16 Players In Super Eagles Uyo Camp, Eight To Arrive Tuesday Ahead Zambia Clash
By Johnny Edward In Uyo




17 Super Eagles players have arrived the Ibom Le Meridian Hotel ahead of Saturday’s 2018 World Cup qualifier against Zambia at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Completesportnigeria.com reports.

Nigeria captain, John Mikel Obi, Odion Ighalo, Ahmed Musa, Leon Balogun, Shehu Abdulahi, Mikel Agu, Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi were the second batch of players who arrived later on Monday.

The early birds in camp on Monday were Oghenekaro Etebo, Anthony Nwakaeme, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, John Ogu, Elderson Echiejile and Dele Ajiboye.

Completesportnigeria.com also gathered that the two standby players, Aremu Afiz and Ifeanyi Ifeanyu, for the game are also in camp.

Expected later today (Tuesday) are Alex Iwobi, Victor Moses, Ola Aina, Daniel Akpeyi, Ogenyi Onazi, William Troost-Ekong, Moses Simon, Uche Agbo.

Nigeria lead Group B with ten points from four games, three ahead of Zambia.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/74780-2/

This fine lad and "team of the week" be like 7&8.... looolll... a true rising pearl in the fullback and wingback positions. Keep Soaring Young Super Eagle Aina


Aina Makes Championship Team Of The Week
By James Agberebi



Super Eagles and Hull City defender Ola Aina has been included in the whoscored’s English Championship Team of the Week.

Aina’s inclusion in the Team of the Week is as a result of his impressive performance for Hull City who thrashed Birmingham 6-1 in a Championship clash at the KCOM Stadium on Saturday.
Aina, a loanee from Chelsea, played the entire duration of the match for Hull City.

Three of Aina’s Hull teammates, Jarrod Bowen, former Arsenal and Sunderland midfielder Sebastian Larseon and Kamil Grosicki were also listed.

Other players who made the list are Sheffield Wednesday’s keeper Joe Wildsmith, Derby County’s defender Curtis Davies, Sheffield Wednesday’s duo Adam Reach (defender) and Gary Hooper (striker), Ryan Bennett (striker) and Romain Saiss (midfielder) from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Barnsley’s striker Tom Bradshaw.

He is expected to join his Super Eagles teammates in Uyo for Saturday’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chipolopolo of Zambia.


Whoscored English Championship Team of the Week:


GOALKEEPER
Joe Wildsmith (Sheffield Wednesday)


DEFENDERS
Ola Aina (Hull City)
Curtis Davies (Derby County)
Ryan Bennett (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Adam Reach (Sheffield Wednesday)


MIDFIELDERS
Jarrod Bowen (Hull City)
Sebastian Larsson (Hull City)
Romain Saiss (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Kamil Grosicki (Hull City)


STRIKERS
Tom Bradshaw (Barnsley)
Gary Hooper (Sheffield)


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/aina-makes-championship-team-week/

Nigeria Vs Zambia: Akwa Ibom Govt. Promise Free Internet Service At Godswill Akpabio Stadium




Akwa Ibom State Government has promised journalists and football fans free internet service inside the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Uyo on Saturday when the Super Eagles take on the. Chipolopolo of Zambia in a crucial 2018 FIFA World, Cup qualifier, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

The previous three home games of the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium had been rocked by reports that mobile networks signals jammed at the venue when special dignitaries got into the stadium.

But that is expected to change this Saturday.

According to a statement from the Akwa Ibom State

Commissioner for Sports Monday Uko through his media aide, Amos Ebuka, the state government will make available access codes for free internet service.

“There will be free internet services available to fans at Goodwill Akpabio stadium during the Nigeria Vs Zambia match sponsored by Kalex Solutions Ltd,” the statement reads

“Access codes for the free internet will be embedded in a closed panel on seat covers which will be used to cover seats at the Stadium.

“Another great innovation by Akwa Ibom State Government and Akwa Ibom State Football Association.”


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/akwa-ibom-govt-promise-free-internet/

Nigeria: Is Ahmed Musa Still Indispensable to the Super Eagles?
By Solomon Fowowe

Nigeria's Ahmed Musa

Ahmed Musa probably cannot have it any worse in this most testing period, his wilderness experience. Crossing over to Leicester, then awash with the title-defending champions from icy-cold Eastern Europe was meant to signal an upward curve for Musa but the move has started a downward spiral that could hurt his indispensability to the Super Eagles.

Ahmed Musa has been a main feature in the Super Eagles fold ever since he made his debut under Augustine Eguavoen as a fresh-faced 17-year-old in the match against Madagascar. In his oversized jersey that looked like it bore a hidden jet-pack, he made his 15-minute cameo replacing Mikel Obi, he almost got Nigeria a third goal two minutes before the end of regulation time but his shot dragged wide of the post. Ever since, he has not missed any competitive fixture for Nigeria.

Things have been slightly different though this past year, the forward has started just one competitive game for the Super Eagles since he made the move away from Russia: a dead rubber against Tanzania after the hopes of Africa Cup of Nations qualification had been dashed following the loss to Egypt in Alexandria.

Ahmed Musa no longer has the automatism of a starter and was an unused substitute in a competitive game for the second time in his Super Eagles career against Cameroon at Yaounde.
The other time was as far back as 2013 in the quarterfinals of the AFCON against Ivory Coast. The winger has featured for less than 30 minutes in all of Nigeria's 2018 World Cup qualifying matches.

There is sympathy to be had for Musa's case, a typical instance of a transfer move gone wrong. Trading Moscow for Leicester in hindsight is a fail. It is difficult to fault the ambition of the 24-year old, calculatedly taking steps forward from when he started at the Aminchi Football Academy. His career has seen him break records in the NPFL with Kano Pillars, impress at the Eredivisie with VVV Venlo before making the move to CSKA Moscow when he felt ready.
After 125 games and 42 goals, Leicester City came calling with a fee that matched CSKA's valuation of their forward, a then, club record £16.6 million after the forward had scored a career best of 18 goals in 44 appearances.


Who'd have known Claudio Ranieri who seemed hung up on his talents was going to get sacked after Leicester City had done the unbelievable. Musa played in 19 Premier League games scoring two goals while Ranieri was at the helm. Immediately after Craig Shakespeare took over as caretaker manager, Musa did not make Leicester's matchday squad for two consecutive games.

Musa would only feature three times again in Foxes' remaining 13 Premier League games playing for less than an hour.
The lag in playing time was certain to have an effect.

International football though is a delicate beast needing a bit of subjectivity, especially for sides not exactly bursting at the seam with top level talent. For a player who is obviously more talented than most his country has to offer, the country will still persist with him even if his playing time at his club side leaves a lot to be desired.

If that were the case for Musa, then, there is no discourse to be had per his call-up but the current realities in the Super Eagles allows for more objectivity with the criteria for selection including playing time and form.

Alex Iwobi for example, despite his sparse minutes with Arsenal, will get a call-up because of his talents and unique skill-set in the Super Eagles. But same cannot be said with Musa whose searing pace on the wings has been replaced with Moses Simon's directness, and more-controlled running. His place in the squad also seems to impede the ascent of Henry Onyekuru who is more naturally talented than Ahmed Musa.

Onyekuru had a brilliant last season and has begun this season in like fashion with Anderlecht, scoring his fifth goal of the season but the former Eupen winger has the Musa-shaped shadow cast over him. Thus, he is only good enough for the standby list while on the other hand, Ahmed Musa has not featured in a league game this season with Leicester City. Against Bournemouth in the weekend, Musa was not good enough for the bench as compatriots Wilfred Ndidi and Kelechi Iheanacho featured in Shakespeare's side.

The winger has not been in any of Leicester's matchday squad in the English Premier League this season. It was depressing to see the 62-time capped Super Eagle bursting his lungs in the development squad against Chelsea U23 while his teammates had a crunch tie the next day against Liverpool in the League. The former Super Eagles captain was sent to the U23 squad to gain match fitness due to a lack of playing time.

For the Zambia game, it is all cast in stone, Musa is in the squad and will probably get a late cameo but going forward, the difficult, slightly awkward and uncomfortable conversation about Musa's invitation is meant to be heard.


Source: http://allafrica.com/stories/201710030029.html

UNCONVINCING STRIKING OPTIONS JUSTIFY NFF'S TAMMY ABRAHAM APPROACH
By Solace Chukwu, Correspondent





While it now looks unlikely that the Swansea City striker will be turning out for Nigeria, trying to get him was the right idea.


International football takes centre stage this week, with so much still to be decided. For Nigeria, a victory over surprise package Zambia is what is required to wrap up qualification for next year's World Cup in Russia.

The widespread assumption is that early qualification will allow Gernot Rohr to focus on experimentation, and while that is true, it is also counterintuitive to a degree, especially considering even the starting XI remains a work in progress.
Nowhere is this more apparent than upfront.


Rohr has so far used three different centre-forwards, and only Odion Ighalo has started there more than once. He distinguished himself over both legs against Cameroon, and is now arguably in pole position for the role, but focus on the team's defensive aspects has masked the fact that, beyond Ighalo, the pool is a lot murkier.



This would explain somewhat the desire of the NFF to rope in Swansea forward Tammy Abraham : mobile and aggressive, he offers very useful traits. While, of course, the slightly impolitic nature of the overture has led to that door shutting, it is understandable, through the haze of regret and sour grapes, that he was approached.

There is not, as some would imagine, a veritable glut of goalscoring options otherwise. Ighalo himself had been out of the national team frame since Rohr's first competitive game in charge – the lone-goal victory over Tanzania – before roaring back into contention on the back of good form in China.

For the first World Cup qualifier, Brown Ideye played upfront, and was instrumental in a 2-1 victory on the road (incidentally, against Zambia) to set the ball rolling. He would then drop out, as injury and later on moving clubs saw him relegated.



Kelechi Iheanacho led the line against Algeria, but only in the loosest sense of the term, offering little by way of genuine incision when required to play so far forward. He has however seen his career plummet since then: ostracized and then kicked to the curb by Manchester City following a start that hinted at more, and now struggling to find his feet at Leicester City.



In any case, he seemed even then to lack the agility and physicality to truly impress himself on a game and earn the right to play when up against centre-backs, a fact that was painfully obvious when the Super Eagles lost their first (and only) game so far under Rohr to South Africa.

It is inconvenient to admit, and unfair to pick on him, but Iheanacho is the poster boy for a new, vaunted generation of Super Eagles forwards, the likes of which include Isaac Success, Taiwo Awoniyi and Victor Osimhen.

They have all not quite lived up to their potential so far, and that for varying reasons: Success, for instance, has battled with fitness for almost the entirety of his time at Watford, and has not started five games on the trot at any time. He is now on the outs, serially missing from matchday squads even while fit.

Awoniyi is only now starting to look like he belongs at senior club level with Mouscron, while Osimhen has yet to even get going at Wolfsburg. It would take a great deal of optimism to see how they would be useful within the next nine months.




The contrast with Abraham, starting and influencing games in the Premier League, is jarring.

Nor, for that matter, can we consider those whom Rohr has included as sure things. Tony Nwakaeme is a solid option, but the German coach missed a trick by not giving him any minutes over two legs against Cameroon, and we are none the wiser as to his opinion of the Israel-based forward.


Larry Kayode perhaps did his chances more harm than good uprooting himself to move to Girona by way of Manchester City; sure, the La Liga is a more competitive environment, but everyone knows that, in a World Cup year, it is stability and consistency that counts. Predictably, he has been unable to make any sort of impact in Catalonia...yet.

Clearly then, the problem is not so much that there are no chances, but that none of the plausible options have made a strong enough case.

While the worry over going after Abraham was that he would take up a spot meant for someone else, the truth is a lot less encouraging: like the hungry Jesus found, the fig tree, for all its attractiveness and promise, has yielded nothing.


Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/nff-right-to-approach-tammy-abraham/1addioh6hezxi1c3htn6oc7sd2

Happy Birthday To Kelechi Iheanacho, one of Nigeria's Super Eagles Top young players. Keep shining Starkid... #TheAlienKid

I have selected just two of his Strikes for the Super Eagles to recall a glimpse of his undoubted potentials and growing class.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KB7qaHRKeVE



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3lab2N70P7I (inclusive of Iwobi's sweet strike).

I truly hope OGN can keep mute about our Closed sessions holding on Thursday and Friday. This game is so very important. Well... if they don't keep mute... then trust that I won't report it here. I won't post any Revelations about the Super Eagles Closed door training sessions... let us respect the spirit of privacy and secrecy ahead of the build-up to a match of this magnitude


Exclusive – Chippa United Ace Akpeyi In Line To Start Ahead Of Ezenwa Against Zambia




Coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria Gernot Rohr appears to have handed back the number one spot of the Super Eagles to Chippa United ace Daniel Akpeyi, according to scoop gathered by Owngoalnigeria.com.

Injury ruled Akpeyi out of the Eagles last World Cup 2018 Qualifiers games against Cameroon, with Ikechukwu Ezenwa manning the post in both games but Akpeyi is back to full fitness and in line to return as the first choice of the team.

Akpeyi has been splendid between the post for Chippa United in their last three games in the Premier South Africa League (PSL), with two Man of the Match award to his name.

On the other hand, Ezenwa has been on holiday since captaining the Nigerian B team to a second place finish at the WAFU tournament in Ghana, a tournament which he was voted the best player despite conceding four goals in the final against Ghana.

A decision on who will start will become clear in the coming days when the team begin their tactical drills for the October 7 game, which Nigeria need a win to progress to the World Cup 2018 in Russia.


**Ade Emmanuel

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/03/exclusive-chippa-united-ace-akpeyi-in-line-to-start-ahead-of-ezenwa-against-zambia/

Super Eagles Coach Rohr Assures Omeruo – You’re Still Part Of My Plans But……



Kenneth Omeruo international career is far from over according to coach of the Super Eagles Gernot Rohr, who for the second time running omitted the defender from his squad.

Omeruo was on standby in the team for the game against Cameroon, but the defender was missing entirely from the list for Saturday’s game against Zambia in Uyo.

Presently out on loan at Turkish side Kasimpasa from Chelsea, he has played in their last two games and according to Rohr his performance will be monitored by the crew for invitation to future games of the team.


” You can’t call every player at the same time. Kenneth (Omeruo) is a very good defender but at the moment he is not with us because he is settling down at his new team in Turkey. We are happy he is back playing competitive football “, Rohr exclusively told Owngoalnigeria.com.

” He is still part of our plans but his performance for his new team will be assessed before he is called up to the team. At the moment my focus is on the defenders with us at the moment”. Rohr concluded.



**Maxwell Pius


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/03/super-eagles-coach-rohr-assures-omeruo-youre-still-part-of-my-plans-but/

Odion Ighalo Will Put Nigeria Success ahead of Personal Glory


Changchun Yatai F.C. striker Odion Ighalo has emphasized that he will make sure the Super Eagles qualify for their sixth World Cup ahead of personal glory when they face off with Zambia on Saturday.
The former Watford man was one of the shining lights in Nigeria's games against Cameroon in September.

Ighalo was on target in the 4-0 rout of the African champions on match day three and played through the pain barrier in Yaounde after picking up an injury in Uyo.

''China is fine. First and foremost the game against Zambia is about teamwork,'' said Ighalo to allnigeriasoccer.com .

''We pray to win the game, the most important thing is to win the game on Saturday. It is not about personal glory.''

Ighalo bagged an assist in Nigeria's 1-1 draw with Cameroon on September 4 when he teed up Moses Simon in the 30th minute.

The ex-Flying Eagles skipper is enjoying a fine season with Changchun Yatai, netting 12 goals from 24 appearances.


**Kekere Asuquo Nkop

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24863

Alex Iwobi shows promise at Arsenal as Mesut Ozil exit looms
By Andrew Mangan


While the future of Alexis Sanchez was a high profile story throughout the summer, and indeed one which continues to make headlines even after the transfer window has closed, the situation of his teammate Mesut Ozil was a much lower key affair.

This despite the fact their contractual circumstances are exactly the same. Both players have deals which run out next summer, and neither has shown any inclination to renew and prolong their stay in North London.

There were no shortage of suitors for the Chilean, with Manchester City, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea all linked with his signature. However, there seemed to be very little interest in the German beyond some fanciful speculation over a move to Turkey.

We'll never know if Arsenal would have been tempted to sell, but chances are if a bid had come in it would have been considered. There have been no talks about a contract extension since last March, and at this point it's widely believed that the 28-year-old will see out his Arsenal deal, allowing him to leave on a free next summer.


It means that Arsene Wenger has to start thinking about life without Ozil, and how best to replace his qualities in the side. His replacement in the team for Sunday's 2-0 win over Brighton was Alex Iwobi, a Nigerian international of great promise and a product of the Arsenal academy.

There were interesting parallels between the manager's postmatch comments about the 20-year-old and what he wants from him, and what's he's said about Ozil over the years. While acknowledging his creativity, he regularly challenged him to score more goals, looking for him to hit double figures -- something he achieved for the first time last season.

Following Sunday's 2-0 win over Brighton, Wenger told reporters that Iwobi's goal should be the first of a similar target.

"A player like him must score 10 goals and he must as well give between six and 10 assists, and that's what I want from him," he said.


It looks like the Arsenal manager is considering Iwobi as the kind of player who can produce some of what Ozil does, and it will be particularly interesting to see how the German is treated as the season progresses.

If, previously, Wenger was cautious or unwilling to leave him out of the team for fear of upsetting his star man -- particularly at a time when he was trying to convince him to sign a new deal -- that may no longer be a consideration. Ozil's reluctance to extend his contract changes the dynamic considerably.

There has long been a school of thought that for all his talent and creative brilliance, there are certain games for which he is a bad fit. Generally speaking, they're the ones away from home against the other members of the top six.

Arsenal's record in these games is pretty dismal, but the recent 0-0 draw away at Stamford Bridge showed a marked improvement from the 4-0 defeat at Anfield, and tellingly the German was not in the team because of injury. Iwobi was again asked to deputise and his hard-working performance helped contribute to a much better Arsenal display away from home.

The common complaint is that Ozil is lazy, but that's a facile argument. He often covers more ground than any other player, he makes more sprints than most, but the reality of it is that he's just not defensively astute enough for certain games. You can get away with it on days when Arsenal dominate possession against so-called weaker opposition, but this flaw becomes much more obvious against teams who are better able to exploit it.

There's no shame in it, by the way. Ozil is a wonderful talent, but not every player can be strong in every area. You wouldn't ask a tall central defender to play as a winger and expect him to do what Marc Overmars did, and in much the same way you have to accept that your defensive weaknesses might be greater when Ozil plays in certain fixtures.

Until now, Wenger has been reluctant to address what is a fairly obvious issue, and while he'd surely prefer a situation in which Ozil wanted to stay, this makes his life easier in some ways. Not least because he has a young player with a lot of potential to do the job he needs somebody to do.

There have been cases down the years -- Sylvain Wiltord and Edu spring to mind -- where players in the final year of their contracts find their roles diminished. Ozil's quality means it's not likely to be as pronounced in his case, but over the course of the campaign, it wouldn't be a surprise to see the Arsenal manager start to prioritise the future at his expense.


Source: http://kwese.espn.com/football/club/arsenal/359/blog/post/3219209/alex-iwobi-shows-promise-at-arsenal-as-mesut-ozil-exit-looms?device=featurephone

Ogenyi Onazi on #NGAZAM on October 7


"We will give it all it takes as far as football is concerned. We will play like everything depends on us and pray like everything depends on God.
We will not be distracted. We will get our three points on Saturday".

Onazi is Vice-Captain of the Super Eagles.

Zambian Star Silwimba Promise Uyo Shocker For Super Eagles
By Kayode Ogundare in Accra




If Nigerians think next Saturday’s World Cup qualifying game against Zambia will be a stroll in the park, particularly given the fact that the Super Eagles won the reverse fixture last October in Ndola, then they are in for a shocker according to a member of the Chipolopolo squad currently in a training camp in Ghana ahead of the match.

Simon Silwimba, who’s seen his good form for domestic league club Zesco United rewarded with a spot on the national team, is confident that the Chipolopolo can shock Nigeria at home to claim the sole ticket from Group and make it to the World Cup in Russia.

Speaking exclusively to completesportsnigeria.com in Accra, the 22-year old said:

“This is football and anything can happen. The fact that Nigeria are playing at home does not mean they will automatically win. If the visiting team is better than you on the day, you will be shocked before you know it and that’s what we are planning for your team.”


Silwimba, an unused substitute in the reverse fixture in Ndola last October when Nigeria won 2-1 with goals from Alexander Iwobi and Kelechi Iheanacho before Collins Mbesuma reduced the tally in the second half, claimed that the Chipolopolo had undergone such drastic changes that it will be unrealistic to judge the outcome of the fortcoming game by the result of the first match.

“We have improved and changed since the last time we played Nigeria and it will be impossible to predict the outcome of this game by looking at the first leg result. What Nigeria did to us in Ndola we also can do it to them in Uyo,” he said.

The player who’s grown in influence in the team and played both games against Algeria is expected to be in coach Wedson Nyirenda’s starting eleven when the Chipolopolo files out in Uyo on October 7th in what could effectively be the ticket decider.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/zambian-star-silwimba-promise-uyo-shocker-for-super-eagles/

NFF, Leicester, Osimhen Celebrate Iheanacho At 21
By James Agberebi



The Nigeria Football Federation, Premier League club Leicester City and Wolfsburg forward Victor Osimhen have congratulated Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho who turned 21 today (Tuesday), Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

Celebrating the former Golden Eaglets and Flying Eagles star, the NFF, Leicester and Osimhen took to their respective Twitter handles to send their birthday wishes.

The NFF tweeted: “Happy birthday Super Eagles forward Kelechi. Keep shining!”

Leicester wrote on their handle: “Kelechi Iheanacho turns 21 today. Have a good one.”

And on his part Osimhen tweeted: “Happy birthday bro. Wish you long life and prosperity. More power.”

Born in 1996, Iheanacho was a member of the Golden Eaglets squad that won the FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates in 2013 where he was named Most Valuable Player.

Iheanacho was names CAF Most Promising Talent of the Year in 2013 and 2016 and also made CAF Team of the Year also in 2016.

He won the English League Cup with Manchester City in the 2015/2016 season.

He is currently in Uyo ahead of the Super Eagles’ FIFA 2018 World Cup Russia qualifier against Chipolopolo of Zambia on October 7.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nff-leicester-osimhen-celebrate-iheanacho-21/

Eagles To Hold First Training Session At 5:30pm Today
By Johnny Edward in Uyo



The Super Eagles of Nigeria will hold their first training session today at the practice pitch of the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Uyo at 5:30pm ahead of their crucial clash against Zambia on Saturday, Completesportnigeria.com reports.

The three time African Champions had a light work out around the premises of the Ibom Le Meridian Hotel in Uyo Tuesday (Today) morning before returning to their respective rooms.
All the players in camp took part in the session.

Meanwhile, the remaining players expected for the game will arrive in camp later today.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles lead Group B with ten points three above second placed Zambia. Other teams in the group, Cameroon and Algeria are already eliminated.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/eagles-hold-first-training-session-530pm/

Super Eagles Camp latest:

#NGAZAM.

Uche Agbo, Ogenyi Onazi, Daniel Akpeyi, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Ola Aina and Chidozie Awaziem have all arrived camp just in time for the First "Open Training session" which starts in couple of minutes from now.


The report came via NG Super Eagles twitter handle over 45 mins ago....

Victor Moses yet to be sighted going by the report. Hopefully he lands soon enough.

Kalusha: Chipolopolo Can Beat ‘World Class Super Eagles’ In Uyo
By Hanifat Mustapha




The former President of the Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) kalusha Bwalya is confident Chipolopolo can upset the Super Eagles come Saturday. He believes Coach Wedson Nyirenda and his players have enough quality to defeat Nigeria in the second leg of the ongoing Russia 2018 World Cup qualifier at the Godwill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.

According to Zambianfootball.co.zm , the 1988 African Footballer of the year believes the Zambian strikers are strong enough to break the Super Eagles’ defence to win in Uyo and bag the vital three points.

“I feel that Zambia has done exceptionally well especially in the last two games against Algeria. Last year’s match at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium between the two sides and the result is now history and will not have an effect in this Saturday’s game,” Zambianfootball.co.zm quotes Kalusha as saying.


“This Saturday game will be a high-pressure match and I feel playing at home, Nigeria will be more under pressure. This can work to Zambia’s advantage. I have always had great respect for the Super Eagles and its array of world-class players but if there is a team that can beat Nigeria in Nigeria its Chipolopolo.


“This is a last throw of the dice. It is a must-win match. The team has done exceptionally well. The result against Algeria was a big psychological win and Zambia always rises to the occasion,when needed most. Notwithstanding , it is important to acknowledge the value of the Nigeria encounter and that it is the most important game Zambia will play in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers.”

“A team needs to score a goal in any game and this team has potential goal-scorers. The young guns have brought a new dimension to the team. Never has the experience of goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene, Stoppila Sunzu’s marshaling of the defensive line, Enock Mwepu emergence as a midfield brain with the finishing of Patson Daka upfront been required than in this crucial match.

“I expect a solid entertaining match with end to end action. If you look at all the African Groups in this WC FIFA 2018 qualifying series, coming into the last 2 games, each team is fighting for those important valuable points.”

The Chipolopolo bagged a 1-1 away draw agianst Cameroon, then defeated Algeria home and away to amass seven points in the Group B.


The Super Eagles defeated Zambia 2-1 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola in the first leg which was played on 9 October 2016.
Gernot Rohr’s team then thrashed Cameroon 4-0 at the Godwill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo and was held to a 1-1 draw at the Stade Omnisports Ahmadou Ahidjo, Yaounde to top the Group with 10 points.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/kalusha-chipolopolo-can-beat-world-class-super-eagles-‎in-uyo/

Opponents Watch


EXCLUSIVE: Zambia Captain Mweene Sits Out As 18 Chipolopolo Stars Train Tuesday Morning In Accra
By Kayode Ogundare in Accra



First-choice goalkeeper and captain of the Zambian national team Kennedy Mweene may have sparked injury worries after joining up with his colleagues at their Ghana training camp on Monday night but missed Tuesday’s morning session as 18 other players sweated under the watchful eyes of coach Wedson Nyirenda at the Lizzy Sports Centre in East Legon, Accra.
Mweene, late arrival on Monday night alogside Turkey-based midfielder Chisamba Lungu joined camp to bring the total number of foriegn-based players to six while three others – Russia-based Patson Daka, Enoch Mwepu (FC Liefering) and Edward Chilufya from Sweden – are still expected to join up.
While others where on the pitch, with the two other goalkeepers Toaster Nsabata and Allan Chibue being drilled, Mweene was alone with a backroom staff jogging lightly on the sidelines.



When asked by completesportsnigeria.com if he has fitness concerns due to his inability to train, Mweene shrugged it off as nothing important.

“I’m okay, no problem at all,” he said before walking away to join his teammates in the locker-room.
Other players looked sharp and seemed in high spirits as the crucial game in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital draws near.

Nigeria lead the group with 10points, three ahead of the Zambians who need a win to keep their hopes of a first-ever World Cup appearance alive. Nigeria, on the other hand, are gunning for a sixth appearance at the World Cup since making their debut in 1994.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/exclusive-zambia-captain-mweene-sits-18-chipolopolo-stars-train-tuesday-morning-accra/

Echiejile: Super Eagles Will Bag Another Massive Win In Uyo Against Zambia
By Johnny Edward in Uyo




Sivasspor defender, Elderson Echiejile has expressed his optimism that the Super Eagles will beat Zambia in this
weekend’s 2018 World Cup qualifier, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Saturday, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

Echiejile is poised for another starting berth on Saturday for the three time African Champions. He says that Nigeria players are in top spirit ahead of the crucial game.

“I am so excited and happy to be part of the squad for the Zambia cracker and I’m confident we will pick another massive victory,” Echiejile told Completesportsnigeria.com here in Uyo.

“Everyone’s dream is to see us fly Nigeria’s flag at the World Cup in Russia next year. With hard work, determination and with the support of Nigerians, we will beat Zambia to qualify.”

Echiejile adds: “I spoke with my teammates. They are all in high spirit and willing to give their all whenever called upon. We are mentally and physically fit as we move closer to the match day.”


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/echiejile-super-eagles-will-bag-another-massive-win-uyo-zambia/

Super Eagles Only Out-And-Out Left Back Suffers Training Ground Injury





Allnigeriasoccer.com understands that Monaco loanee Elderson Echiejile could not complete the Super Eagles first training session held at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Tuesday evening.

The left back twisted his ankle as he tried to stop the ball during the first practice game that involved four players on each side, and laid on the pitch injured before he was attended to by Super Eagles medical team.
Manager Gernot Rohr had to call for a break and Echiejile was replaced by Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi when the session resumed.

For about twenty minutes, an ice pack was wrapped around the defender's ankle before it was removed by the physiotherapist.

The severity of Echiejile's ankle injury has not been determined yet as he managed to wear his boots and took part in a stretching exercise after the second practice game.

Whilst Echiejile is the only out-and-out left back named by Rohr in his 23-man roster, Ola Aina, who was not sighted at today's training session, can also operate in that role, though he is right-footed and predominantly thrives as a right back.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24873

Exclusive: Chelsea Hoping To Beat Barnsley, Bolton & Owls To Signing Of Nigerian Wonderkid




Premier League champions Chelsea are working on a deal to sign talented Nigerian striker Victor Adeboyejo but face competition from EFL Championship clubs.

Adeboyejo, who is a free agent after rejecting the chance to extend his contract with Leyton Orient in the summer, has been invited to train with the Blues, with a view to being offered a contract.

''Victor Adeboyejo is currently training with Chelsea, he started training with their U23 team last week,'' a top source close to Victor Adeboyejo told allnigeriasoccer.com .

''Barnsley, Bolton Wanderers and Sheffield Wednesday are also interested in signing him.''

Born in Ibadan, Adeboyejo impressed while on trial with Barnsley in August, scoring against Charlton Athletic, Colchester United and Queens Park Rangers (2) in the Professional Development League 2.

The 19-year-old represented the youth teams of Arsenal, AFC Wimbledon and Charlton Athletic before he was snapped up by Leyton Orient.

He enjoyed loan spells at Royston Town, Hemel Hempstead Town, Heybridge Swifts, Dulwich Hamlet, Soham Town Rangers and Margate while he was on the books of The O's.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24871

IWOBI AND MOSES MISS NIGERIA TRAINING AHEAD OF ZAMBIA CLASH
By Shina Oludare




Gernot Rohr’s men began preparation for the World Cup qualifier against their Chipolopolo without the England based professionals


Chelsea’s Victor Moses and Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi were missing in Tuesday evening’s training as Nigeria prepare for their crunch encounter against Zambia in Uyo.

Iwobi, who was on target in Arsenal’s 2-0 victory against Brighton and Hoves over the weekend, was given permission to sit out of Super Eagles’ drill by Gernot Rohr – as he arrived late afternoon.

Moses, on the other hand, is yet to arrive camp despite his no-show in Chelsea’s 1-0 defeat to Manchester City at Stamford Bridge.

Moses Simon, Chidozie Awaziem, and Ola Aina completed the list of players who did not warm up with the three-time African champions.

Mikel Obi, Odion Ighalo, Anthony Nwakaeme, Leon Balogun, William Troost Ekong, John Ogu, Oghenekaro Etebo and Ikechukwu Ezenwa were part of the session.

Others include Elderson Echiejile, Daniel Akpeyi, Wilfred Ndidi, Uche Agbo, Mikel Agu, Dele Ajiboye, Ahmed Musa Ifeanyi Ifeanyi, Aremu Afeez and Kelechi Iheanacho.














Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/iwobi-and-moses-miss-nigeria-training-ahead-of-zambia-clash/rwx2j8pvjlzu1nff6d7yrr9vs

18 Eagles In Training – How Eagles First Training Session Ahead Of Zambia Clash Unfolded



The senior national team of Nigeria had their first training session at the training pitch of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Owngoalnigeria.com was there to cover what was their first training session ahead of the game against Zambia.

It started with the players doing a little bit of jogging and stretches to loosen up a bit, before the goalkeepers went their separate ways to train with the goalkeeper trainer.

While Daniel Akpeyi, Dele Ajiboye and Ikechukwu Ezenwa were having shooting drills with the goalkeeper trainers, the outfield players were grouped into two for some light ball work.

Captain John Obi Mikel lead one team during the ball work while vice-captain Ogenyi Onazi lead the other group in the session which involves not allowing the ball drop.

After the ball works which lasted a little over 20 minutes, the players had a little 8 aside game which had all of the 18 players who have arrived for the game taking part.



**Maxwell Pius


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/03/18-eagles-in-training-how-eagles-first-training-session-ahead-of-zambia-clash-unfolded/

Akpeyi Or Ezenwa? Rohr Speaks On Battle To Be Super Eagles First Choice For Zambia Clash




The battle for who will man the post between the duo of Daniel Akpeyi and Ikechukwu Ezenwa is set to go down the wire as coach of the team Gernot Rohr is yet to settle on who will be in goal on Saturday when Nigeria take on Zambia in Uyo.
Injury ruled Akpeyi out of the Eagles games against Cameroon, which allowed Ezenwa the chance to stake a claim for the first choice spot after impressing in the back to back games in Uyo and Yaounde respectively.

Akpeyi is back to full fitness, but his return coincide with a time when Ezenwa went to the WAFU Cup and emerged as the best goalkeeper of the tournament due to his display for the B team of the Super Eagles.

Coach Rohr said he is excited about the battle between the duo as it will bring out the best in them, and assured Nigerians that the best among the duo will be in goal on Saturday.

“They have not done bad, we have two goalkeeper coaches and what have seen today in the training session was very good, Ezenwa did very well, Daniel Akpeyi is coming back also, for this competition, so it’s very good for the team and this competition is very fair also”, Rohr said.

” We’ll bank on that. Ezenwa did very well also with the WAFU tournament , five games without conceding a goal, he was the best goalkeeper of the tournament so he is full of confidence. Akpeyi is coming back, he is playing regularly at Chippa United at a high level, so we’ll see the best one will play”, he concluded before heading into the team bus after their first training session in Uyo.


**Ade Emmanuel


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/03/akpeyi-or-ezenwa-rohr-speaks-on-battle-to-be-super-eagles-first-choice-for-zambia-clash/

Super Eagles Practice Game: Line-Ups, Ighalo Nets Hat-Trick, Ekong With Ferocious Shots




The training pitch of Godswill Akpabio International Stadium was used for the two practice games involving the Super Eagles players on Tuesday evening, with about a quarter of the full length of the pitch utilized.

Training cones were used to narrow the width of the space used for the practice game.

Ikechukwu Ezenwa trained alone with the goalkeeper trainer, Daniel Akpeyi and Dele Ajiboye joined in with the rest of the squad and Wilfred Ndidi assisted the goalkeeper trainer to test the FC Ifeanyi Ubah goalkeeper.

Team A wore blue bibs on green jerseys and it contained Tony Nwakaeme, Leon Balogun, Troost-Ekong, Ahmed Musa, Ifeanyi Ifeanyi, Abdullahi Shehu, Elderson Echiejile, Eddy Onazi and Daniel Akpeyi.

Team B players, who wore green jerseys, comprised of Obi Mikel, John Ogu,Uche Agbo, Mikel Agu, Oghenekaro Etebo, Odion Ighalo, Kelechi Iheanacho, Afeez Aremu and Dele Ajiboye.
Ezenwa later took over goalkeeping duties from Akpeyi and the Chippa United star went to train on his own.

The highlights of the practice game were Ighalo scoring thrice for Team B and Troost-Ekong with three ferocious shots in the space of five minutes which were well saved by goalkeeper Ajiboye.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24874

Rohr's Selection Headache: Akpeyi Saves Penalty, Ajiboye Shot-Stopper, Ezenwa Past Glory




Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr will not surprise many people when he names his starting line-up on Saturday, with Leon Balogun, Troost-Ekong, Wilfred Ndidi, Obi Mikel, Odion Ighalo and Victor Moses among the untouchable players.
However, allnigeriasoccer.com understands the German tactician is faced with a major selection dilemma over which goalkeeper will be in between the pipes against the Zambians, if the workout on Tuesday evening is anything to go by.

Plateau United goalkeeper Dele Ajiboye gave a good account of himself during today's practice game and is aiming to usurp either Daniel Akpeyi or Ikechukwu Ezenwa, but Rohr has not made up his mind.

Ajiboye saw his ratings go up after showing his ability to deal with shots from point-blank range, and his reflexes were excellent.

Daniel Akpeyi gave away a penalty during the practice game but he redeemed himself when he stopped the spot kick taken by Leicester City's Ahmed Musa.

Though the goalkeeper trainer concentrated mainly on Akpeyi and Ezenwa during most of the goalkeeping drills, Ajiboye stood out the most at the training game.

Nigeria have used three goalkeepers (Ikeme, Akpeyi and Ezenwa) in four matches during the World Cup qualifiers.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Photo Credit : BackpageMedia/FoxSportsAfrica


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24875

Victor Moses Not Skipping WCQ Vs Zambia, Iwobi, Aina, Simon Join Camp



Chelsea right wing-back Victor Moses is not skipping the important World Cup qualifying match against Zambia.

The Blues number fifteen will be the last invited Super Eagle to report for international duty, with Arsenal striker Alex Iwobi, Hull City's Ola Aina, Nante's Chidozie Awaziem and Gent winger Moses Simon teaming up with the national team just before they departed for training on Tuesday evening.


''Victor Moses has left London, and is presently in Nigeria. Due to some pressing commitments, he has not yet arrived in Uyo,'' a top source close to Moses told allnigeriasoccer.com .

It is confirmed that manager Gernot Rohr will begin running the rule over Iwobi, Aina, Awaziem and Simon on Wednesday evening when the Eagles return to training at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

Moses is among the three core players for the Super Eagles according to those in the know at the Nigeria Football Federation, the others being captain Obi Mikel and defender Leon Balogun.

The 26-year-old has played 23 competitive matches for Nigeria since his debut in 2012.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Photo Credit : Instagram.com/VictorMoses

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24876

Echiejile Plays Down Ankle Injury During Eagles’ Tuesday Training Session
By Johnny Edward (photo by Ganiyu Yusuf in Uyo)




Sivasspor defender Elderson Echiejile has played down the ankle knock he copped in the Super Eagles’ first training session at the practicing pitch of Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Uyo Tuesday nighy, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

The 29 year old defender is the only left-back named in the Super Eagles’ squad for the game.

Echiejile suffered a knock on his ankle when he tried to stop
Odion Ighalo from scoring a goal during the training session.

Echiejile told only Completesportsnigeria.com after the team’s training session Tuesday evening that he was hurt but was fine after his ankle was iced by the team’s doctor..

“I’m fine now, it was nothing serious thanks for the concern,” Echiejile told Completesportsnigeria.com.

“It’s a contact game, but I’m very fine.”


Nigeria host Zambia on Saturday in a 2018 World Cup qualifier. The Super Eagles lead the Group B with ten points while Zambia are in the second position with seven points.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/echiejile-plays-ankle-injury‎-training/

Opponents Watch


Chipolopolo Star Patson Daka To Join Team In Abuja
By Kayode Ogundare in Accra




Zambia star striker Patson Dhaka is due to meet up with his national teammates in Uyo, Nigeria after missing the Ghana training camp where the Zambians have been perfecting strategies for next Saturday’s crucial World Cup Qualifier against Nigeria.
The Red Bull Salzburg of Austria player was named in coach Wedson Nyirenda’s initial 21-man squad but he was unable to arrive Accra due to what was explained as flight hitches.

Daka scored the lone goal when Zambia defeated Algeria in the second of their double header which has now outthe Southern African country in a good position to contest for the sole ticket from Group B.

Zambia’s preparations has been blighted by injuries and late arrivals with Austria-based midfielder Enock Mwepu arriving Accra on Tuesday afternoon.

Captain and first choice goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene had arrived late on Monday night from South African club Mamelodi Sundowns.

Mwepu’s arrival brings to 20 the number of players in camp.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/chipolopolo-star-patson-dhaka-join-team-abuja/

Opponents Watch


Zambia Break Training Camp, Set To Hit Abuja On Wednesday
By Kayode Ogundare in Accra




The Chipolopolo of Zambia will enter the next phase of their preparations when they arrive Abuja on Wednesday ahead of next Saturday’s crucial World Cup qualifier againt the Super Eagles in Uyo, completesportsnigeria.com can report.

Zambia, which set up a training camp in Accra, after a proposed tour of Spain was botched, had spent the last four days in the Ghanaian capital trying to perfect strategies for the must-win game.

According to Chris Chibuye, team manager of the Chipolopolo, the Southern African side will close the Ghana camp and fly to Abuja where they’ll stay before moving down to Uyo for the game on Saturday.
Zambia trail Nigeria by three points and must not lose this game in order to keep their World Cup hopes alive.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/zambia-break-ghana-training-camp-set-hit-abuja-wednesday/

Moses Simon : We Know The Importance Of Qualifying For The World Cup



Super Eagles winger Moses Simon is fully aware of the importance of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Nigeria's bid to reach a sixth Fifa World Cup in seven tournaments will be seriously tested on Saturday when the Super Eagles face off with the Copper Bullets at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

With two rounds to be decided, the three-time African champions will have a guaranteed berth at the World Cup if they beat Zambia on Saturday, but things can change if they lose the match.

''Victory is what everyone needs on Saturday. We know the importance of qualifying for the World Cup, so my colleagues and I will push everything we have in us to get the result,'' Moses Simon told the Nigeria Football Federation.

Moses has played a key role for the Super Eagles in the World Cup qualifiers, starting both games against Swaziland in the second round, plus the two matches against Cameroon and Zambia.
The 22-year-old contributed to two of the five goals scored by Nigeria against Cameroon in September.


**Igho Kingsley

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24877

Akpeyi Steals The Show In Eagles First Training Session With Point Blank Saves, Stops Penalty




Daniel Akpeyi was the main attraction during the Super Eagles training session watched by Owngoalnigeria.com Maxwell Pius at the training pitch of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
The Eagles had a light session before splitting into two groups of 8 players each for a practice game, which Akpeyi excelled with save after save to frustrate the forwards he was up against.
Akpeyi was difficult to beat throughout the session, and his form is a confirmation of how well he has been performing for his Premier South Africa League side Chippa United.
The highlight of his performance was stopping a penalty from Leicester City Star Ahmed Musa, and the manner which he stopped shots during their shooting drills.
Although Ikechukwu Ezenwa didn’t do badly, Akpeyi was by far the most impressive, however he was up against some of the top strikers of the team so that means he was constantly under pressure as they mounted attacks after attack.
A decision on who will start between the duo is expected to be made in the coming days, but for now Akpeyi is in the lead after his performance this evening.


**Maxwell Pius

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/03/akpeyi-steals-the-show-in-eagles-first-training-session-with-point-blank-saves-stops-penalty/

Goal.com's view on Akpeyi's Tuesday training performance....


The 31-year-old showcased his goalkeeping skills and superb reflexes, helping him to catch the eye of Gernot Rohr and football fans

Daniel Akpeyi is priming himself for Saturday’s World Cup qualifying with Zambia by turning on the style on the training field.

Ikechukwu Ezenwa’s heroics against Cameroon – which could hand him the starter’s shirt against the south Africans – does not appear to have knocked the confidence of the Chippa United goalkeeper, as he made brilliant saves which drew applause from the over 200 spectators at the Godswill Akpabio stadium.

Akpeyi was in fine form in training 2day stopping Musa's penalty plus other point-blank saves. Will that see him displace Ezenwa vs Zambia? pic.twitter.com/efRpPNbX84 — 'Shina Oludare (@sportingshina) October 3, 2017


Will the German tactician throw the 31-year-old into the fray against Chipolopolo or will he stick with Ezenwa who halted the attacking forays of Cameroon?




Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/akpeyi-turns-on-the-style-in-nigeria-training-with/xwy77v8fvjhe1v8z0kg9wog7m