Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. - Sports (33) - Nairaland
Nairaland Forum / Entertainment / Sports / Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. (249182 Views)
Nigeria Vs South Africa 2019 AFCON Qualifiers: 0 - 2 (Full Time) / Flying Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: U-20 World Cup (South Korea 2017) / Super Falcons of Nigeria Thread: 2015 Women's World Cup (2) (3) (4)
(1) (2) (3) ... (30) (31) (32) (33) (34) (35) (36) ... (161) (Reply) (Go Down)
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by terzurum5(m): 4:04pm On Sep 30, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] AF Nigeria 2017 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers Nigeria Musa, Doumbia headline Africans in UEFA action tonight [/size]  Ahmed Musa has now scored five league goals for CSKA this season by Graeme Jackson The CSKA Moscow attacking pair of Ahmed Musa and Seydou Doumbia will headline African involvement in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday night, with the duo set to lead the Russian side’s attack against PSV Eindhoven. Read: Sofiane Feghouli fires Valencia to victory CSKA will host the Dutch club at Khimki Arena, looking to bounce back after their matchday one loss against Wolfsburg. PSV, meanwhile, are still on a high after defeating Manchester United 2-1 earlier in the month. Doumbia and Musa will be looking to continue the fine form they have shown this season, having netted a combined nine goals in the Russian Premier League, as well as three each in the qualifying phase of the Champions League. Elsewhere, Yaya Toure is set to feature for Manchester City in their away trip to Borussia Monchengladbach. The Ivory Coast midfielder limped off in the loss to Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend, but returned to full training on Tuesday alongside other injury doubts Joe Hart and David Silva. However, Elephants striker Wilfried Bony remains sidelined with an ankle injury. Other Africans to watch out for include Foxi Kéthévoama, with Astana set to host Aurélien Chedjou’s Galatasaray, though Ghanaian Patrick Twumasi is suspended for the clash. Serge Aurier will return from a ban for PSG, who are are away to Shakhtar Donetsk, and Enoch Kofi Adu’s Malmo will host Spanish giants Real Madrid. UEFA Champions League fixtures, Wednesday 30 September All times CAT Group C – Astana v Galatasaray, 18h00 Group C – Atletico v Benfica, 20h45 Group D – Monchengladbach v Man City, 20h45 Group D – Juventus v Sevilla, 20h45 Group A – Shakhtar v PSG, 20h45 Group A – Malmo v Real Madrid, 20h45 Group B – Man United v Wolfsburg, 20h45 Group B – CSKA v PSV, 20h45 [/b] africanfootball.com/news/572256/Musa-Doumbia-headline-Africans-in-UEFA-action-tonight |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 12:10pm On Oct 01, 2015 |
[size=14pt] B/Faso Face Rwanda For Eagles Clash [/size]  By Izuchukwu Okosi: Nigeria's opponents in the 2016 African Nations Championship qualifier Burkina Faso will face Rwanda on October 9 ahead of their game against the home-based Super Eagles. The friendly between Burkina Faso and CHAN 2016 hosts, Rwanda, will be held in Morocco. The 2016 CHAN will hold between January 16 to February 7. Recently Super Eagles of Nigeria head coach Sunday Oliseh announced a 19-man squad for the qualifier. Nigeria will host the first leg of the qualifier on October 18 in Port Harcourt while the return leg holds in Ouagadougou on Sunday, 25th October. The home-based Eagles will start camping ahead of the game on Monday, October 5 in Port Harcourt. www.completesportsnigeria.com/bfaso-face-rwanda-for-eagles-clash/ 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 12:11pm On Oct 01, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Eagles Rise One Place In FIFA Rankings [/size]  By Nurudeed Obalola: The Super Eagles moved up one place in the latest FIFA rankings which were announced on Thursday, incidentally Nigeria’s Independence Day. The 2013 African champions climbed from 53rd to 52nd, gaining one point from 599 to 600. Nigeria, however, dropped one spot in the African rankings from ninth to 10th. The Super Eagles played two matches in September, the month under review, drawing with Tanzania in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier before defeating neighbours Niger in a friendly. As expected, competitive matches have more value in the rankings than friendlies. Interestingly, Nigeria’s opponents in the October friendlies, Cameroon and Congo, and the Eagles’ AFCON qualifying group rivals Egypt, are ranked seventh, eighth and ninth in Africa. Cameroon are seventh in Africa and 48th in the world with 640 points, having dropped six places. Congo are eighth in Africa and 49th in the world with 636 points, slipping seven places from the last rankings. Egypt are ninth in Africa and 51st globally with 620 points, also dropping from their last position, although by just two spots. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/eagles-rise-one-place-in-fifa-rankings/ 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 12:14pm On Oct 01, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Super Eagles Stars, Ghana FA Salute Nigeria @ 55 [/size]  By James Agberebi: As Nigeria marks 55 years as an independent country on Thursday, Super Eagles players have taken to Twitter to join millions of Nigerians both home and abroad to celebrate the day. AS Monaco defender, Elderson Echiejile, calls on every Nigerian to live as one and in peace in his Independence Day message. “As we mark our 55th Independence Day today, I urge us all to continue to live in oneness. Let’s make our country greater.” “The strength of any nation is in her unity. May we continue to live in peace and make a greater nation. Happy Independence,” he wrote. Injured Eagles central defender, Kenneth Omeruo, also had an Independence Day message to his compatriots. “Happy independence day to all Nigerians all over the world,” Omeruo wrote on Twitter. Haugesund defender, William Troost-Ekong, tweeted: “Happy Independence Day to all my fellow Nigerians. 55 years and counting.” Watford striker, Odion Ighalo, added: “God bless Nigeria. Happy Independence.” Also, the Ghana Football Association, sent in their Independence greetings. “Happy Independence Day to our Nigerian siblings,” Nigeria’s neighbours and football rivals wrote. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/super-eagles-stars-ghana-fa-salute-nigeria-55/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 12:17pm On Oct 01, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] SUPER EAGLES NO LONGER AT EASE [/size] When the Group Managing Director of Complete Communications Ltd., Alhaji Mumini Alao, saw the draw for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, he said something like “We will qualify from the group. We have to believe we will. We can’t afford to miss another AFCON.” Alhaji Alao knows his football having been around for ages and covered the Super Eagles for many years. But he was speaking more in hope than expectation in our Okota, Lagos office that Wednesday afternoon. The Super Eagles have fallen from the heady heights of being African champions in 2013 to the nadir of failing to qualify for the tournament that followed. With only one spot guaranteed in each qualifying group, you would have to be a wildly optimistic Nigerian to expect the Super Eagles to win the group ahead of Egypt, Tanzania and Chad. While their group rivals are not exactly world beaters at the moment, the Eagles are also not in the kind of state to inspire confidence. The Nigerian side did not win any of their last three matches, losing one and drawing two. Given that these games were against South Africa (twice) and Uganda, one would have expected more, much more. Also, two of these games were at home, one of which was a friendly defeat to Uganda. Nigeria did not play well in any of these games. Poor performances plus poor results. The truth is that the Super Eagles are in horribly poor form and the absence of a substantive coach is not helping matters. Since that 2-2 draw at the magnificent Akwa Ibom Stadium, Uyo back in November, the Eagles have not had a full-time coach. The world record contract negotiation between the Nigeria Football Federation and Stephen Keshi has dragged on, both parties going on as if the interest of Nigerian football is secondary to their battle of gigantic egos. In a sane society, Keshi would have resigned honorably after failing to get the team to qualify for the 2015 AFCON. Of course he is a lifetime hero for winning the African trophy in 2013. But he received the acclaim and rewards worthy of his success and he reveled in all the adulation. But the qualifying campaign for the 2015 AFCON was a huge shambles (losses to Sudan away and Congo at home are inexcusable and ultimately costly) and Keshi should have been long gone. The NFF did sack him at a point during the qualifiers in a desperate attempt to rescue the situation. But they were overruled. The football body would have got some sympathy for the interference from the powers that be, but their rather lame cover-up of the whole mess stank to high heavens. Any little goodwill they were getting went up in smoke when they claimed that Shaibu Amodu, who had been named as Keshi’s replacement, had turned down the offer. That would be the same Amodu that had already started talking to the press about his plans for the rest of the qualifiers. Now they seem stuck with Keshi, but even getting him to return is being handled like some complicated space rocket mission. With this situation, it would be foolhardy to expect the wobbly Eagles to soar through the group and qualify for Angola 2017 with ease. Even without the NFF/Keshi mess, it is open to argument if Nigeria has players with enough quality to ensure progress. Let us break the squad down and see how good our playing personnel really are. Obviously, Nigeria is well stacked in the goalkeeping department with Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide and a raft of shot-stoppers in the Nigeria Professional Football League (Glo Premier League). So, no problem there. The leaders of the Eagles defence at the moment are Efe Ambrose, Elderson Echiejile, Godfrey Oboabona, Kenneth Omeruo and Azubuike Egwuekwe. Apart from perhaps Warri Wolves’ Egwuekwe, none of these players gets regular action at club level; they haven’t played well for the Eagles in a long while. Oboabona and Omeruo were poor against Uganda and South Africa in recent friendlies; and both of them, along with Monaco’s Echiejile, are not getting games. Oboabona is struggling at a low-level Turkish club; Omeruo can’t dislodge over-the-hill, 35-year-old Jonathan Woodgate at second division Middlesbrough. Among the new crop of defenders, Leon Balogun plays for a lower league club in Germany and the ones based at home have not been too convincing. The midfield is not much better. The key men are not regulars at club level and have not been too impressive for the Super Eagles. The last time Mikel Obi was any good was at the 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil. The Chelsea midfielder was more of a liability than an asset at the last World Cup and the qualifiers for AFCON 2015. He also hardly gets games at Chelsea when fit, as he plays back-up to Nemanja Matic or only gets thrown on when a game needs to be sewn up with the Blues leading. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/super-eagles-no-longer-at-ease/ .....continue in the next post |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 12:20pm On Oct 01, 2015 |
.....continue from the last post [b][size=14pt] SUPER EAGLES NO LONGER AT EASE [/size] The other senior midfielder in the squad, Ogenyi Onazi, spends much more time out of the Lazio team than in, and has been shocking in most of his recent international games. The new breed of Reading’s Hope Akpan and the Switzerland-based Steven Ukoh do not fill fans with much hope and not many midfield gems have been unearthed in the Glo Premier League. The attack is also not very encouraging. Emmanuel Emenike has failed to hit any kind of form since the AFCON two years ago and some of the qualifiers for the 2014 World Cup. He is also struggling at Fenerbahce where the club’s fans have turned on him. Brown Ideye has hit a rough patch after a good run of form for West Brom, and he hasn’t played for the Super Eagles in ages. Ikechukwu Uche is not exactly setting La Liga on fire at Villarreal, where he has been struggling with injuries. However, the attack has some bright lights in Ahmed Musa (even though he is not the most consistent player around), Raja Casablanca’s Osaguona Ighodalo and Esperance new boy Emem Eduok. The truth is that the Eagles are in a really tough group, maybe the toughest of the 13, and the playing and coach staff do not inspire much confidence. But qualification is still possible – even probable – if they set out clear targets and go diligently after these targets. First, sort out the coaching issue and get the boss working at least a month before the first match in June. Once this is done, the next thing is to go aggressively after realizable targets. It is quite simple really. While only one spot is guaranteed for the group, the runners-up can also qualify if they are one of the two best second-placed teams. In view of these, the Eagles do not even need to finish above fellow fallen giants Egypt. The key thing is for the Eagles to assert their superiority over minnows Tanzania and Chad. Home and away wins over these two would bring in 12 points; anything from the two Egypt games would be a nice bonus. So, with say 13 points (or 15 if the Eagles beat Egypt in Nigeria) qualification would be virtually assured. If Nigeria can’t top the group, chances are they would secure qualification as one of the best two runners-up. To achieve this, we must avoid the usual destructive tendency to underrate the smaller teams. The Eagles would have easily qualified for the last AFCON if they had beaten Congo in Calabar and Sudan away. The two draws with South Africa would not have been ultimately damaging. Hopefully, they would have learnt their lessons, and excuses of hostile crowds, poor pitches and such nonsense would not be necessary. Just beat Tanzania and Chad home and away and get us to Gabon. MOAN OF THE WEEK It’s disheartening that Nigerian players never seem to learn. The latest in the series of harebrained moves is that of Flying Eagles captain Musa Muhammed deserting the U23s camp days to a key match in Lusaka, apparently to go on trials abroad. You just wonder who gives these kids advice. Couldn’t they have told Muhammed that if the obscure club he was rushing off to try out for really wanted him they could wait one or two more weeks? It’s not as if the transfer window is about to close or there is some sort of deadline he had to meet. Our young players should start learning that patience pays, and if you’re talented enough, you will get lucrative deals abroad with proper clubs. I would not be surprised if Muhammed ended up in Serbia or Azerbaijan with a controversial contract requiring the NFF’s intervention. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/super-eagles-no-longer-at-ease/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 12:25pm On Oct 01, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Adeniji, Salami top Nigeria squad for CHAN qualifier against Burkina Faso [/size]  The NPFL top joint-scorer leads 18 other local based professionals for Super Eagles clash against the Stallions Nigeria coach Sunday Oliseh has announced a 19-man squad for the country’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualification match against Burkina Faso in October, as the country seeks its second participation since the competition started. Sunshine Stars’ hotshot, Tunde Adeniji lead the team that parades Gbolahan Salami, Solomon Kwambe, Bature Yaro and Ezekiel Bassey. Others are Idris Aloma, Stephen Eze, Usman Mohammed and Dayo Ojo. Invited players are expected to report in Port Harcourt on Monday, October 4 ahead of the first leg clash against the west African country billed for October 18 at the Adokiye Amiesieamaka Stadium. The return leg comes up in Ouagadougou on October 25. The team will be joined by Femi Thomas (Enyimba FC), Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Sunshine Stars), Chima Akas (Sharks FC), Austin Oboroakpo (Abia Warriors), Paul Onobi (Sunshine Stars) and Prince Aggreh (Sunshine Stars) who will be in Belgium for Nigeria’s international friendlies against Cameroon and DR Congo. FULL SQUAD Goalkeepers:David Obiazor (Heartland FC); Okemute Odah (Warri Wolves) Defenders:Kalu Orji (Enugu Rangers); Solomon Kwambe (Warri Wolves); Idris Aloma (Enyimba FC); Samson Gbadebo (Lobi Stars); Jamiu Alimi (Shooting Stars); Stephen Eze (Sunshine Stars) Midfielders: Abdulrazaq Abdul (Enyimba FC); Ifeanyi Mathew (El-Kanemi Warriors); Usman Mohammed (FC Taraba); Bature Yaro (Nasarawa United); Osas Okoro (Enugu Rangers) Forwards:Ezekiel Bassey (Enyimba FC); Gbolahan Salami (Warri Wolves); Godwin Obaje (Wikki Tourists); Tunde Adeniji (Sunshine Stars); Bright Onyedikachi (FC IfeanyiUbah); Dayo Ojo (Sunshine Stars) [/b] m.goal.com/x/en-ng/news/4093/nigeria/2015/09/29/15831242/adeniji-salami-top-nigeria-squad-for-chan-qualifier-against |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:37pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Johansen: With Funds, Leone Stars Can Rival Super Eagles [/size]  By Izuchukwu Okosi: The President of the Sierra Leone Football Federation Isha Johansen has expressed an implicit belief in the capability of her country's national team, Leone Stars, to rival the Super Eagles of Nigeria and other continental giants at major tournaments with firm financial muscle. Speaking exclusively to Comple tesportsnigeria.com from her office in Freetown, Johansen insists the countries that have dominated in football on the African continent have been able to do so because of their vision and willingness to support the growth of the game. Good funding for football is an objective Johansen is driving in a bid to see Sierra Leone rise as one of the best African teams capable of winning laurels at major tournaments. "Sierra Leone is just like any of the other big names in the continent. "We have raw talents like all the others. The difference between Sierra Leone and Nigeria, Ghana and Ivory Coast is the funding and or access to funding. "You (Nigeria) have an income generating system that works," Johansen who is the owner of FC johansen Football Club further told Comple tesportsnigeria.com: "It might not work to the extent that some of these federations would like, but at least they receive income. You have private sector companies that are committed to sponsoring and endorsing their national teams. "Finally, these countries have Governments, like Nigeria, that do not waiver in terms of financial commitment to their national teams. "I think that once our FA is able to get stronger financially, we can be able to empower our teams especially the home based lads who are the answer to the future of Leone Stars," Johansen said. Speaking on her dream for African football in the next ten years, the founder of the Women For Excellence Awards enthused: "My dream is that we lift the World Cup. That African teams excel more on the international stage and we do not participate as token African teams. "We should be in there to win it. We should go in prepared and structured with the discipline akin to any other world class national team. "I dream of African federations showing strong solidarity and support towards one another. It has started with the Ebola crisis," Johansen said philosophically. She went on to disclose that unlike Nigeria, some African countries paid deaf ears to their cries. "Many countries shut us out and I can understand the fear. "However, some countries rose above the discrimination- Ivory Coast, DRC, Cameroon, Algeria, and now as a sign of true leadership and brotherhood, Nigeria. "We need each other on and off the pitch and football has the power to enforce and strengthen this solidarity," the strong woman of Sierra Leone football concluded. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/johansen-with-funds-leone-stars-can-rival-super-eagles/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:44pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Celtic Stars Defend Underfire Ambrose After Europa League Mistakes [/size]  By Johnny Edward: Celtic players Kris Commons and Leigh Griffiths have both rallied support for an apologetic Efe Ambrose who cost the Hoops two priceless Europa League points in Thursday’s Europa League 2-2 draw with Fenerbache at the Parkhead stadium. Ronny Deila’s side were two goals up courtesy of Leigh Griffiths in the 28th minute and Kris Commons in the 32nd minute but Ambrose’s short back pass allowed substitute Fernandao in to give the visitors a route back into this Group A encounter which cost the Hoops two priceless Europa League points. Ambrose has since apologised to his Celtic team-mates for his mistakes. “Efe’s mistake led to a goal but he played really well,” Commons, who scored Celtic’s second on the night, told the Scotland Herald. “He won his headers, he came out with the ball and he was good in possession. But mistakes do happen. If Fernandao doesn’t score, nobody says anything. “Unfortunately, Efe was last man, Fenerbahce got a goal and I feel sorry for the boy. I don’t think he’s under any more pressure because people talk about his mistakes. “For 44 minutes, he was flawless. I went through 90 minutes probably making more mistakes than Efe does – but mine are up the other end of the park. Efe knows what happened. He’s bitterly disappointed but it won’t affect his confidence.” “Efe held his hands up straight away and we had to pick him up at half-time,” added Leigh Griffiths, the scorer of his side’s opening goal. “But it’s a team game and we are all in it together. We can’t keep giving away cheap goals. They didn’t actually have a lot of chances but they punished us. It’s disappointing to give Efe all the criticism for what happened because he had a good game otherwise.” Commons feels Celtic can travel to Molde with confidence. “We are confident,” he said. “We have given two of the tougher opposition really tough games and led in both so we will be looking to go there and stamp our game plan on them and come away with the three points. but they are in a really good position. they have four points from two games and are top of the charts.” [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/celtic-stars-defend-underfire-ambrose-after-europa-league-mistakes/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:45pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Celtic Coach, Fans Slam Ambrose After Fenerbahce Errors [/size] [img]http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/celtic-coach-fans-slam-ambrose-after-fenerbahce-errors/[/img] By Johnny Edward: Celtic manager Ronny Deila has slammed his Nigerian defender Efe Ambrose for the lack of concentration which cost the Hoops dearly in their 2-2 Europa League draw with Fenerbahce at Parkhead on Thurdsay night. First-half goals from Leigh Griffiths and Kris Commons gave the Scottish champions a two goal lead after 32 minutes until a bad mistake by the Nigeria defender two minutes from the break allowed substitute Fernandao to pull a goal back. The Brazilian striker, on in the 40th minute for the injured Volkan Sen, headed in his second three minutes after the restart from a corner after he had escaped the attention of Ambrose and in the end the Parkhead side had to settle for a point. The Norwegian said after the game: “When you are defending you need to keep concentration for 90 minutes and that is the biggest challenge Efe has. “He plays 88 minutes very good but he sometimes makes some easy mistakes and today was one of them. “As a defender you have to keep concentration for 90 minutes. “I think we played well in the first half, we got 2-0 up and it was important to keep that lead into the break. Meanwhile Celtic fans on twitter also laid into the Nierian defender who has been called up to replace the injured Kenneth Omeruo for next weekend’s international friendlies against Congo and Cameroon in Belgium. Below are some of the responses of the fans on Twitter: Joeypaisley @joeypaisley wrote: “Efe Ambrose is the Frank Spencer of fitbawI’d rather have played John Kennedy @ the back if we’re struggling2 points lost#Celtic” Declan @DeclanEvans wrote:”Efe ambrose football equivalent of a jobby filled toilet” Jig @Rocks_67 wrote: “It’s not Efe Ambrose fault he’s not good enough for Celtic, it’s the lack of ambition that we have that’s the reason why he’s still here.” Alan Quin wrote:”Efe Ambrose makes me want to cry. Can’t fault the rest of the team though. Tierney and Forrest were top class,” Ronnie Charters wrote:”If Efe Ambrose is #Celtic quality then they are far worse than I imagined. Ronny Deila cannot be excused for persisting with that man.” Conor Rafferty wrote: “I feel like I’m going insane when I keep asking myself the same question. Why is Efe Ambrose still at Celtic? He’s a liability.” Scottish Sun also tweeted:| Should Efe Ambrose play again for Celtic in Europe after another costly mistake? RT no FAV yes #OverTheScore. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/celtic-coach-fans-slam-ambrose-after-fenerbahce-errors/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:50pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Ezenwa: Eagles Can Beat Egypt, Sunshine Can Upstage Enyimba [/size]  Goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa says Super Eagles will benefit hugely from the two international friendly games against Congo and Cameroon slated to hold in Belgium. In this interview with Completesportsnigeria’s SAB OSUJI, the Sunshine Stars of Akure shot-stopper insists the home-based stars will excel at the Championship of African Nations as well as lay good claim to main Super Eagles team jerseys… Congratulations on your invitation to Super Eagles camp ahead of next week’s international friendly games with Congo and Cameroon in Belgium… Thank you, I’m happy that I was selected amongst the team that will play those games and all I need now is to work hard to ensure I make the final list. How do you look forward to the two games considering they will play a big role in shaping up the Super Eagles team that will tackle Pharaohs of Egypt in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier? Personally, I’m looking forward to it with determination. Everything in life has to do with self-belief and confidence. When you are confident in yourself, when you are determined and ready to work hard, then success will come. No doubt Congo will be a true test for you guys going into the AFCON qualifiers… Well, I’ve not watched Congo play. I’ve not also played against them but I know that no match is ever easy and I don’t expect Congo to be an easy ride. What about Cameroon?. They won’t come to Belgium for sight-seeing… Sure, first you know the rivalry between Nigeria and Cameroon. Be it at club or national team level, it has always been war and that will also play out in this one in Belgium because they too are building up for their own AFCON qualifiers too. Still on the AFCON qualifiers; Egypt are top on the Super Eagles group and Nigeria have this tough game with them coming up. Are you guys confident you can upstage them? First I’ve not watched them play. Secondly I’ve not played against them. But history tells us that Egypt are a strong football nation whether at club or national team level. They have won the Nations Cup more than any country in Africa. Their clubs have won the CAF Champions League more than any team in the continent, these can confirm their strength. But let me tell you one thing; the present Super Eagles comprise players with determination, hard work and with a new coach and new philosophy, yes, we can upstage them, this I’m sure of. Every player wants to achieve and when such opportunity comes he takes it. We can beat Egypt and qualify ahead of them. You sound so confident, why? Of course, we have good players in the team, they work hard week in, week out and everyone wants to be at the Nations Cup and would not want any team, including Egypt, to be a stumbling block. But, before the Nations Cup qualifying match with Egypt, there will be a CHAN qualifier against Burkina Faso who were runners-up in the All Africa Games in Congo. What chances do you think you guys who are home-based players stand in the game with the Stallions of Burkina Faso? I have not played against them before, neither have I watched them too. But I know they finished second in the football event of the All Africa Games. But as home-based players, we always look for such opportunity to express ourselves to prove we can do it. So I believe that with the quality of players we have in the Nigerian Professional Football League, we can do our best to get the job done and done very well too. Don’t forget Nigeria have never won that Cup before. Does that not constitute a form of pressure on you guys going into that game? We have not won the cup before, I agree. But won the bronze medal in our first time of featuring in the tournament, that was last year. You were there in South Africa last year when Nigeria made her first appearance in the tournament proper and you saw what happened. So we as a team are not new to it and are not in any form of pressure at all. Our objective is to prove to Nigerians that those of us still playing in the domestic league are good and can stand our ground any time. What positives will you take from the two friendly games against Congo and Cameroon going into the two major competitive games against Egypt in the AFCON qualifiers and the clash with Burkina Faso in the CHAN qualifiers? I think the two games with Congo and Cameroon are very crucial to us. First they will help build our confidence before the games with Egypt and Burkina Faso. Again, we believe that if we work hard enough, we can lay good claim for shirts in the AFCON qualifying squad team that will play Egypt. It will also help us prepare well for the game with Burkina Faso and I’m grateful to the Nigeria Football Federation for arranging those games for the team. [/b] .....Continue in the next post |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:52pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
.....Interview continues from the last post [b][size=14pt] Ezenwa: Eagles Can Beat Egypt, Sunshine Can Upstage Enyimba [/size] [img]http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/oliseh-recalls-mikel-enyeama-moses-ighalo-for-cameroon/[/img] Sunshine Stars are doing so well in the league this season, tell me, what’s that special thing that is pushing them on? The only special thing or secret I can say is that every player in Sunshine Stars is determined to work hard and succeed. We want to be the first set of players to win a league trophy for the team and Ondo State. We want to ensure that at the end of the 38-match season, we could be counted among the winners and have something to show to our children later that we achieved in the game. With seven matches to end the season, do you think that title ambition is still achievable? Yeah, we strongly believe so. We just want to ensure we win every single game now onwards, starting with Warri Wolves this weekend. We believe that even though Enyimba are five points clear, they can still drop points before coming to play us here in Akure. For us, we have four home games and three away matches in the remaining seven games, so anything can still happen. You won the FA Cup with Ocean Boys in 2006 and the league also with Ocean Boys in 2008. But that has not reflected in your national team career… You see, I believe it has been a long time I won a trophy because between 2008 and 2015, its about seven years I’ve not touched any silverware. So I hope to get my hands on a trophy this year, it is still a possibility. Every player wants to win, win and win. I hope to do that as well. As for my past national team career, I don’t want to talk about that, even for now. But with this opportunity of being part of the senior national team once again in the kitty, what’s your target? To grab it, make the best of it and lay a strong claim to the national team gloves. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/ezenwa-eagles-can-beat-egypt-sunshine-can-upstage-enyimba/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:56pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] England Snub Ibe, Call Up Dele Alli [/size]  England manager Roy Hodgson has snubbed Liverpool youngster Jordon Ibe but included Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Dele Alli in his squad for the first time for the forthcoming Euro 2016 qualifiers with Estonia and Lithuania. Ibe, who qualifies to play for both Nigeria and England, was strongly courted by Nigeria, where his father hails from. But the winger, who has played for England at age-grade levels, turned down Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh’s overtures, and declared that he would pursue a Three Lions spot. Ibe’s form has been patchy since turning down his father’s country, and Hogson has now overlooked the skillful teenager. In contrast Alli, who also has a Nigerian father but has not been as strongly chased as Ibe, has enjoyed a superb start to the new season with Spurs, having joined the club from Championship side MK Dons. The 19-year-old has featured in all but one of Tottenham’s fixtures this campaign, scoring his first Premier League goal for the club in the 1-1 draw with Leicester City back in August. Leicester forward Jamie Vardy and Southampton left-back Ryan Bertrand are also included in the squad, along with fit-again Manchester United defender Phil Jones. England squad: Goalkeepers: Jack Butland (Stoke City), Joe Hart (Manchester City), Tom Heaton (Burnley). Defenders: Ryan Bertrand (Southampton), Gary Cahill (Chelsea), Nathaniel Clyne (Liverpool), Kieran Gibbs (Arsenal), Phil Jagielka (Everton), Phil Jones (Manchester United), Chris Smalling (Manchester United), John Stones (Everton). Midfielders: Dele Alli (Tottenham Hotspur), Ross Barkley (Everton), Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Adam Lallana (Liverpool), James Milner (Liverpool), Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal), Jonjo Shelvey (Swansea City), Raheem Sterling (Manchester City). Forwards: Danny Ings (Liverpool), Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Jamie Vardy (Leicester City), Theo Walcott (Arsenal). [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/england-snub-ibe-call-up-dele-alli/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 2:09pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Onazi Scores, Dedicates Goal To Nigeria @ 55 [/size]  By Johnny Edward: Super Eagles midfielder Ogenyi Onazi scored his first goal of the season for Lazio in Thursday's 3-2 Europa League Cup win against nine-man Saint Etienne and dedicated it to his fatherland Nigeria. The Nigerian international making his 21st appearance in the competition for the Biancocoleste restored parity for the hosts in the 22nd minute after Mustapha Bayall, who was later sent off in the 72nd minute, had given the visitors a sixth minute lead. Onazi wrote on Twitter: "Three points in the bag with one goal for my beloved #NigeriaAt55. Thanks to our fans! #ForzaLazio." Wesley Hoedt and Lucas Bigla were the other scorers for Lazio on the night. Onazi who was yellow carded in the 25th minute was replaced in the 74th minute by Danilo Cataldi. With this win, Lazio are tied on the same four points with Michael Babatunde's Dnipro but with a superior goal difference to the Ukrainian side who defeated Rosenburg by a lone goal in the other fixture in the group. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/onazi-scores-dedicates-goal-to-nigeria-55/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 2:10pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Eagles’ strength impresses Oliseh [/size] Nigeriahead coach, Sunday Oliseh, says he has been left impressed by the mental strength of the players he has worked with since taking charge of the national team. Oliseh’s first game in charge was a 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier against Tanzania in Dar es Salaam on September 5 and despite failing to guide the side to a win, he took positive memories from the 0-0 draw with the Tanzanians. With the score tied at 0-0 during the break and the Taifa Stars clearly on top in the first half, Oliseh said he was stunned to meet his players looking calm in the changing room as they sought to steady the ship ahead of the second half. “What impressed me the most about my team was the unity and the way they stayed calm in the dressing room at half time.  Sunday Oliseh “They were the first that realized that things were not going right. They were all trying to find solutions among themselves. “That is something you usually require the services of a psychologist for,” Oliseh said. The coach then took the time to discuss his coaching philosophy and what he intends to bring to the three-time African champions as coach, as regards their playing style. “For us to go further, we must have a (definite) style of play. “The philosophy is simple. When we don’t have the ball, we must behave and act in a particular manner and there should also be a way we behave when we have possession of the ball. “The problem we have however is that Nigerians just don’t want us to win. “They want us to win playing good football but that will require time. “I cannot tell Nigerians how long I will need to achieve that but we have a clear objective at this moment. “That objective is qualifying for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon,” he said. Oliseh has an unblemished record as Nigeria coach as he is yet to taste defeat after overseeing his first two matches. He will be looking to continue his fine run as Nigeria coach when the Super Eagles face Congo DR and Cameroon in international friendlies later this month. [/b] www.vanguardngr.com/2015/10/eagles-strength-impresses-oliseh/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 2:30pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino delighted by Dele Alli England call-up [/size]  By Nick Howson Alli has made nine appearances for Tottenham this seasonGetty Tottenham Hotspur manager Mauricio Pochettino has no problem with Dele Alli being given his maiden senior England call-up despite previously questioning the managing of young players by the national team. Alli has been included in the 24-man squad for the European Championship qualifiers against Estonia and Lithuania after making just three Premier League starts for the north London club since joining from Milton Keynes Dons. The 19 year old agreed to move to White Hart Lane during the last January transfer window, before moving back to Dons on loan for the remainder of the previous season prior to arriving on a permanent basis in the summer. Alli has wasted little time making an impression, making nine appearances in all, which has included his maiden top-flight goal. Amid a run of form for Harry Kane which has seen the Tottenham striker score just once for his club this season, Pochettino has heeded caution over the expectations about young players and expressed concern with the physical demands imposed on them, claiming England must " be careful with the younger players". The Argentine boss has however backtracked on those comments and is delighted that Alli has been recognised. "This is good news for us today and for him and we are all happy," he said after the 1-1 Europa League draw with Monaco," according to Sky Sports. "It is good for him and for Tottenham after. It is done and the decision is always for the manager. Roy Hodgson called me, sent a text and said he will look after him. It's not a problem and in the end every single player is different. "He has a very good character, is very mature and how he plays is how he is. The only thing is we need to work with the national team. We are here to help, we love the England players and have the possibility to go to the national team. "The most important thing is we [Tottenham] have a very good relationship with Roy and we need to look after the player all together to look after him and his career. It is not about the number of games and if he is 19, 18 or 20 years old. It is about performance and believing in the players. "It is a decision for him and we need to respect and back the decision and then the supporters can enjoy with him. It's not many games he has played for us but the supporters will enjoy a lot the way that he plays." [/b] www.ibtimes.co.uk/tottenham-manager-mauricio-pochettino-delighted-by-dele-alli-england-call-1522106 |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 2:34pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Tottenham’s Dele Alli says he was left ‘speechless’ by England call-up [/size] 19-year-old joins squad for Euro 2016 qualifiers against Estonia and Lithuania Liverpool’s Danny Ings also says is ‘shocked’ to earn first call-up Tottenham’s Dele Alli has made appearances for England Under-21s but this is the first time Roy Hodgson has called him up to the senior side. Tottenham Hotspur’s Dele Alli says he was left “speechless” by his maiden England call-up, just five months after playing in League One. Joining Roy Hodgson’s senior side caps a remarkable year for the highly-talented 19-year-old midfielder, having secured a £5m move to Spurs and achieved promotion with MK Dons. Alli will join England’s squad for the upcoming Euro 2016 qualifiersagainst Estonia and Lithuania, having started the year played against teams such as Crawley Town, Scunthorpe United and Fleetwood Town. “I was speechless,” Alli said, when asked of his reaction to his call-up. “It’s been a really good start to the season for me. I maybe didn’t expect it to go this well. At the start of the season I set myself a target to try to become a regular in the under-21s and try to get a few starts in the Premier League. “Obviously, I’ve got a few starts already, so it’s been a great start and I can’t thank the players and staff enough for helping me settle in and play as well as I have been.” Thursday was certainly an unforgettable day for Alli and was one which almost got even better. The 19-year-old produced another impressive performance as Tottenham took on Monaco in the Europa League and nearly made the breakthrough in the principality. Alli’s first-half shot was smothered and the ball was instead prodded home by Érik Lamela – who had started the move with some exquisite quick feet – to set Mauricio Pochettino’s side on course for what looked to be another Group J win. However, a late header from the substitute Stephan El Shaarawy meant the encounter ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving Alli ruing what could have been. “It feels like a defeat,” he told Spurs TV. “It was a strong first half from us and maybe we could have seen the game out, finished a few more chances but it wasn’t to be.” The Liverpoolstriker Danny Ings has also admitted he was shocked to earn his first call-up to the England side – and it forced him to cancel a planned family get-together. The 23-year-old, a regular for Gareth Southgate’s under-21 side, has earned a promotion to Roy Hodgson senior squad after scoring twice in his last three matches. Ings has impressed since arriving at Anfield from Burnley but even he did not expect to receive an Englandcall-up so soon. “To be honest I was shocked, I didn’t expect it at all,” he said. “I already had flights booked to see family back home in Southampton in the international break so they got cancelled swiftly. “I got a text in the morning just before I met up with the lads [for Liverpool’s Europa League tie with Sion]. It means the world to me. It was my dream as a kid to get the call and now I’ve got the call it is unbelievable. “It is a huge boost for me as a player and for my career so I’ll take great confidence from that moving forward,” Ings continued. “It means so much to me and my family and hopefully it is something I can build on. It is great that people are recognising your hard work and what you try to do for the team and the fans but it is something I honestly didn’t expect. For me it is about developing every day and I feel I am improving every day here.” [/b] www.theguardian.com/football/2015/oct/02/dele-alli-england-call-up-speechless-danny-ings |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:17pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Oliseh needs time to rebuild Eagles – Ex-Nigeria keeper Festus Abu with [/size]  Willy Okpara Former Nigeria goalkeeper Willy Okpara is backing Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh to build a winning team for the country. But Okpara, who represented the country at Chile ’87 FIFA Under-20 World Cup, says Oliseh needs time to work on the team, calling for support for his former Eagles’ teammate. “Nigerians should give Oliseh a chance to rebuild the team,” the former Orlando Pirates custodian, who was part of the France ’98 World Cup squad, was quoted by theNews Agency of Nigeriaas saying on Thursday. “Oliseh knows most of the players, but bringing them together to blend will take some time.” The Orlando Pirates team manager urged Oliseh to retain some of the old players in the national team for continuity. “I also urge Nigerians to be patient with the coach he knows what he is doing,” the South Africa-based retired footballer added. “I believe strongly that he will give Nigerians a good team, but it may take some time. Okpara is happy Nigerian players are doing well in Europe, saying the national team could benefit from the development with good planning back home. The former ACB Lagos keeper added, “Every coach has his desires of an ideal team. Same applies to Oliseh. He has in mind the kind of players he will use for the Gabon 2017 Africa Cup of Nations and the 2018 World Cup qualifying matches.” Meanwhile, Oliseh has praised his players’ mental strength in their goalless draw against Tanzania in their Gabon 2017 qualifier in Dar es Salaam on September 5 – and their 2-0 defeat of Niger in a friendly affair in Port Harcourt three days later. “What impressed me the most about my team (against Tanzania) was the unity and the way they stayed calm in the dressing room at half time,” the Tunisia ’94 Africa Cup of Nations winner was quoted by supersport.comas saying. “They were the first to realised that things were not going right. They were all trying to find solutions among themselves. “That is something you require the services of a psychologist for.” The former Borussia Dortmund midfielder added, “For us to go further, we must have a style of play. “The philosophy is simple. When we don’t have the ball, we must behave and act in a particular manner and there should also be a way we behave when we have possession of the ball. “The problem we have however is that Nigerians just don’t want us to win. “They want us to win playing good football but that will require time. “I cannot tell Nigerians how long I will need to achieve that but we have a clear objective at this moment. “That objective is qualifying for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.” Nigeria face Congo DR and Cameroon friendly affairs in Belgium later this month. [/b] www.punchng.com/sports/oliseh-needs-time-to-rebuild-eagles-ex-nigeria-keeper/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:33pm On Oct 02, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Obiazor Dreams Big of Eagles Call-up [/size]  Heartland goalkeeper, David Obiazor has vowed to make count positively his third romance with the senior national team. The former El Kanemi Warriors shot stopper is among the 19 domestic professionals named by Super Eagles manager, Sunday Oliseh for the Sunday, October 18 African Nations Championship (CHAN) first fixture final clash against the Etalons of Burkina Faso at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port-Harcourt. Obiazor said he will maximise the third opportunity with the Eagles to cement a permanent shirt for himself. “Of course, this is my third call-up to the Super Eagles, the first was in Calabar then I was learning the rope from the top goalkeepers. “The next was the recent Afcon clash against Tanzania in Dar es Salaam which injury knocked me off and the latest CHAN invitation for the clash against Burkina Faso. “The third stint will be wholly different and a landmark as I’m 100% fit for the demands of camp. “The CHAN will be a different ball game and a bit challenging as it will completely home-based professionals. “Everyone will want to use his skill to the fullest aimed at outdoing and outshining the other ones. “I hope to be an instant standout and firm a permanent shirt as I have waited patiently for the third opportunity. “I have grabbed the rare offer and will make it count positively, ” said Obiazor to supersport.com. The final reverse fixture will hold on Sunday, October 25 in Ouagadougou as the aggregate winners will qualify for the biennial football showpiece in Rwanda. [/b] thenationonlineng.net/obiazor-dreams-big-of-eagles-call-up/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 3:28pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Cameroon, Congo Friendlies: Belgian Embassy Delays Home-Based Eagles’ Visas [/size]  By Johnny Edward and James Agberebi: The home-based Eagles will not be travelling to Belgium on Sunday as scheduled and could miss the international friendly games against Cameroon and DR Congo due to visa hitches. A top source within the Nigeria Football Federation disclosed this to Comple tesportsnigeria.com. The top official from the NFF revealed that the Belgian Embassy did not issue Schengen visas to the players and officials as promised on Friday thereby ruining their trip to Brussels on Sunday. "Unfortunately the Belgian Embassy did not issue the Schengen visas on Friday as promised; they claim no approval yet from their home office," the source told Comple tesportsnigeria.com on Saturday morning. "The trip of the home-based players and some officials will however not be possible on Sunday anymore." The home-based players were expected to join their foreign-based counterparts in Belgium for the games against Cameroon and DR Congo billed for 8 and 11 October. The invited players affected are Chima Akas, Prince Agrrey, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Femi Thomas, Austin Oboroakpo and Paul Onobi. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/cameroon-congo-friendlies-belgian-embassy-delays-home-based-eagles-visas/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 3:30pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Pinnick Condoles With Enyeama As Keeper’s Late Mum Is Buried [/size]  President of Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick, on Saturday praised God for the life of late Mrs Lucy Philip Enyeama, mother of Super Eagles goalkeeper and skipper Vincent Enyeama, who was buried on the day in Urua Inyang, Akwa Ibom State. The NFF said in a press release made available to Comple tesportsnigeria.com that Pinnick was at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Urua Inyang, venue of the burial mass, and charged all those present not to mourn, but to celebrate the life and times of a woman who left behind several children she brought up in the way of the Lord, and who have achieved fame in their chosen careers. “One of those children that our dear mother, Mrs Lucy Enyeama, left behind is Vincent, one of the best goalkeepers in the world for several years now, a three-time FIFA World Cup star and winner of the Africa Cup of Nations, as well as several other accomplishments," Pinnick said. "The Nigeria football fraternity appreciates how much our Captain must be grieving at this period. His mother, Mrs Lucy Philip Enyeama, was a very caring and compassionate parent, who gave her children much love and support during her lifetime. “Dear all, we loved her, but God Almighty loves her much more. And we must take solace in the fact that late Mrs Enyeama left her very bold footprints in the sands of time. Rather than be thrown into sorrow, we must celebrate her for she has been succeeded by children of mettle, and of timbre and calibre.” The burial rites of late Mrs Lucy Enyeama began on Friday with a Night of Songs at the Christ The King College (CKC), Barracks Road, Uyo, and there would be thanksgiving at the same venue on Sunday. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/pinnick-condoles-with-enyeama-as-keepers-late-mum-is-buried/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 3:39pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[size=14pt] Drogba Beats Martins To MLS Award [/size] [img]http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/martins-named-mls-player-month/[/img] By Adeboye Amosu; Didier Drogba has been named Etihad Airways Major League Soccer Player of the month for September, ahead of Nigeria forward, Obafemi Martins, reports Comple tesportsnigeria.com. The Montreal Impact striker claimed the award after amassing 44.89 percent of the total votes. Seattle Sounders' hitman, Martins garnered 25.24 percent of the votes to come second behind the Ivor ian legend. Drogba scored seven goals in his last five games for Montreal in the MLS, while Martins hit the back of the net four times in five outings in September. Martins has scored 14 goals in 18 games for Sounders in the MLS this season. www.completesportsnigeria.com/martins-named-mls-player-month/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 3:42pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] CAF Names Nigerian Refs For Burkina Faso Vs Ethiopia [/size]  The Nigeria Football Federation has confirmed on its official website that Nigerian referees will take charge of a 2016 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifying match between Burkina Faso and Ethiopia. The Confederation of African Football, CAF, had to reschedule the fixture for this weekend one week after the earlier date after peace returned to the French speaking West African country following the recent military coup in the country. According to the Nigeria Football Federation, Alma Nwosu will be the referee for the game in Burkina Faso, with Hilda Nwokocha as first assistant and Mimicry Iyorhe as second assistant. Another Nigerian, Flush Ajar, will be the reserve referee. The NFF announced on its website that Cat's confirmation that the World Cup qualifier will hold in Ouagadougou means that the 2016 African Nations Championship final qualifier between Nigeria and Burkina Faso, slated for the Burkina Faso capital city on October 25, remains unchanged. The match is the third round of the race to the 2016 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Papua New Guinea. The winner of the fixture between Burkina Faso and Ethiopia will face the winner of the match between Equatorial Guinea and Ghana. The NFF website further informed that the winner of the U20 Women World Cup qualifying match between Nigeria and Democratic Republic of Congo will confront the winner between Zambia and South Africa, for Africa’s two slots at the finals in Papua New Guinea. [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/caf-names-nigerian-refs-for-burkina-faso-vs-ethiopia/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 3:57pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Oduamadi Rejoins Milan, Eyes Regular Spot [/size] By Johnny Edward: Super Eagles winger Nnamdi Oduamadi has rejoined AC Milan after he cancelled an agreement with Turkish club Sanliurfaspor, Comple tesportsnigeria.com can report exclusively. The skilful winger signed for Turkish second division side Sanliurfaspor in the summer but could not feature for the club as his International Transfer clearance arrived late. He was joined in Wednesday's training by Kevin Prince Boateng at Milanello. But his return to Milan has been cut short after he was granted compassionate leave following the death of his father, Sir Vincent Oduamadi. Oduamadi told Completesports that he hopes to impress coach Sinisa Mihajlovic that he is good enough to play for Rossoneri having successfully passed his medicals on Tuesday. "It's bitter sweet for me rejoining Milan and also to hear about the demise of my father," he told Comple tesportsnigeria.com exclusively. "I've been granted some days off for the burial of my father and I'm grateful to my club for standing by me." [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/oduamadi-rejoins-milan-eyes-regular-spot/
|
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:04pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Egypt Coach, Cuper Hopes To Win 2017 AFCON [/size]  The national team coach of Egypt Hector Cuper hopes the love and admiration he receives in the north African nation will help him overcome the threat of Nigeria and other countries in the qualification race to the 2017 African Cup of Nations and the 2018 World Cup. Cuper who previously coached La Liga side Villarreal, the former club of Super Eagles striker Ikechukwu Uche said: "Reaching the World Cup and winning the African Cup of Nations is what every Egyptian wants," Egyptian website, kingfut.com quotes Cuper as saying. “I have big faith in this group of players, but we’re nowhere near where we want to be at this time. We need to work hard. There aren’t any divisions in the national team dressing room, and I don’t have issues with any of the Egyptian Premier League managers. "I have talked with Ferreira and Garrido. I’ve coordinated with Hossam El Badry to avoid clashes over player selections.” Cuper further spoke of the passion amongst the fan base. “People in Egypt adore football. I was surprised; I knew that this was the case in Argentina, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, but this was a surprise to me. "This is all in spite of the empty stands. I thank football for introducing me to this country.” “I’ve never felt like a foreigner here, even though I don’t speak the language. Arabic is a very difficult language, but Egyptians are a very helpful people. I’ve seen it firsthand. There’s a lot of love everywhere," he went on. Egypt will play two friendlies against Senegal and Zambia on October 8 and 11, same days Nigeria will take on Congo and Cameroon respectively in Brussels . [/b] www.completesportsnigeria.com/egypt-coach-cuper-hopes-to-win-2017-afcon/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:08pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Anichebe Benched In West Brom Defeat By Crystal Palace [/size]  By Izuchukwu Okosi: Nigeria's Victor Anichebe was an unused substitute Saturday as West Bromwich Albion were defeated 2-0 at Selhurst Park by Crystal Palace. Anichebe has only played one game for the Midlands this season. A vociferous home crowd had to wait until the 68th minute for eccentric winger Bolasie to head home before Cabaye's coolly taken penalty added comfort in the final few minutes. Bolasie scored his first goal in three years as Crystal Palace beat West Bromwich Albion to move within a point of leaders Manchester United. Tony Pulis' West Brom went close to taking an early lead at Selhurst Park when Saido Berahino managed to guide his lob over Wayne Hennessey, but his effort cleared by the crossbar too. After Bolasie fired an effort straight at Boaz Myhill, Wilfried Zaha almost helped the Eagles break the deadlock as he cut inside Chris Brunt before firing a shot narrowly wide. Brunt then missed the target for the Baggies before Yohan Cabaye struck a volley, which flew inches past the post. Palace finally took the lead midway through the second half as Cabaye's pass found Bolasie, who headed past Myhill from close range. The Eagles were then awarded a penalty in the dying minutes as Zaha's ran towards goal before being brought down by Brunt. Cabaye duly stepped up and sent his spot kick beyond the reach of Myhill as Palace move into third place in the Premier League. [/b] [img]http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/anichebe-in-line-for-west-brom-palace-face-off/[/img] www.completesportsnigeria.com/anichebe-benched-in-west-brom-defeat-by-crystal-palace/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:12pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Enyeama devastated by mother’s death By: Sammy Wejinya [/size]  Vincent Enyeama Nigeria international goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama is still “shattered and devastated” following the death of his mother. The Super Eagles captain sat out Nigeria’s last two internationals, against Tanzania and Niger Republic, as a result but is billed to return for October’s fixtures against Congo DR and Cameroon. Enyeama also missed Lille OSC’s Ligue 1 fixture against Montpellier which Les Dogues won 2-0 on Friday. The Nigeria captain is currently in his hometown, Akwa Ibom, where his mother will be laid to rest on Saturday and the 33-year-old took the time to pay his last respects. “I am shattered and devastated because my mother was my pillar. She was full of life and showed no signs of illness before she died so this is quite difficult to take,” the goalkeeper told supersport.com. Enyeama is the most capped footballer in the history of Nigerian football (101 appearances for the Super Eagles) and has played at three Fifa World Cups in 2002, 2010 and 2014. He was also part of the Nigeria side that won the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) title in South Africa in 2013 and he pointed out the role his late mother played in his numerous career successes. “My mother was always there for me handing me important pieces of advice and always praying for me. “In the most difficult moments of my life, she was always there, and there is no way I would have achieved all I have if it wasn’t for her influence in my life,” he said. [/b] ng.supersport.mobi/football/super-eagles/news/151003/Enyeama_devastated_by_mothers_death |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:21pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Nigeria @ 55: Football At Crossroads By Peter Edema [/size]  In Nigeria, sport is the only unifying factor, with the sport not only commanding huge followership but also getting the greatest attention. Nigerians do not remember tribe or tongue when the Super Eagles is playing or when any of the citizens achieve a milestone in any other sport. We celebrate as one. After several failures, Nigeria’s first major success at the international football scene was in 1980 when, on home soil, it won the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time as host. The country repeated the same feat in 1994 in Tunisia, while the third success at that stage was in 2013 in South Africa. However, the team failed to qualify for the 2015 edition of the tournament, even as the qualification process for the 2017 edition is ongoing. Aside winning the Africa Cup of Nations thrice, Nigeria was the first African country to win Olympics football gold medal. This feat was achieved at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996. The U-23 also reached the final of the Olympics football event at the Beijing Olympics in 2008, losing 1-0 to Argentina. On its own, the Super Eagles, after several failures, qualified for the FIFA World Cup in 1994, reaching the second round in that debut appearance. The team also qualified for the next edition that held in France in 1998; it also made it to second round. However, the Eagles crashed out in the first round in 2002 in Japan/Korea, while failing to qualify for the 2006 edition in Germany. In 2010, the Super Eagles qualified for that year’s World Cup in South Africa but failed to go past the group the stage. It was, however, a different story in the 2014 edition in Brazil, as the team reached the second round before bidding the tournament bye with a 2-0 loss to France. In the female category, the Super Falcons has achieved much at the international stage. The team has won seven of the nine Africa Women Championships (AWC) ever staged. It also qualified for the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and making it to the Athens and Beijing Olympic Games. The Flying Eagles has reached the final of the FIFA U-20 World Cup twice, and twice it has failed to win the title. The first was in 1989 in Saudi Arabia, where it lost 2-0 to Portugal. The Flying Eagles also lost 2-1 to Argentina in the final of 2005 edition in Holland. The team has dominated the Africa scene, winning the Africa U-20 nations Cup a record seven times to Egypt’s four and Ghana’s three. The Golden Eaglets has achieved more at the world stage, winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup a record four times in 1985, 1993, 2007 and 2013. Meanwhile, at the domestic scene, successes at the club side level have been one-off thing. After Shooting Stars of Ibadan won the first continental title in 1976 and Rangers retained the trophy the following year, it took the nation over two decades to taste another success at that level. It was Enyimba International of Aba that brought another continental glory to Nigeria with its success at the 2003 CAF Champions League, which it retained the following year. As the country celebrated its 55th independence anniversary last Thursday, there is so much more to be desired as the nation’s football horizon looks bleak. Former FIFA and Confederation of African football (CAF) instructor, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, gave credence to the above in an interview with completesports.com. According to him, “there is nothing to celebrate on the premise that those administering the game have not done enough in the area of development. “I don’t see anything to celebrate about Nigerian football because it’s like when one is just marching on a spot. In fact, I will say the pre-independence era was even better. I am not condemning or overlooking whatever achievement we’ve had since independence. “What I’m not happy about is that we all know that we have the potentials, but we are not utilising them, which makes one sad. I believe the principal objective of every football administration should be the development of the game. But I cannot see any meaningful development programme for Nigerian football. “I remember in those days, immediately after independence, clubs like Stationery Stores, 3SC, Rangers used to pick players from secondary schools. But how is it now? “And on a serious note, there is no reason why Nigeria shouldn’t have won the World Cup if we had gotten our acts right,” lamented. “The world knows we have the talent, but are we doing things right? I am waiting for someone to show me the plan for our development programme for sport.” The biggest problem facing Nigerian football is the misconception of what is Nigerian football. Many equate Nigerian football to Super Eagles, and not the indigenous leagues with the Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) being the head. [/b] .....continue in the next article |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:23pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
.....continue from the last article [b][size=14pt] Nigeria @ 55: Football At Crossroads By Peter Edema Lagos [/size] As a result of this misconception, the various indigenous leagues have been relegated to the background with its attendant consequences. The first result of this misconception is that the private sector, which should engineer the development and growth of the sector as obtained in Europe and other advanced countries of the world, has been red-carded, with the state governments laying strangle hold on all but two of the Premier League clubs. These football clubs have become an avenue for siphoning funds and settling political associates, who are ignorant of the core football administration. As a result of this development, exodus of players to Europe and other parts of the world have become the rule rather than the exception and the country is now reaping from this neglect. Consequently, Nigerian players have found succor in rather obscure leagues around the world; league where talents are in want compared to what obtains in Nigeria. The first implication is that assembling players for the various national teams has become a herculean task. The consequencies of having to invite players from Europe all the time are legion, with the first being the high cost in terms of flight tickets; inadequate time to prepare the team for its engagements and inability to monitor the players on regular basis, among others. FIFA Accredited Players’ Agent, Chris Eseka, said that Nigerian football is a problematic child. “When it (Nigerian football) is supposed to walk, it is crawling and when it is supposed to run, it is walking. “There are good signs because we know what we are supposed to do, where we are supposed to be, but where is the willpower to do those things,” he asked “The willpower is very important. Like I said, the signs are good. Every week, we witness away victories in the league, and also away draws. The win-at-all-cost syndrome is no longer there, an indication that we know where we are supposed to be. We just need to do the right thing.” Eseka said that another problem facing the sector was that Nigerian football had become all-comers’ affairs. “Those who know next to nothing have found themselves in position. We are yet to see football as a professional thing that needs professional administrators. “Until we get people who see football as a professional thing to administer it, then things will not begin to change,” he said. Former Super Eagles captain, Henry Nwosu (MON), believes that Nigerian football is lacking in developmental programme. “I am really not satisfied with the dwindling fortunes of the country’s football. I expected us to have gone beyond this level. Just imagine how the Super Falcons is struggling to qualify for Rio Olympics, while the Super Eagles is still hoping to topple the Pharaohs of Egypt in group G of the Africa Cup of Nations.” On his own, Atlanta Olympic gold medalist, Dosu Joseph, is not happy with the state of Nigerian football. “I feel so saddened with the state of our football. Although I am optimistic that the situation will improve, there is the need to restructure the sector if our football must move forward.” Former Rangers International FC of Enugu player, Stanley Okoronkwo, said that football in the past 55 years had witnessed ups and downs. “Nigeria needs to go back to the grassroots. In the past, the Super Eagles was made up of home base players but today we depend so much on foreign based players,’’ Okoronkwo said. [/b] dailyindependentnig.com/2015/10/nigeria-55-football-at-crossroads/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:28pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Nigeria football is on right track —Okumagba By: IFEANYI EDUZOR [/size] Prince Vincent Okumagba is the National President of Nigeria Football and other Sports Supporters Club. In this interview withIFEANYI EDUZOR, he speaks on the level of the country’s football since independence and plans to make the Supporters Club more innovative. Excerpts Nigeria on Thursday celebrated 55 years as a sovereign nation; are you satisfied with the level of the country’s football since independence? Well I would not say that I am entirely satisfied but we must give glory to God because we have come a long way and there is no doubt that football in Nigeria is developing. We know there have been some changes here and there and I believe that with these changes, the country’s football will do better. Having said this, I want to tell you that I am not entirely satisfied because we are all witnesses to what has been happening in our football in the last two years. After we won the Nations Cup in 2013, I thought we would take it up from there but it seems our football has been nose diving ever since. We were not able to defend the title this year and just recently we had a new coach whom we hope will lead us to the promise land we are all looking forward to. Looking at the present board of the NFF, would you say they are capable of moving the country’s football forward? I believe that the present NFF board led by Amaju pinnick is doing well. When you look at what they are doing with the local league, you will appreciate their desire to reposition our football because when you have a very strong league it will impact positively on your national team which I believe will happen very soon. So I am really impressed with what the board is doing. You can see that the level of our football has gone up and our league matches are now televised live while national team coaches have been sent to London for refresher courses. With these innovations, teams can now win away matches which did not happen in the past. You should also not forget that the current NFF board comprises of young and vibrant men full of ideas and I believe our football will eventually blossom. You have led supporters club to various countries supporting the national teams; can you share with us some of your pains not seeing the Super Eagles play in the last Nations Cup? Well, it is very painful that we were not at the last Nations Cup especially when as defending champion; one would have thought that we are going to defend the title or at least get to the semi-final but unfortunately, we couldn’t qualify. Our non qualification was very painful and caused a lot of pains to our members but I don’t want us to remember it. You know that when your team is not playing well, you won’t be happy or when they are supposed to score goals, they won’t score as was the case when we went to Tanzania, you won’t be happy but this is our country and we have to keep on supporting the team. Although there were a lot of pains, as I said earlier but we as members of the supporters club will continue to support the team whether they are playing well or not. I believe that with our support and commitment of both the players and the coaches, the team will do well. But most importantly, we have to give the coach all the support and enough time to perform before we start judging him so that if at the end he fails, he will take the blame. Nigeria having celebrated 55 years as an independent nation, what are we expecting from the Supporters Club? We at the leadership of the supporters club want everything to be new. You know we have a new government in place that preaches change and as members of the supporters club we must be innovative. We must come up with a new concept that will endure us to the nation and to the football family we are supporting. For us you should expect that we are going to fine tune a lot of things in the supporters club in a very short while which I hope will impact positively on the club...... [/b] nationalmirroronline.net/new/nigeria-football-is-on-right-track-okumagba/ .....continue in the next article |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:30pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
.....continue from the last article [b][size=14pt] Nigeria football is on right track —Okumagba By: IFEANYI EDUZOR [/size] What satisfaction do you and members of the club derive in supporting the national teams? What motivates us is the love we have for our country. We know that we have no other country except Nigeria and that is why when any of the national team is playing we are always happy that our team is doing well. Although it costs us money and time but we believe that‘s what we can offer to our country and we are happy doing it. Supporters club is recognized all over the World and when you wear the Green White Green, it gives you joy. So we are like ambassadors of this country. How would you describe the two friendly matches against Congo and Cameroon slated to be played in Belgium? I am delighted that the football house is organizing high quality friendlies for the Super Eagles which will help the team. When you watch our game in Tanzania you will discover that the Super Eagles were not playing as a team because they have not actually played together. The two friendly matches is a welcome development because it is against quality opposition. Both countries are forces to be reckoned with in African football and playing it at Stade Van Roy in Belgium is a very good idea. I believe it will help us and am going to be there. What is your message to the Super Eagles? My message is that they should be united and play well to make the country happy. They should realize that when they are in the field of play, they are representing about 170 million Nigerians. They should put aside their personal differences and take a cue from the supporters club which at 57 and older than Nigeria is one big and happy family. Though we came from different diverse cultures with different languages and religion but we are Nigerians and that is what Supporters Club preaches which we want the players to imbibe. [/b] nationalmirroronline.net/new/nigeria-football-is-on-right-track-okumagba/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:39pm On Oct 03, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Vincent Enyeama buries mother [/size]  The goalkeeper’s late parent was laid to rest in Akwa Ibom on Saturday with a strong delegation led by NFF president Pinnick in attendance Nigeria captain Vincent Enyeama buried his late mother Lucy on Saturday in his hometown of Urua Inyang, Akwa Ibom State. The late Mrs Enyeama died in September as the Super Eagles prepared to take on Tanzania in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, which made Vincent unable to show up in camp. The Nigeria Football Federation was represented by a strong delegation led by its president Mr Amaju Pinnick, who extolled the values that the goalkeeper’s mother cherished in her lifetime. “One of those children that our dear mother, Mrs Lucy Enyeama, left behind is Vincent, one of the best goalkeepers in the world for several years now, a three –time FIFA World Cup star and winner of the Africa Cup of Nations, as well as several other accomplishments,” Pinnick said. “The Nigeria football fraternity appreciates how much our Captain must be grieving at this period. His mother, Mrs Lucy Philip Enyeama was a very caring and compassionate parent, who gave her children much love and support during her lifetime.” NFF President At V.Enyeama's Late Mother's Burial at Urua INYANG, Akwa Ibom State.May her Gentle soul Rest In Peace pic.twitter.com/hXvGeRSF23— The NFF (@thenff) October 3, 2015 The burial rites of late Mrs Lucy Enyeama began on Friday with a Night of Songs at the Christ The King Church (CKC), Barracks Road, Uyo, and there would be thanksgiving at the same venue on Sunday. Also at Saturday’s burial mass were the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, Deputy Governor Mr. Moses Ekpo (MFR) and the Secretary to the State Government, Sir Etekamba Umoren. There were also NFF Executive Committee member, Chief Felix Anyansi-Agwu, former Super Eagles’ skipper Joseph Yobo and the President-General of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Dr. Rafiu Oladipo, among other eminent personalities. [/b] m.goal.com/x/en-ng/news/4093/nigeria/2015/10/03/15977032/vincent-enyeama-buries-mother |
(1) (2) (3) ... (30) (31) (32) (33) (34) (35) (36) ... (161) (Reply)
Difference Btw Handicap 0:1 And Handicap 1:0 / Official NPFL Thread. (nigerian Professional Football League) / Are World Wrestling Entertainment Fights Real or Just Acting?
(Go Up)
| Sections: politics (1) business autos (1) jobs (1) career education (1) romance computers phones travel sports fashion health religion celebs tv-movies music-radio literature webmasters programming techmarket Links: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) Nairaland - Copyright © 2005 - 2024 Oluwaseun Osewa. All rights reserved. See How To Advertise. 202 |