Elijah Amie.

Elijah Amie again proved to be the shinning star on the day where he provided another assist this time in the 6th minute to hardworking Ogar David whose long range screamer will enter as one of the goals of the tournament.

Cynosure Fc continue to maintain 100% win run with 9 points from 3 matches played.

Head Coach of the Centre of Attraction side Ayodele Alexander Ayeni was, however, delighted with his side’s character in maintaining 100% unbeaten run.

“It was very important for us to win because Fc Ebedei is one of the teams with the underdog tag in this tournament" he told Cynosure Fc Media.”

"They are a young and ambitious side so we knew it was not going to be an easy match".

“It was very essential, especially when we went two goals up very early in the game and did not become complacent. This has shown the personality of the team to go for the game.

“I’m very happy with our response and we will continue to take one game at a time".

FULL TIME
Cynosure Fc 2-0 Fc Ebedei
(Solomon Chigozie 2' & Ogar David 6')
Elijah Amie with both assist.

Gold Cup: Remo Stars drain Rivers Utd 2-1

Rivers Utd were handed the blues on Saturday as Remo Stars came from behind to beat them 2-1 on  MatchDay3 of 2018 Gold Cup Tourney courtsey of a second half brace by Ekene Awazie.


It was a game of two halves with Rivers Utd dominating the 1st while Awazie was the torn in the flesh on the Garden City team in the second.


It took thirty-eight minute for Stanley Eguma led Rivers Utd to score their first goal of the tourney as Rasaq Adebayo blasted his side forward with a cool finish after outclassing Remo defenders.


Remo Stars had goalkeeper, Olisa Nwoye to thank as Rivers Utd should have made it 2-0 in the opening six minutes of the second half.


As the game got close to its one hour mark, Ekene Awazie leveled the scoreline for Remo Stars profiting from a sloppy defending by Rivers Utd.


With seven minutes to end the game, Awazie then capped his  evening scoring a brace and winning goal for the Sky Blue Stars as he put the ball past Biodun Akande.


Awazie is now joint top scorer in the Gold Cup Tourney with Kwara Utd Segun Alebiosu.

Lobi Stars will be hungrier against Sunshine Stars - Ogbiede

After Cynosure FC gave his side a lot to think about, in the ongoing  Gold Cup Tourney on Matchday two, Solomon Ogbiede says his players are hungry to beat Sunshine Stars.


The battle of Stars is among the high profile games billed for Saturday at the Akure Stadium.


"There's nothing to complain about or me handing any player the blame for the loss.


"I liked what I saw and liked the team we played against as they gave us a good contest.


"I started a different team entirely against Cynosure as I wanted to give all my players needed playing time.


"Our style of play was good but a loss of concentration in the box by my defenders in that split seconds cost us."


"The tie against Sunshine Stars is the usual league game, one that will be tough, as I will be playing against a team I know well and fans that once adored me in Akure.


"Not taking anything away from Sunshine Stars, my players will be hungry to return to winning was."


Saviour Francis of Cynosure FC
scored the only goal that turned out to be the match winner in the 55th minute.

NNL: COACH MOGA QUIT HIS ROLE IN AKLOSENDI

Impressive Coach Stephen Moga of Aklosendi Int'l FC Lafia has resigned from his role as the Chief Coach Coach of Aklosendi Int'l FC Lafia who plies in the Bet9ja Nigeria National League (NNL) .

This development came  Friday 9th November, 2018, after the club's management meeting in the club's secretariat Lafia.

Stephen Moga is the pioneer coach of the club  from it inception in 2016 after his playing career with Nasarawa United. 

In his first season as  a coach in Aklosendi , he coached the club to qualify to the division two of   Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO), from the division three.

   The highlight of his career ,  was the promotion of Aklosendi Int'l FC Lafia to the second tier of Nigeria club football  as well as playing in the Nasarawa state  FA  cup final in 2017.

    Talking to the media team , "it's a tough decision to take,  as it was the club that gave me the first step into his coaching career.  He went on to express his appreciation to the club and  pleaded with the team and the fans to take his resignation in good faith as it part of life to always move on" .
  

   The club chairman accepted the resignation and wished coach Stephen Moga the best in his  next job

Gold Cup: Pillars begin title defence against Phoenix ASC

Kano Pillars, A list status in the domestic league will be put to test as they begin their Gold Cup Tourney title defence against 'giant-killers' Phoenix ASC when the pre-season event kicks off on November 15th in Ado Ekiti.


This is a second Group A tie billed for the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium with a kickoff time of 4pm.


In the first game of the Group, Kwara United and Rivers United who faced each other three times last season in the league and Group phase of the Aiteo Cup in Lagos will lock horns by 10. am Remo Stars who hope put their Ilorin poor form behind them are drawn bye.


The Sky Blue Stars will aim for their first three point in the 10 days football fiesta when they host new boys, Phoenix ASC on Friday, 16th November.


Meanwhile, the opening fixtures of Group B will see CAF Champions League side and 2016 Gold Cup Champions, Lobi Stars open its campaign against FC Ebedei.


Coach Kabir Dogo who will be making his debut in the Gold Cup Tourney, will be leading his new look Sunshine Stars against debutant Cynosure FC of Abakaliki. Both matches will be played on Thursday 15th, November.


Fidelis Ilechukwu and his Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries FC lads will be resting ahead their first game against FC Ebedei on Friday, 16th November.

The top two teams from  two Groups in the mini-league will qualify automatically for the semis.


Leader of Group A and B will host runner-up of Group B and A respectively on 21st and 22nd of November by 4pm local time.


Winners from the two semi-final games will then lock horns for the ultimate prize in the epic final at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium on November 24th.

The Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament sponsored by distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic, Dr. Buhari Abdul-Fatai (BAF), and proudly supported by Nigeria Football Federation Executive Committee Member, Alhaji  Ahmed Yusuf Fresh, foremost betting company, Bet9ja, Nigeria leading sportswear firm, 'Owu', Play Sportswear, Ekiti State Football Association, Naija League Magazine, Seyi Akinwunmi Foundation, Phoenix ASC, Sportspro, New-Bell Global Investment, 11th Media Global Concept, Phreestyle Sports and Vomoz Mobile.

Why Ogunbote must continue with Rangers - Owumi

Enugu state government in conjunction with Rangers Management Corporation, owners of Rangers International F.C, have extended the contract of Aiteo cup winning coach, Olugbenga Ogunbote as the team turns its attention to winning the CAF Confederation cup next season.


G.M/CEO of the ‘Flying Antelopes’, Prince Davidson Owumi, made this revelation, Tuesday in Enugu.


The former NPL boss stated that after going through the reports of the coaching crew coupled with the success recorded in the oldest club competition in the country that saw the team winning the NFF/Aiteo Federation cup for the sixth time and the need for continuity, the government and management decided to extend the contract of coach Ogunbote.



“Coach Olugbenga Ogunbote has been given an extension to his contract at the club, Rangers International F.C. The government after due consultations with the management of the team came to a conclusion to have the coach retained for continuity and an enhanced performance. Our focus is the CAF Confederations cup and other domestic trophies that are available,” stated the target driven astute club administrator.

Jubilations as NairaBet boss set to build world class ultra-modern sports complex.

Seyi Joshua 

Nigeria’s first online betting company boss, Oloye Akin Alabi, is set to build an ultra-modern sports complex at Urban Day Grammar School, Old Ife Road Ibadan.

The project which will benefit sports men and women living around Alakia, Old Ife Road, Gbagi and other parts of Egbeda local government area of Oyo State is described as good riddance to dilapidated sports infrastructures.

The  author of fast selling 'Small Business Big Money' wrote on his twitter handle @akinalabi that, “I have just concluded plans to build an ultra modern sports complex at Urban Day Grammar School, Old Ife Road Ibadan. 

"Urban Day is the home of grassroots football in that axis and having a world class center will bring back the lost glory and unearth young talents. I’m enthused".

The founder of Akin Alabi Foundation further commented. “What we did then is child’s play compared to what we want to do now. 

"I’m not happy about what we did so we are starting all over again. For those of us that had our teenage years in the 90’s, Urban Day represents grassroots football in that entire axis. Urban day is a fantastic location.”

Meanwhile, lovers of grassroots football have started pouring encomiums on Oloye Alabi for this giant philanthropic gestures, claiming that the old time is in sight in unearthing talents abounding in the area. 

Further checks revealed that Alabi, who is the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Egbeda-Ona Ara federal constituency in the forthcoming 2019 election has done a lot in the past, in giving back to society.