Who deserves to win CAF 'Youth Player' of the year ?

Three names have been shortlisted to battle for African Youth Player of the year. Two Nigerians and one Morrocan.

The award holder Achraf Hakimi is leading the other two contenders namely, Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze. The contestants have been having a run of their lives in their various clubs. 

Victor Osimhen put a goal past Monaco in French League One at the weekend to take his total league goal to ten. This will be the first time a Nigerian player would record a double figure in French League One in a debut season. 

The Super Eagles lanky forward is a member of the Bronze winning AFCON Eagles. He's been on a terrific form having won French League Player of the Month for the month of September at the expense of the likes of Islam Slimani and Nicolas Pallois. 

Nigerians have dominated this category in the past. In 2014, it was  Asisat Oshoala then with Rivers Utd that won it.  Victor Osimhen won it in the following year while Arsenal youngster Alex Iwobi scooped the 2016 edition. 

Worthy to mention among the contenders is Samuel Chukwueze, the Villarreal winger has been capped by Nigeria 10 times. The 20 years old pacy forward is a promising talent for the Eagles having scored a goal in his debut AFCON outing. He has 7 goals to his credit in about 34 senior appearance at club level. The New Generation Academy trainee would be looking for his first CAF plaque. 

Achraf Hakimi the award current holder has played twenty six games for his club in this year scoring 8 goals along the line. The Borussia Dortmund right-back is one of the most sought after in Europe. Achraf detroned Patson Daka in 2018 to become the current category award holder.

Gov. Oyetola set to replace partially grassed Osogbo stadium pitch with astro turf

Akanni Seyi

To those familiar with Osogbo Township Stadium located along Ikirun road within the metropolis, it's quite obvious that its infrastructure and facilities are still yet to be completed and are in a state of despair.

According to the stadium's master plan, the fifteen thousand capacity complex supposed to have gallery with seats, a luscious football pitch, athletic track, floodlights, perimeter fence, dressing rooms with convenience spots, mini studio, basketball courts, volleyball courts, hall for indoor activities, administrative buildings, handball courts, lawn tennis courts, training pitches, electronic scoreboard and vast expanse of spaces for automobile parks. 

Major actors and fans have expressed their dissatisfaction about the state of the arena which shows no clear sign of maintenance.

Recall that the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola started the project after cancelling a mouth-watering deal initiated and adopted by the administration of Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola. 

The whopping sum of 18.38 billion naira loan was secured by the Okuku born prince, the facility which was aimed at erecting sports complex in Osogbo, Ede, Ilesa, Ife and Ikirun. Aregbesola cancelled the contracts,  leaving only the Osogbo Stadium.

The stadium project was technically abandoned as the harsh economy took toll on the state. The contractor handling the project has since returned to his native country in far away Northern Africa. The moribund state of the facility has accounted for mass exodus of Osun athletes to sister states because of lack of conducive training facilities.

According to the state governor Mr Gboyega Oyetola while delivering his keynote address during the recently concluded Presidential Cup, packaged by African Youth Sports Federation (AYSOF) and hosted by the ministry of sports and youth engagements, Mr governor noted that, "for us in Osun, sport is not only a medal-winning and recreational activity, it is principally an instrument for impacting leadership skills in the youths to enable them to perform their roles as leaders of tomorrow.

"As we harvest the outcomes of our just concluded Economic and Investment Summit, we shall give priority attention to sport as always to build an army of award-winning and responsible youths who will flag the State’s and Nigeria’s flag internationally.

"In furtherance of our commitment to sport, we will soon complete the construction of the Sports stadium to provide a platform for our youths to give expression to their talents and enhance their award-winning prowess." lleri Oluwa as he's fondly called concluded.

Seventeen days after the above statements were made, sources revealed that Mr governor has directed the energetic honorable commissioner for sports and youth engagements, Hon. Yemi Lawal to commence listening to bids in order to fast track the process of the football pitch and other facilities wearing a new look. 

This is no doubt a welcome development as the complex is becoming aliens to hosting tournaments organized by the apex football body in the land. 

Osun athletes are skilled and extremely  super talented. For instance, Taekwondo alone as a sport in the state has accounted for over 64 medals since 2013 till date. If construction of sporting facilities are on the front burner, coupled with effective grassroots programs, then the state would reap from massive social and economic dividends soonest. 

NPFL: Enyimba put Rivers Utd to sword in Aba

Enyimba Football Club have moved within one point of the top of the Nigeria Professional Football League after sealing a 1-0 win over Rivers United in a drab fixture at the Enyimba Stadium this evening.

Victor Mbaoma fired in the only goal with a 24th minute freekick to lift the eight times champions above their neighbours.

Centreback Austin Opara was handed his Enyimba debut and youngster Orok Gabriel made his first league start as Usman Abd'Allah made seven changes to the team that started against San Pedro in the CAF Confederation Cup four days earlier.

Despite playing together for the first time, Orok and Mbaoma formed a sleek partnership to light up the opening stages, with the latter benefitting from the former's tailored pass for the game's first chance, pulling a save from Ospino Egbe.

Mbaoma came close again with a smart effort on the turn, but watched it go slightly over the top.

The goal eventually arrived midway through the half when Mbaoma's well hit freekick from the edge of the box was pushed into the top corner by Egbe.

Mbaoma continued to impress his character on the fixture, trying a similar effort from thirty-five yards, but Egbe stood strong to parry out.

The visitors, largely buoyed by the introductions of Nelson Essor and Fortune Omoniwari, gave a better fight in the second half, but hardly threatened with goalmouth moments.

The half's biggest highlight, meanwhile, came on the hour when Mbaoma's freekick left Stanley Dimgba unchallenged, but the winger fired wide from close range.

Anayo Iwuala came on for the Dimgba while Samson Obi replaced the impressive Orok as Enyimba held strong for their fourth win in the league.

Now one point behind leaders Plateau United, Enyimba will hope for the return of some of their regulars for Sunday's trip to Dakkada FC.

NNL: Daniel Ogunmodede thrilled with maximum points

Head Coach of Remo Stars Football Club (RSFC), Daniel Ogunmodede has expressed his happiness when his ward fought hard to defeat Enugu based, Lamray United FC in match day one of the 2019/20 Nigeria National League (NNL) season.

The Sky Blue Stars got their vital goal through captain of the day, Nduka Junior in the 58th minute after connecting well to a delighted cross from Ismail Sodiq to give his side the needed points.

Speaking with RSFC Press, Daniel Ogunmodede who knelt down immediately after the final whistle said he is quite impressed with his ward because the fought right for the start of the game to the end.

"I feel delighted with boys, they fought well from the start of the whistle to the end, I am impressed because they translated most things they learnt from our training sessions into the game, although not all was perfected but they are close."

"Like I said in pre-match, they are sets of young lads who have never played at that level before aside from Bankole Kayode and Fawas Otun and you saw a flash of it in their game today."

"The opponent came with a negative game plan which went in their favour in the first 45 minutes. My Joy for the boys is that they never gave up on themselves all through the game."

"The first match of the season is always very tough, most especially when over ninety percent (90%) of your team are first timers."

"The boys showed they weren't ready to let the opportunity given to them to go in vain, which they justified with their tactical perseverance today."

"The journey has just started, a win is in the kitten for us but we feel we still have to complete some other activities before traveling for our next game away from home, we have to instill more strength into the young lads because our away game must be played with a hundred percent (100%) strength and commitment."

"I am proud of Nduka Junior, he showed he is ready to show the world the kind of player he is gradually becoming, he is a born leader and you could see it in his display today, he showed the reason he was promoted and I am proud of that particular moment."

"I give credit to the other players too, everybody played well and they have given me an assurance with this game that they will go places."

Lastly, I must appreciate our supporters for their continuous support, most especially while we were trying to get a goal. We got couple of chances but didn't end at the back of the net, we will also work on it going forward." Daniel Ogunmodede

LMC hammer falls on Nasarawa Utd

Following disturbances at the end of MatchDay 4 fixture in Lafia, the League Management Company (LMC) has imposed sanctions on Nasarawa United, one of its players and two backroom staff.



The club will now play all its home matches behind closed door indefinitely with some financial penalties while the player, Paul Seun Komolafe will serve a one year ban, the Curator, Aliyu Mohammed Hamzat is to serve a life ban from all Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) match venues and activities and the Media Officer, Eche Moses has been fined and cautioned. All sanctions are to commence immediately.



Komolafe is to serve a one year ban starting immediately for accosting and assaulting the match officials and for inciting the club supporters to commit violence against match officials in the match against Plateau United in breach of Rule C11 and C1.3.



Hamzat, the club’s Curator has been banned for life from participating in all Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) match venues and activities for leading the attack on the Referee and other match officials in violation of Rule C11 of the Framework and Rules of the NPFL.



Moses was cited for breach of Rule C1 for releasing or causing to be released, a written press statement unfairly criticizing match officials, a conduct deemed capable of bringing the League to disrepute. He is to pay a fine of One Hundred Thousand Naira (N100,000) with a warning to desist from such conduct.



Nasarawa United were charged for breaches of Rule B13.18, B13.52.1, B13.52.2 and C1 for which the club was fined a cumulative fine of Four Million, Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (N4, 250, 000) including a N1,250,000 compensation for the Match Officials.



Under Rule B1.18, the club was charged for the action of its supporters who threw objects including stones towards match officials. This attracted a fine of One Million Naira (N1,000,000) while another fine of One Million Naira (N1,000,000) was also imposed on the club for failure to ensure adequate crowd control and prevention of access by unauthorized persons to restricted area which led to the attack on Match officials as they headed to the dressing room; considered a breach of Rule B13.52.1 and B13.52.2



Nasarawa United was also charged for breach of Rule C1, punishable by virtue of Rule B15.17 for conducts capable of bringing the game to disrepute through the action of some of its supporters, a player and an officer of the club in assaulting match officials and causing disturbances. This also attracted a fine of One Million Naira (N1,000,000) and another One Million, Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira (N1,250,000) to be paid as compensation to the match officials pursuant to Rule C12 and in addition, be responsible for the costs of all verified medical expenses of the assaulted match officials. Nasarawa Utd has 10 working days to pay the imposed fines otherwise further disciplinary actions will be imposed.

The LMC further issued an order of closure of gates to fans for all Nasarawa United home matches for an indefinite period but which can only be considered for review upon Nasarawa Utd Complying with set out criteria to improve security in venue and proper fan engagement. Such  review may be done under three conditions to be met by the club and which includes organizing an orientation program for its supporters to be supervised by the LMC and Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), providing barricades that will restrict access by unauthorized persons from the stands to the dressing rooms of players and match officialsand to liaise with relevant security agencies for the purpose of identifying and prosecuting perpetrators of the acts of violence and disturbances.

The club, its player and backroom staff are allowed 48 hours to respond in writing, either accepting the decisions or electing to be tried by the NFF Disciplinary Committee

A 10 minutes chat with10-10, Bright Omokaro (MON)

Ex International, Bright Omokaro who is now the head coach of Osun United puts some records straight as regards his career as a footballer and now a CAF license holder.

It's a revealing moments, in this chat with Osun based Sports Writer Akanni Seyi, 10-10, as he's fondly called bares his mind on some topical issues, as he even reminisce the sweet memories of late chief Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi, the immediate past Osun FA chairman whose one year remembrance is just 82 days away. 

Sit back and enjoy, as brought to you by Coded Sports. 

C.S. Can we meet you sir ?

10-10. I am Bright Omokaro, ex international, presently am into football coaching, the coaching job has taken me to some clubs like Gray FC and 3SC amongst others. Presently, I am the head coach of Osun Utd, campaigning in the Nigeria National League NNL. 

C. S.  Going into new season with late preparations, any hope for our dear team? 

10-10. Yes, we started less than 3 weeks ago, it's not a bad one, players are responding to trainings, to me this is a time I need to talk psychology into the players. If we have to go by the duration required to infuse some technicalities, we never have that time. The environment is cordial with supporters, they are my brothers, since I came  back, they have been doing their best for the team. Am appealing to the management to please take the welfare of our players very serious.

C. S. Some quarters believe that going by the numbers of players in camp now, there would be selection headaches for the technical crew. How true is this sir? 

10-10. No, no I won't battle any form of selection headache because only registered players are the materials to use. Some players came late and it is impossible for us to register them apart from thirty five players that we are awaiting their clearance from Abuja. 

We shall concentrate on the registered ones for now. As far as am concerned, my program shall take care of the registered players. I know you are talking about crowd, but that has nothing to do in as much as l am focussed.

C. S. Now, what should the sports lovers in the state of Osun expect from the team ? 

10-10. From the onset, we must make a mark by the special grace of God. What we want from them is that they should support us in full because when you send a child to school without any support, the child won't perform, but when he knows that someone is there for him,  he would perform.

C. S. Since your arrival in the state, how will you rate the management of the club ? 

10-10. They are not doing badly, for me the late registration has a clause because some necessary equipments are not there, looking for money for the slot and other things have not been easy, so they have done well with the little resources within their reach. 

C. S. Your first home game is against Ekiti Utd. How much of your opponent do you know? 

10-10. To me I don't really need to know anything about Ekiti, this is how I coach and everywhere I coached I have made a mark. My own is to groom my own team to supersede whoever we are playing against. 

C. S. Back in the days when you are playing active football, can you compare and contrast now and tell me what has really changed ?

10-10. To me what has really changed is commitment because, the set of players you see today are not committed. Most of them didn't know the basis of football. I passed through the cadre, I played for Bendel Salvation Army Primary School, New Era College  Benin, 1st ever academy, 1st ever Junior National Team,  then I played for National Team. 

Then, you don't go to screening, even no manager to move you around, scouts see you where you play and absorb you into the existing systems. Grassroot footballs are crippled, as such no place to teach basics again. We should go back to grassroots for us to start grooming players for higher and future engagements.

European football has dominated everywhere now. People even fight themselves here, because of European football, you can imagine! It is not their fault, they have to look elsewhere because they didn't get the best here. In a situation where a player chests the ball and the umpire picks a foul against him, that's crazy, when a ball is coming tomorrow, will that player want to chest again? It's all entity, everyone needs to come together in order to redeem football, that's just the way forward.

C. S. Can you share with us the beautiful moment you cherished most in your career? 

10-10. Smiles. I have a lot of sweet memories while playing. In Maroc 88, when Ademola Adesina was given a red card, we were leading Tunisia by a goal, Adesina's dismissal was a slap in our face. As the Lord would have it, l went somehow hard on their chief tormentor and the guy was taken out. The match was extended to penalty shootout and we finally won the game. Late Okonkwo told me in Dodan Barrack that well done Bright, you made it 10-10. Since then, I was rechristened 10-10 in football industry.

C. S. In the course of this assignment, how would you react to criticisms.

10-10. My brother, our job is exposed to hazards. Exposed in the sense that anybody can say anything. Even if anyone criticizes me, he's indirectly telling me to work on my lapses. I will always welcome constructive criticisms.

C. S. Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi is no more, how would you react to his exploits while alive?

10-10. I respect his managerial acumen, he will be missed, such a brilliant and listening administrator is very scarce. Ogunjobi has done well for the country. May his soul continue to rest in peace. 

C. S. Thank you for your time. Best wishes.

10-10. You are welcome. 

Develop winning mentality, Ajiroba tasks Osun Utd

Akanni Seyi

As the Nigeria National League 2019/2020 season takes center stage this weekend, the state of Osun Football Association Chairman Chief Rasaq Ishola Mustapha RIM, has called on the sole representative of the state in the National League to be alerted and filled with winning and excellent mentality.

The battle of United definitely on the horizon this weekend as Osun United will play host to Ekiti United in one of the week one dicey fixtures. 

The two sides have rejigged their armoury towards the new season with Omoluabi Giants aiming to take all the available points at the mainbowl of Osogbo Township Stadium.

It would be a rousy home coming for Coach Deji Ayeni who last tutored ambitious Cynosure FC. Ekiti Utd has since been fortified with gleeful personnel ranging from goalkeeping department, new defensive set up and a renewed midfield planners not to leave out fine poachers.

Bright Omokaro who in turn is ready for his first assignment with the state team had one time worked in the state, twice promoting Gray FC  into the Pro-league. The squad have been beefed up with unheralded names coupled with few tested retained ones. Notable amongst the returnees are Olusola Akilapa, Damola Fakayode and Mojeed Yusuf among others.

It is on record how instrumental is the state of Osun Football Association in returning Osun United to the National League. To this end, the football association boss in the state, Chief Rasaq Ishola Mustapha has charged the state owned team to remain calm and maintain high level of concentration in the course of the campaign. 

"This is our own project and it's our duty to support it staunchly. I call on every one to throng the stadium complex and cheer our own giant into victory. No doubt, the team will enjoy maximum backing of the football association in their quest to stamp their authority and excel."

Ajiroba who was decorated yesterday with a commemorative medal by a board member, Engr. Kehinde Aina on the occasion of Prof. Olu Aina at 80 tourney, therefore called on government to motivate the team for optimum delivery.

"We need to look for a way to motivate the team, the present commissioner for sports and youth engagement is a young man who knows what it takes to brand a winning team. I charge the government to support this team with needed fund. I equally charge the players to put the state first and never relent in their quest for supremacy and promotion." Ajiroba of the source concluded.

Am here for serious business - Afolabi

Seyi Akanni


The newly appointed head coach of the Abakaliki based Nationwide League One (NLO) outfit Cynosure FC, Shina Afolabi has reiterated his intention of exposing the club for further achievements and promotion into the higher division.



One time tactician of Osogbo based NNL side Prime FC is an household name, considering his exploits in the National Challenge Cup where he piloted Prime FC  to play in the semi finals of the competition in 2014 and narrowly missed the promotion to Nigeria Professional Football League in the following year.


In his chat with codedsports.com, Coach Shina Afolabi who tutored Ajiroba FC last season made his intentions known thus;



"I thank God for making this day a reality, Cynosure FC is an ambitious club and am glad to be part of this set up.


"I am highly indebted to the chairman, staffs, and highly supporting fans of this club for finding me worthy for this role.


"It's going to be a very serious adventure here, I will need cooperation of everyone to succeed and to promote this club. Club hierarchy have informed me of the yearnings and aspirations of this club, with God on our side, we are going to hit the ground running and the fans will smile." He expressed.



Afolabi had earlier been contacted by a Nigerian Premier side, Espoir FC based in Zinder with the aim of securing his signature as Technical Adviser but the board couldn't meet his demands.



"Signing the dotted line here is an act of God, I was to sign with Espoir FC in Niger Republic but the deal wasn't materialized. I want to assure everyone here that I won't disappoint the club faithfuls.


"There's a legacy and pathway that we will continue to build on with due diligence. I therefore thank the club chairman once again for his vision and quality leadership.



"I want to thank my former employer and father, Chief Rasaq Mustapha, Ajiroba of the source, for his fatherly role and supports all this while. I equally appreciate everyone that have contributed to my career, one way or the other. With your supports once again, I know we will succeed" He concluded.



Deji Ayeni left his position as head coach at Cynosure FC with mutual consent after securing Ekiti Utd plum job. Afolabi who signed a two years contract is expected to work with the existing assistant and the backroom staffs.

NPFL: Sunshine Stars, Warri Wolves share spoils in Akure

Sunshine Stars and Warri Wolves ended their first clash in the top-flight since 2016 in an engaging 1-1 draw in Akure.

It was a match that had the home side fighting back for a share of the spoils.


Both goals came in the first half. Very much against the run of play, Upele Charles rose highest to head Warri Wolves into the lead from a corner kick by former Sunshine man, Egbeta Michael.


Sunshine took only six minutes to gain parity. Israel Abia, who had missed a hat trick of good chances prior, finally found the composure to slot in low to the keeper’s right after creating some space for himself on the edge of the Wolves box in the 36th minute of play.


It was at that point, the least Sunshine Stars deserved. Abia had been presented the first clear chance of the match on the 6th minute but fired way over the bar. It was his third wayward shot that drew loud groans from the home crowd as frustration grew.


The mood was made worse by Upele’s goal. It turned out to be Warri’s only shot on target all afternoon, from what was the first of just two corner kicks they won.


Their second half play was even more conservative than the first as they closed much of the space afforded Sunshine in the first half.


As the match wore on, there were half chances for the hardworking Abia, captain Sunday Abe and Omaka Anthony but all were easily grabbed by Warri keeper, Ocheayi Richard.


And the away side could even have won it, much against the flow of the game, if Okoyoh Michael had found target from a rare attack in the closing stages.

NPFL

Dangote to refurbish MKO Abiola Stadium-SD

Africa’s richest man and Nigeria’s billionaire businessmen, Aliko Dangote, will renovate the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abuja.


Hon. Sunday Dare, Minister of Youth and Sports Development disclosed this while addressing sports journalists on Thursday.

According to him, the renovation of the stadium will start in the next two weeks.

“Yes, Abuja is coming back up,” he said.

“Already we have gotten Dangote, I can say that he has agreed to bring back the Abuja football pitch, the light and score board.

“Work will start in another one week or two weeks.

“And we will use the same model, we will adopt the pitch model for several of our stadia. Atleast, the three other big ones.

“We are looking at between now and March we should have four big stadia, football pitches, FIFA standard.

“And I think if given time, within a year this country should be ready to host virtually any FIFA soccer tournaments.”

I won't mind stepping on toes to get results - Osun Sports Commissioner Yemi Lawal

Akanni Seyi



The new newly installed honorable commissioner for youth and sports in the state of Osun, Hon. Yemi Lawal has assured his unalloyed commitments in taking sports to next level in the state.



While reacting to various observations, requests and suggestions put forward by members of state of Osun Sports Writers Association, who gathered in his office on a courtesy call. The young and energetic ministry's boss assured that, he will run all inclusive programs.



"It is a collective responsibilities that sport is developed in the state. We should know that no single government can do it all.



"We are going to look at what is in existence and improve upon what's on ground. Governor wants our youths to be economically engaged."



Chairman of Sports Writers Association of Nigerian (SWAN) in the state, Yemi Aboderin had earlier pointed out some areas where the commissioner urgently need to look upon, all for the developments of sports in the state.



"We need to develop our teams. The dead and indolent sports will be revived.




"Physical and Health Education (PHE) has to return to our curriculum in secondary schools in order to encourage youth participations in sports.




"We are going to work with ministry of education to develop and nurture school talents into stardom. Sports must be moved from where it is to the next level. We are dropping those that will work against our mandate.




"We are going to do everything humanly possible to build and revive dilapidated infrastructures. Everyone has the responsibility to take ownership of government assets. More resources would be deployed to improve the facilities.




"SWAN would be engaged as a stakeholder to sensitize the masses about the direction of the government in sports developments, l therefore beg for your cooperation."




On the need for necessary action in repositioning the state teams, the commissioner assured that there's an ongoing reviewing of teams activities and possible way forward would be established.



"No one is happy with the state of things in Osun Utd. We are currently looking into the activities of state teams. We will try our best to ensure that Osun Utd return to NNL.




"We will look at what is wrong and focus on how to improve upon what is on ground.




"There's no way we will do the same things and expect different results. We are prepared to get results and introduce new things.




"We will study the situation and work on the sustainability of any sporting facilities. We are going to be pragmatic and work more on the field." He concluded.

U17 World Cup: Nigeria Face Netherlands In Round of 16 on Tuesday

Golden Eaglets of Nigeria will trade tackle with one of the best loosers that made it to second round, Netherlands on Tuesday.




Eaglets finished as Group B winners despite losing 2-1 to Australia. Netherlands qualified from Group D as one of the four best third-placed teams.




The Netherlands who need 4 goals in their last group match against USA surprisingly surged into knockout phase contention by soundly defeating USA 4-0 on Saturday night in their Group D finale at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Brazil 2019.





Holland qualified as one of the best losers. Netherlands lost to Japan 0-3 in their first group D match, were also defeated by African side, Senegal but won the USA 4-0 to sail through to Round of 16. The Oranje boys garnered 3 points from 3 games, conceded 6 and scored 5 goals and qualified to book a Round of 16 ticket against Nigeria.






Manu Garba must find a lasting solutions to his sloppy defence if he wants to play in the finals of the mundial. Recall that Eaglets had to come back twice to secure victory over Hungary and Ecuador thereby conceded six goals in 3 matches while scoring eight to lead in group B.

NPFL: MFM FC get first away victory as Uyo based teams share spoils on the road.

By Akanni Seyi


Nigeria Professional Football League returns with accustomed glamours after five months of non-league actions, there are actions  across eight centres with soccer fans hitting stadia once again.



Eight games were played today, twelve goals were recorded, one away win, 4 home wins and two draws as Enyimba and Rangers matches were postponed due to their CAF Confederation Cup engagements.



Delta State proved to be a fertile land for Akwa Ibom based teams as Mfom Udoh restored the parity for Akwa Utd after Samuel Amadi scored the fastest goal for his side, Warri Wolves. Akwa Starlets too return home after securing a point in Asaba.



At the New Jos Stadium, Plateau United ran riots scoring three goals against former champions.



Lobi Stars also scored a consolation goal through Sikiru Alimi. Silas Menrot and Solomon Kwambe own goal in the 12th and 28th minutes gave the hosts deserved lead,  Amos Gyang also registered his name on the score sheet as the game ended in 4 goals thriller.


The biggest surprise of match day one was posed by MFM FC in Okigwe as Heartland FC were shocked with Clement Ogwu’s 40th minute strike to earn the 'Church Boys' the only away win of the week.



At Sani Abacha stadium in Kano, Rivers flows to the Pyramid city to hold the 2018 Aiteo cup champions to a goalless draw.



In Anambra, Ifeanyi Ubah FC pipped newly promoted Adamawa United 1-0 to steal away the maximum three point.



Wikki Tourists are 2-1 better than Jigawa Golden Stars. Lala Abdullahi put the visitors ahead in the 15th minute before Saidu Abbdullahi and Mohammed Guda’s goals in the 47th and 61st minutes ensured the hosts claimed the three points.




#NPFL20 MATCHDAY 1 RESULTS

Wikki 2-1 Jigawa GS
Plateau Utd 3-1 Lobi
Delta Force 1-1 Akwa Starlets
Kano Pillars 0-0 Rivers Utd
Heartland 0-1 MFM
FC Ifeanyiubah 1-0 Adamawa Utd
Wolves 1-1 Akwa Utd
Abia Warriors 2-0 Katsina Utd

21 OLYMPIC EAGLES FOR U23 AFCON TITLE DEFENCE IN EGYPT

Imama Amapakabo has named his final 21-man generals  that will defend the U23 Africa Cup of Nations title in Egypt next month.


Nigeria, champions of the second edition of the competition in Senegal four years ago, will seek to retain their title when the third edition of the championship flags off in Cairo on 8th November.


The Olympic Eagles are in Group B and will battle Cote d’Ivoire, Zambia and South Africa in that order at the Al Salam Stadium.


Hosts Egypt head Group A that also has Ghana, Cameroon and Mali with matches to hold at the Cairo International Stadium.


Nigeria’s first match in Egypt is against Cote d’Ivoire on Sunday, 9th November.


The top three teams at the eight –nation finals will qualify to represent Africa in the Men’s Football Tournament of the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.




Goalkeepers: Adamu Abubakar (Wikki Tourists); Mohammed Galadima (Nasarawa United); Kingdom Osayi (Giant Brillers)

Defenders: Olisah Ndah (Remo Stars); Samuel Atavti (Esperance FC, Tunisia); Valentine Ozornwafor (UD Almeria, Spain); Sincere Seth (Boluspor FC, Turkey); Josiah Chukwudi (Spartak Tranava, Slovakia); Anthony Izuchukwu (Nest Sotra, Norway); Bitok Stephen (FC Isloch, Belarus)


Midfielders: Sunusi Ibrahim (Nasarawa United); Aliyu Yau Adam (Spartak Jurmala, Latvia); Muyiwa Olabiran (Tambov FC, Russia); Kelechi Nwakali (FC Huesca, Spain); Ndifreke Effiong (Akwa United); Sunday Faleye (Wacker FC, Austria); Tom Dele-Bashiru (Watford FC, England); Azubuike Okechukwu (Basaksehir FC, Turkey)


Forwards: Orji Okwonkwo (Bologna FC, Italy); Taiwo Awoniyi (FSV Mainz 05, Germany); Bright Enobakhare (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England)

Brazil 2019: Eaglets stun Ecuador 3-2 to reach Round of 16

Nigeria became the first team to reach the Round of 16 of the 2019 FIFA U17 World Cup finals in Brazil on Tuesday night on the back of a superlative hat –trick by forward Ibrahim Sa’id. Two goals in five second half minutes turned the table against a well –organized and cohesive Ecuador in Goiania.



Sa’id put Nigeria in front after only five minutes as goalkeeper Lopez made a hash of an attempted pass to his defender. An alert Sa’id intercepted and slotted past Lopez from outside the box.



The lively and tactically –disciplined South Americans were level five minutes later, as Mejia turned Ferdinand Ikenna from just outside the box and pulled the trigger. The ball grazed the upright and then went into the net off the back of goalkeeper Daniel Jinadu.



The Eaglets had endeavour, enthusiasm and pace, but were easily checkmated by the strong and highly coordinated Ecuadorians. Two minutes to the end of the first period, substitute Akinkunmi Amoo found Sa’id in the box, but the latter could not get the decisive touch needed to pull Nigeria level before the break.



Nine minutes into the second half, Ecuador were awarded a penalty by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) as Charles Etim had a slight contact with an advancing Ecuadorian attacker in a melee. Johan Mina sent Jinadu the wrong way to put the South Americans in the lead.



The Eaglets, five –time world champions, pushed, searched and frisked with determination, just as they did against Hungary in their first match before scoring three goals in six minutes in the second half to beat the Europeans 4-2 and bag the three points at stake.



Short and stray passes in the opposition’s critical zone, anxiety and wayward shooting did not help the Eaglets’ search for goals as time wore on.



However, substitutes Ibraheem Jabaar and Amoo had come close and captain Samson Tijani had fired over the bar before Sa’id drew Nigerian level in the 84th minute with a sweet, angled drive after receiving a pass from Jabaar.



Five minutes later, it was Sa’id again, blasting past Lopez from inside the box from a determined team move. Lopez got his hand to the ball but it was too hot to halt its flight into the net.



Jabaar went to the ground when he should have scored and Olakunle Olusegun shot narrowly wide in added time, but the Eaglets picked their three points for a maximum six in two matches and will await their opponents in the Round of 16, even as they travel to Brasilia for their last Group B game against Australia on Friday night.

Eaglets show class in world cup opener

Nigeria Golden Eaglets comes back from a goal to defeat Hungary in Their First game of the 2019 FIFA U17 World Cup in Brazil.

Hungary drew the first blood through Gyorgy Komaromi in the minutes before the 3rd Tijani Scored from the spot to leveled up for the Golden Eaglets FEW minutes later.

Hungary Took the lead again through Major Samuel in the 28 minutes the Golden Eaglets despite having more of the possessions with a scoreline of 2-1 before the break.


Manu Garba made two exchanges in the second half as Amoo comes in for Opeyemi while Jabaar aussi comes in for Ubani As They search for goals.

Purpose It Did not long before Took The Most successful team in this tournament bounce back with two goals from Ibrahim Usman and Adeniyi in the 79 and 81 minutes to put the Golden Eaglets in forehead as Tijani Scored his second and the Eaglets fourth goal from a free kick to seal the victory for the Golden Eaglets.

Osun SWAN congratulates Olayemi over appointment as Sports commissioner

Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Osun State Chapter has congratulated a former Deputy Governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the last governorship election, Mr. Lawal Azeez Olayemi over his appointment as the new Commissioner for Youths and Sports in the state.

The sports journalists in Osun commended Governor Gboyega Oyetola for considering Olayemi saying that the young politician merits the call for service.

Osun SWAN in a statement signed by its Chairman, Adeyemi Aboderin and Secretary, Timothy Agbor in Osogbo on Thursday, expressed optimism that the appointment of Mr. Olayemi will take sports to a higher level.

The association however urged him to foster a better working relationship between his office and sports writers in the state with a view to promoting and developing sports in the state.

"We congratulate Mr. Lawal Azeez Olayemi on his appointment as the Commissioner for Youths and Sports in Osun state. We believe his headship of this ministry will usher great development to our teeming youths and sports.

“We advise the new commissioner to work with media practitioners in the state who have cognate experiences in sports. Doing this would propell sports to greater heights," the statement reads.

Osun SWAN then prayed God to grant Olayemi the wherewithal to excel in his new assignment.

Eagles slump in latest FIFA ranking

Despite putting up a five star performance against Brazil in Singapore on October 13, the Super Eagles have again dropped in the latest FIFA ranking released this morning.


The Eagles who in September were rated 34 in the world are now 35, even as Belgium retained her position at the top.


Belgium (1st, unchanged) still lead the way ahead of France (2nd, unchanged) and Brazil (3rd, unchanged), although top-ten rivals Uruguay (5th, up 1), Croatia (7th, up 1) and Argentina (9th, up 1) have at least edged closer to the summit.


The most significant rises are to be found further down the ranking, where the in-form quartet of Ukraine (22nd, up 3), Japan (28th, up 3), Turkey (32nd, up 4) and Russia (37th, up 5) are among the more notable climbers.


Jumps of ten or more places have also been made by a clutch of teams outside the top 50, namely Nicaragua (137th, up 11), Barbados (160th, up 10), South Sudan (162nd, up 11) and São Tomé and Príncipe (180th, up 10).


There is also more cause for celebration for Kosovo (114th, up 5), who can once again reflect with pride on their best ranking position to date.
The next FIFA/Coca-Cola World Ranking will be published on 28 November 2019.


Leader Belgium (unchanged)
Moves into top 10 None
Moves out of top 10 None
Matches played in total 184
Most matches played Algeria, Morocco, Guinea, Libya, Bangladesh (4 matches each)
Biggest move by points São Tomé and Príncipe (up 29 points)
Biggest move by ranks Nicaragua, South Sudan (up 11 ranks).


Biggest drop by points Mauritius (down 29 points)
Biggest drop by ranks Mauritius (down 12 ranks)
Newly ranked teams None
Teams that are no longer ranked None
Inactive teams, not ranked Cook Islands

Prince Gas Cup kicks off with 7-goal thriller

The 2019 edition of Prince Gas Cup went up in flames as the game between defending champions, Aje United and Olu Omo FC ended 7⃣-2⃣.

It was a game of two halves as
gangling striker, Lekan Ayinde stole the weekend as he put four goals past Olu Omo FC goalkeeper at the Igando Public Field.

The defending champions opened the floodgate of goals in the 12th minute from a set-piece.
Olu Omo FC responded well scoring the equalizing goal two minutes later and made it 1-2 in the 34th.
Ayinde scored his 1st goal in the 39th minute putting the ball over an unrushing Olu Omo FC goalkeeper as the half ended in a 2-2 draw.

The second half was Ayinde's as he completed a hat-trick and added a fourth to lead the race for the top scorer's award.

In the other matches Newton G beat Glory FC 2-1, EFCC lost 2-3 to FC Baggio, Citadel FC pipped Boss Man Bet 2-1 while POSCA FC lost by a lone goal to Kedge Sports FC.

The Prince Gas Cup is a grassroot football tournament   hosted in Igando, a surburb of Lagos.

Ex-International, Bright Omokaro named Osun Utd head coach

Ex-international Bright Omokaro on Tuesday, 15th October, 2019 emerged as the coach of Osun United after the screening conducted by the management of the club for five shortlisted coaches.


Omokaro beat two ex-handlers of the Omoluabi Giants, Bayo Adesina and Sina Afolabi, as well as former Kwara United Gaffer, Tunde Sanni and Agbana Ademola of Ekiti United for the exalted hot seat of the club.


The former 3sc and Delta Force Coach led in the interview conducted by the management and replaced Samson Unuanel, whose contract expired after the end of 2019 Nigeria National League season.


Omokaro who played together with Osun United's President, Chief Ademola Adesina in Maroc '88, captained Green Eagles to win a silver medal in the tournament.


The professional career of Omokaro, who started his footballing journey from New National Bank, Benin City, spanned for over 12 years and he also starred for Bendel Insurance, Asec Mimosa, ACB, Abiola Babes before he called it quit with 3sc in 1996. He won Nigeria National Division One League with NNB as well as WAFU cup, Then CAF Cup with 3sc and made over 43 appearances for the Nigeria National team, where he featured in two African Cup of Nations.


The former technical adviser of Mighty Jets of Jos, who hails from Ovia Local Government area of Edo State, had a coaching training with Rayo Vallecano of Spain and possessed CAF C Coaching Licence.


Osun U

Aribo shines as Nigeria hold Brazil in Singapore friendly

Brazil held Nigeria 1-1 in a friendly match at the National Stadium, Singapore on Sunday. Joe Aribo made it two goals in two appearances for Super Eagles.



Early substitution for Neymar as he suffered a nasty groin in 11th minutes of play, paving way for Coutinho. His 101 cap for his country ended prematurely.



Enterprising Aribo opened scoring in 35th minutes, Osimhen's long cross from far right pick up Moses Simon inside the Brazilian dangerous area, Aribo benefited from Moses' soft thread and slammed the ball home to give Nigeria the lead going into the break.


Brazil started strong in the second half after Midfielder, Casemiro scored the leveler from a rebound in the 58th minute.


Gabriel Jesus almost made it 2-1 for the Selecao in the 57th minute but his well placed header off Coutinho’s cross was saved by Nigeria Goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho.


Things became worse for Super Eagles, when Francis Uzoho suffered an injury from a bad landing, after contesting in the air against Casemiro and he made way for Maduke Okoye, who made his debut for Nigeria.


Nigeria held off so much pressure from Brazil in the late minutes of the game to end things at 1-1.


This is Brazil’s second friendly this week after they played a 1-1 draw against Senegal at the same Stadium on Thursday. Brazil is 3rd on FIFA ranking while Nigeria is 33rd on the ranking table.


Seyi Akanni

SHUJI OSHOBE: Rivers United signs Remo Stars Tenacious Midfielder.

Rivers United have completed the signing of Remo Stars Football Club (RSFC) Midfielder, Shuji Oshobe on a two-year contract.

The tenacious midfielder joined the Sky Blue Stars from the defunct Awotedo FC, Ijebu Ode in 2014 and became an integral part helping Remo Stars FC gain promotion twice into the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).

"It's a privilege to have signed for such a club and I look forward to working hard towards being a contributor to their team of professional players.," he said.

"The decision to say goodbye to Remo Stars FC was hard because the club has been such a massive part of my life. I will like to thank everyone for their role in my life throughout my stay and I will cherish the moment for the rest of my life. It has been an honour and privilege wearing the jersey. While I have decided to move on, I wish the club all the best going forward." Shuji.

Fixtures for 2019 State of Osun Governor's Cup Released

The State of Osun Football Association, has released the first round fixtures of 2019 State of Osun Governor's Cup.



Fifty-two (52) club officials who registered for the competition converged at Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Football House, in Osogbo, being the venue of the draw to monitor the proceedings and pick their foes.



Speaking during the event, the Chairman Organizing and Strategic Committee of the State of Osun Football Association, Mr Salami Fatai, appealed to all participants to play by the rules guiding the competition. He noted that clubs must digests the rules of the competition distributed to participating teams. He further stated that the competition shall be on knock out basis.


The 2019 edition of Osun Governor's Cup is being sponsored by 'Sports Philanthropist', Hon. Babatunde Ayeni MHR., in which the eventual winner would smile home with the sum of two hundred thousand naira (200,000), while the runner's up would claim one hundred and fifty thousand naira (150,000).



The third and fourth best team would go home with one hundred thousand naira (100,000) and fifty thousand naira (50,000) respectively.
The sponsor would also kit all semi finalist to cap it all.

Full fixtures.

Day 1 (Osogbo Govt. High School) 20/10/2019

Ijesha Golden Stars Vs Olansile FA. 9am.

Victory Young Stars Ode Omu Vs Young Stars Ikire  10:30am

Zakariyau FC Vs Amsa FA Ife. 12Noon

Soccer Star FC Ilesa Vs Knights FC lfe. 1:30pm



Day 2 (Ife Anglican Sch. Pitch) 21/10/2019.

Ilobu FC Vs Ejigbo Utd. 9am

Elebuibon FC Vs Omec Ode Omu. 10:30am

Hon. Desmond FC Ilesa Vs Ijesa G. Warriors 12:Noon

Alasca FC Osogbo Vs Falex Super Star Ilesha. 1:30pm



Day 3 (Osogbo Govt. High School) 22/10/2019

Success FC Ilesa Vs Irepodun South Erin. 9am

Orolu FC Vs Ariwa FC Ipetumodu.10:30am

Oyintiloye FC Ibokun Vs Inisa FC. 12Noon

Golden Boys Osogbo Vs Ede Utd. 1:30pm


Day 4 (Osogbo Govt. High School) 23/10/2019

Almait FA Ede Vs Olaoluwa FC Bode Osi. 9am

Hadji Hamed FC Owode Vs Deen Babes (Senior). 10:30am


King Sport FC Osogbo Vs   Kookin FC Okuku. 12Noon

Olufi Utd Vs Favor FC Ode Omu. 1:30pm


Day 5 (ldo Osun High School) 26/10/2019.

Diamond New Era Osogbo Vs Atoba FC Osogbo. 9am

FedPoly Ede Vs Rovet Iwo. 10:30am

Telu Boys Iwo Vs Y. K Warriors Iragbiji. 12Noon

Osogbo United Vs New Star Ikirun. 1:30pm


Day 6 (ldo Osun High School) 27/10/2019.

DSKJ Obaagun Vs Radwiff Iwo. 9am

Shabab FC Iwo Vs Excel FC Osogbo. 10:30am

Comsaic FC Osogbo Vs Ede GFCC. 12Noon

Leke Hamzat FA Vs Zakariyau Feeders Ikirun. 1:30am


Day 7 (ldo Osun High School) 28/10/2019.

Awolu FC Ifon Vs Glorious Imesile. 1pm

Royal FC Ilobu Vs Deen Babes Jnr. Osogbo. 2:30pm


*Akanni Seyi*

Super Eagles player, Olamilekan Aniyikaye pens deal with Lobi Stars

Former Nigeria Professional Football League Champions have acquired the services of Nigeria Super Eagles player, Olamilekan Aniyikaye for 2019/20 league season.

Olamilekan, who has been likened to former AC Milan defender, Nesta started his playing career with Prime Fc(now Osun United) has also played for Bayelsa United and Fc Ifeanyi Ubah where he won the Federation's Cup.

His versatility as a defender earned him a call up to the Super Eagles where he represented the country at the WAFU Cup in Ghana.

While reacting after signing for Lobi Stars, the highly rated defender could not hide his joy and promised to help Lobi Stars back to the summit of Nigerian Football.

"I am so happy to have signed for Lobi Stars. They are a very big club with great vein of history in Nigerian Football. Lobi Stars are a club that have realisable ambitions and that is why I have decided to join the club and make the ambitions come to reality. Iam here to take the team back to where it belongs, the summit of Nigeria Football."

The former federation Cup winner also pledged his 100% loyalty to Lobi Stars.

"Lobi Stars is my club and I will remain a Lobi Stars player. Though, I had numerous offers from clubs in and outside Nigeria but I chose this club because I want to write history with them.

The former Ifeanyi Ubah player is a complete defender who is fond of winning duels on the ground and in the air will be hoping to bring his wealth of experience to the back line of Lobi Stars.

Having played for the Super Eagles at the WAFU Cup before, Olamilekan is hoping that signing for Lobi Stars will be the springboard for him to gain call ups to the Super Eagles again while promising to utilize his chance if called to represent Nigeria.

He is however full of optimism that his dream of securing lucrative deal and playing in Europe for big clubs will soon be realised.