Opponents Watch

Zambia Suffer Setback As Club Paperwork Knocks Star Midfielder Out Of Eagles Game
By Kayode Ogundare in Accra




Chipolopolo of Zambia’s preparations for the all-important win-or-bust game against Nigeria on October 7th suffered a setback with the inability of Sweden-based Edward Chilufya to join the team.

Chilufya, who’d been expected to storm the Ghana training camp of the Zambians latest by Tuesday afternoon sent word, according to Team Manager Chris Chibuye, that he would no longer available for the game in Uyo next Saturday.

This was because his work permit paperwork was not yet finalised after signing a contract on turning 18 years.

Chilufya, who played both legs of the double victory over Algeria was expected to be one of the key figures in Coach Wedson Nyirenda’s new look Chipolopolo side aiming to reach a first ever World Cup.
His absence is another blow to a team that has seen the withdrawal through injuries of stalwarts like Brian Mwila and Emmanuel Banda.



Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/zambia-suffer-setback-club-paperwork-knocks-star-midfielder-eagles-game/

Ezenwa Hopes To Retain Role In Eagles Starting Line-up Vs Zambia
By Johnny Edward (photo by Ganiyu Yusuf) in Uyo




FC Ifeanyi Ubah goalkeeper, Ikechukwu Ezenwa hopes to keep his place in the Super Eagles’ starting line-up when they face Zambia in Saturday’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier , Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

Ezenwa earned his first two international caps for the Super Eagles on matchday 3 and 4 of the qualifiers against Cameroon in Uyo and Yaounde last month.

The 29 year old shotstopper who was impressive in the Super Eagles’ first training session on Tuesday was however pleased to have Daniel Akpeyi back again in the squad after he missed the last two games due to injury.

“I hope to keep my place, but whoever gets the chance will be supported.

“I’m glad he’s back.” Ezenwa told Completesportsnigeria.com as he hurriedly joined his teammates in the team bus after Tuesday evening training session at the practicing pitch of Godswill Akpabio International Stadium Uyo.

Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ezenwa-hopes-retain-eagles-starting/

OLA AINA READY TO MAKE HIS MARK FOR NIGERIA
By Kunle Fayiga, Correspondent





The full-back didn't get on the pitch against Cameroon, but will Gernot Rohr involve him against Zambia this weekend?

The Super Eagles of Nigeria take on the Chipolopolo of Zambia this weekend at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in the penultimate game of the Group B 2018 World Cup qualifiers, with both sides still in the running for Russia.

It’s a match in which Nigeria need to get a result to remain in pole position to take one of the five African spots in Russia next year.


Considering that Gernot Rohr’s men triumphed in Ndola last October, they should be able to get the job done, and will know that a win in front of their own fans would guarantee their place at the global footballing showpiece.
The German tactician has retained the same squad that earned four points in the double header over Cameroon last month, and while he appears poised to name the same XI, one player who deserves Rohr's attention is Ola Aina.



The 20-year old, currently on loan at Hull City from Chelsea, was on the bench against the Indomitable Lions after getting his clearance to play for the Super Eagles since switching allegiance from England to Nigeria.

Looking forward to International Duties #SuperEagles
9:18 PM - Oct 2, 2017 15 57 330 olaoluwa aina @Aina2Ola

There are concerns that Aina lacks international experience to play a game as crucial as this but his showings for the Tigers in the Championship have been top notch; he has been ever-present for Leonid Slutsky’s side this term, laying two assists, the latest which came in Hull’s 6-1 bashing of Birmingham City at the weekend.

Aina has showed promise right from his days in the youth ranks with Chelsea. So impressive was he that he won the admiration of Jose Mourinho and now Antonio Conte, with versatility one of his key assets.

The 20-year old is primarily a right-back but is equally adept at playing at left-back and centre-back.

He’s got confidence when in possession of the ball, has incredible pace and is efficient in aerial duels and interceptions.
Aina’s ability to surge forward and fall back when needed makes him the perfect full-back, drawing comparison with Cesar Azpilicueta.



Aina faces competition at right-back in the form of Shehu Abdullahi – who did a fine job defensively against Cameroon, but the Southwark-born defender could also be utilised on the left.

Rohr has consistently used Elderson Echiejile as left-back, but the 29-year-old has often struggled.

He continues to be a shadow of himself, lacking the required defensive and offensive sharpness, and very prone to losing possession.

What’s more, the majority of Nigeria’s conceded goals since Rohr took charge have come from Echiejile’s side, raising the prospect that opponents are targetting the full-back.

The Sivasspor man might have 56 caps to his name and played at the highest level, appearing at the World Cup, in the Uefa Champions League, and winning the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, but his recent outings do not hint at his considerable experience.



This is where Aina needs to come in.

His heart has been set out on playing for Nigeria, with captain
John Obi Mikel having an impact on him during the Tianjin TEDA midfielder’s time at Stamford Bridge. An opportunity to be called up to what Aina has dreamed of, and expect him to be raring to go for the West African giants.


“I am very proud and honoured to be wearing the Super Eagles’ jersey," he told Goal ahead of the Cameroon clash. "It has been a dream come true and I am relishing every second of my stay here.”




It may be an important match, but don't expect Aina to be overawed by the occasion.

He's adapted seamlessly to life in the Championship - a notoriously punishing league - while he's been surrounded by able mentors throughout his young career, from compatriot Victor Moses to Chelsea stalwarts such as John Terry, Garry Cahill, Branislav Ivanovic and Azpilicueta.


Will Rohr be bold and opt to throw Aina into the mix at the expense of one of his two full-backs - ideally the underwhelming Elderson - or will this precocious wideman have to wait for another day to make his long-awaited bow?


Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/ola-aina-ready-to-make-his-mark-for-nigeria/mt6svxph2hac1sysi3yhynst6

Ahead of the October 7 #NGAZAM cracker in Uyo, I strongly believe the game will be won and lost... and I know the winner will be Nigeria's Super Eagles by a scoreline of 3-0, 3-1 or maybe 4-1 or probably 2-0... time will tell. But Bottomline is, I see us sealing our WC ticket that day and I wanna look at what possible 23-man all time best we could take to the mundial if Time travel was possible (actually I feel it is possible going by studies I have had on the subject).. looolll

Goal.com dropped theirs but I wanna drop mine... several of my choices agree with Goal's ofcos.

So what will be your Nigerian All time dream 23-man squad to the World cup?




Picking an All-Time Dream Nigeria World Cup 23-man Squad

Goalkeepers:

Vincent Enyeama
Peter Rufai
Best Ogedengbe/Emmanuel Okala

Defenders:

Uche Okechukwu
Stephen Keshi
Christian Chukwu
Joseph Yobo
Taribo West
Taiye Taiwo
Celestine Babayaro
Chidi Ordiah

Midfielders:

Austin Jaj Jay Okocha
Finidi George
Sunday Oliseh
John Obi Mikel
Emmanuel Amuneke
Segun Odegbami
Samson Siasia
Adokiye Amiesimaka

Forwards:

KANU Nwankwo
Rashidi Yekini "Yeking"
Daniel Amokachi
Victor Ikpeba


So what is yours?

Wishing the Super Eagles all the best ahead of October 7

#NGAZAM #SoarSuperEagles

Why Zambia Game Will Be More Difficult Than Cameroon – Rohr Explains



Players of the Super Eagles of Nigeria have been warned to
expect a fight tougher than what they had in their back to back games against Cameroon when they take on Zambia on Saturday.

Coach Gernot Rohr who lead the Eagles to a win and a draw against Cameroon is one win away from qualifying the Super Eagles for the World Cup in Russia next year.

However he has cautioned his lads to be at their best as the Zambians are a much improved side from the team the Eagles beat 2-0 in Ndola in the reverse tie.

” We are looking at making the decision in our group. Of course, if we win this game on Saturday, you know that we have qualified, everybody wants to do it. But we know also that Zambia is a good team”, Rohr said.

” They are champions of Under-20 in Africa, they have a different team now from the one they had in Ndola. So we must not underrate this team.

” We have a lot of respect for this Zambian team. They beat Algeria twice, we know it would not be easy. I think it would be even more difficult than the Cameroon game,” he concluded.


**Michael James

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/03/why-zambia-game-will-be-more-difficult-than-cameroon-rohr-explains/

Super Eagles Training: Uche Scores Beautiful Curler, Iheanacho & Mikel Bag Two Goals Each




The Super Eagles held their first training session at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Tuesday evening, ahead of Saturday's World Cup qualifying match with Zambia.

Changchun Yatai F.C. striker Odion Ighalo grabbed the headlines with a hat-trick for Team B, but a couple of players also impressed with their goalscoring contributions.

Leicester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho is pushing for a starting spot in attack against the Copper Bullets, having netted a brace in Tuesday evening's practice game.

Ex-Chelsea ace John Obi Mikel and Leicester's Wilfred Ndidi are the untouchable midfielders, and the likes of Oghenekaro Etebo, Eddy Onazi, Uche Agbo and Mikel Agu are competing for the last midfield spot.

Mikel Agu and versatile Standard Liege midfielder Uche Agbo did themselves good when they found the back of the net in the practice game, with the Porto loanee bagging a brace.

Arguably, Uche scored the pick of the goals when he nutmegged William Troost-Ekong then scored a beautiful curler towards the end of the practice game.

Hapoel Beer Sheva star Anthony Nwakaeme and Cypriot-based Abdullahi Shehu also wrote their names on the score-sheet during the national team's first workout.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24879

Some pics of Super Eagles in training on Tuesday evening










Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/super-eagles-begin-training-photos-uyo/

Akpoborie: Nigeria Under Pressure To Qualify For Russia 2018, Not Zambia
By James Agberebi



Former Nigeria International, Jonathan Akpoborie, says the Super Eagles and not Chipolopolo of Zambia are under pressure to qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.The Eagles host Zambia on matchday-five of the 2018 World Cup African qualifiers in Uyo on Saturday, October 7.

Zambia, on seven points, must beat the Super Eagles (10 points) to stand a chance of qualifying for their first ever World Cup appearance.

A win for the Eagles against the Chipolopolo will seal qualification for a sixth World Cup appearance.

But looking ahead to Saturday’s crucial clash, Akpoborie who was in the Super Eagles squad that qualified for the 1998 World Cup in France but was dropped, posits that Gernot Rohr’s side has everything to play for.

“Who says the pressure is on the Chipolopolo? The pressure is on the Super Eagles to win and qualify,” the 1985 FIFA U-17 World Cup winner in China tweeted on hisTwitter handle.

Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/akpoborie-nigeria-pressure-qualify-russia-2018-not-zambia/

Rohr on Ezenwa-Akpeyi Rivalry for the Super Eagles no.1 slot:

“We have worked very hard on that, we have two goalkeeper coaches and what I saw in [Tuesday’s training] session was very good.

“[Ikechukwu] Ezenwa did very well, [Daniel] Akpeyi is coming back. So, there is competition and that is very good for the team.
This competition is very fair also and we [the technical crew] welcome that.

“ Ezenwa did very well with the Wafu team – five games without conceding a goal, he was the best goalkeeper of the tournament and that is good for his confidence.

“Akpeyi is coming back, he is playing in Chippa United, so we will see and the best one will play.”

Super Eagles camp latest

Victor Moses has finally landed in the camp of the Super Eagles.


#Fullhouse... #SoarSuperEagles

Training starts by 5pm Nigeria time (another open session)

Close sessions start on Thursday and ends on Friday.

(See Picture) – Zambia Arrive Abuja, Team To Depart For Uyo Tomorrow



The senior national team of Zambia popularly call the Chipolopolo arrived Abuja, the capital of Nigeria earlier today ahead of their World Cup 2018 Qualifiers clash against Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

They will spend the night in Abuja, where they will be lodged at the prestigious Bolton White Hotel ahead of their journey to Uyo, Akwa Ibom state venue of the game.

Zambia need at least a draw to keep their hope of qualifying for next year World Cup alive after back to back win over Algeria during the last round of games.

Nigeria who are leading the group need a win to gain an unassailable lead with a game to spare, and they will be gunning for victory over Zambia like they need in their first qualifiers in Ndola.

The Super Eagles triumphed 2-1 in Ndola with goals from Kelechi Iheanacho and Alex Iwobi, but Zambia have recovered from the loss and are now the only team in the group with a chance of overhauling Nigeria.

**Ade Emmanuel

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/04/see-picture-zambia-arrive-abuja-team-to-depart-for-uyo-tomorrow/

TheSuperNerd:
Opponents Watch

Zambia Suffer Setback As Club Paperwork Knocks Star Midfielder Out Of Eagles Game
By Kayode Ogundare in Accra




Chipolopolo of Zambia’s preparations for the all-important win-or-bust game against Nigeria on October 7th suffered a setback with the inability of Sweden-based Edward Chilufya to join the team.

Chilufya, who’d been expected to storm the Ghana training camp of the Zambians latest by Tuesday afternoon sent word, according to Team Manager Chris Chibuye, that he would no longer available for the game in Uyo next Saturday.

This was because his work permit paperwork was not yet finalised after signing a contract on turning 18 years.

Chilufya, who played both legs of the double victory over Algeria was expected to be one of the key figures in Coach Wedson Nyirenda’s new look Chipolopolo side aiming to reach a first ever World Cup.
His absence is another blow to a team that has seen the withdrawal through injuries of stalwarts like Brian Mwila and Emmanuel Banda.



Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/zambia-suffer-setback-club-paperwork-knocks-star-midfielder-eagles-game/

The doors are now open. Nigeria are you ready to roast the Zambians?

TheSuperNerd:
(See Picture) – Zambia Arrive Abuja, Team To Depart For Uyo Tomorrow



The senior national team of Zambia popularly call the Chipolopolo arrived Abuja, the capital of Nigeria earlier today ahead of their World Cup 2018 Qualifiers clash against Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

They will spend the night in Abuja, where they will be lodged at the prestigious Bolton White Hotel ahead of their journey to Uyo, Akwa Ibom state venue of the game.

Zambia need at least a draw to keep their hope of qualifying for next year World Cup alive after back to back win over Algeria during the last round of games.

Nigeria who are leading the group need a win to gain an unassailable lead with a game to spare, and they will be gunning for victory over Zambia like they need in their first qualifiers in Ndola.

The Super Eagles triumphed 2-1 in Ndola with goals from Kelechi Iheanacho and Alex Iwobi, but Zambia have recovered from the loss and are now the only team in the group with a chance of overhauling Nigeria.

**Ade Emmanuel

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/04/see-picture-zambia-arrive-abuja-team-to-depart-for-uyo-tomorrow/

The hide-and-seek game is over. Zambia, you know you are always welcome to the slaughter ground where you are next in line.

TheSuperNerd:
Super Eagles camp latest

Victor Moses has finally landed in the camp of the Super Eagles.


#Fullhouse... #SoarSuperEagles

Training starts by 5pm Nigeria time (another open session)

Close sessions start on Thursday and ends on Friday.

Moses is ready to run the line like the road runner in Disney

TheSuperNerd:
Rohr on Ezenwa-Akpeyi Rivalry for the Super Eagles no.1 slot:

“We have worked very hard on that, we have two goalkeeper coaches and what I saw in [Tuesday’s training] session was very good.

“[Ikechukwu] Ezenwa did very well, [Daniel] Akpeyi is coming back. So, there is competition and that is very good for the team.
This competition is very fair also and we [the technical crew] welcome that.

“ Ezenwa did very well with the Wafu team – five games without conceding a goal, he was the best goalkeeper of the tournament and that is good for his confidence.

“Akpeyi is coming back, he is playing in Chippa United, so we will see and the best one will play.”

Let the goalie with the best piece of form man the sticks on Saturday

TheSuperNerd:
Why Zambia Game Will Be More Difficult Than Cameroon – Rohr Explains



Players of the Super Eagles of Nigeria have been warned to
expect a fight tougher than what they had in their back to back games against Cameroon when they take on Zambia on Saturday.

Coach Gernot Rohr who lead the Eagles to a win and a draw against Cameroon is one win away from qualifying the Super Eagles for the World Cup in Russia next year.

However he has cautioned his lads to be at their best as the Zambians are a much improved side from the team the Eagles beat 2-0 in Ndola in the reverse tie.

” We are looking at making the decision in our group. Of course, if we win this game on Saturday, you know that we have qualified, everybody wants to do it. But we know also that Zambia is a good team”, Rohr said.

” They are champions of Under-20 in Africa, they have a different team now from the one they had in Ndola. So we must not underrate this team.

” We have a lot of respect for this Zambian team. They beat Algeria twice, we know it would not be easy. I think it would be even more difficult than the Cameroon game,” he concluded.


**Michael James

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/03/why-zambia-game-will-be-more-difficult-than-cameroon-rohr-explains/

Zambia has always proved to be a bogey and competitive team against Nigeria. The last game in ndola also pointed to that. The head 2 head meetings suggests that the Zambians are not an easy going but when it matters the most Nigeria conquers even when the super eagles are not always impressive in the game. So either ways G. Rohr has a point but like I said I expect a real battering of the Zambians.

Rohr Dismisses Fear Over Injury To Elderson Echiejile – It’s Nothing Serious




Coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria Gernot Rohr has dismissed concerns over the knock picked up by the left full back of the team Elderson Echiejile ahead of Saturday’s clash against Zambia.

Echiejile picked up a knock in their first training session, and it lead to him missing large part of their practice game at the training pitch of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

They were concerns over his fitness following his withdrawal from training yesterday, particularly as he is the only recognised left full back in the squad for the game against Zambia.

However Rohr has dismissed fears over his condition, and insisted that the Sivasspor defender will be fit to take part in today’s training session as the knock isn’t as bad as reported.

Maxwell Pius who is on ground for Owngoalnigeria.com had a brief chat with the manager about the condition of Echiejile, and his response was brief and precise enough to quell fears over his fitness.

“It’s nothing important and he’ll train today”, Rohr said shortly after the end of their training session yesterday.


**Maxwell Pius

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/04/rohr-dismisses-fear-over-injury-to-elderson-echiejile-its-nothing-serious/

Nigeria v Zambia – Players to watch
By Kelvin Musako (A Zambian Journalist based in Kabwe, Zambia).




As we count down to Saturday’s 2018 FIFA World Cup
Qualifier between Nigeria and Zambia in Uyo, Soka25east.com takes a look at some of the key players from both sides.

Nigeria being the home side are coming into this fixture as favourites and packed with depth in each department.

Gernot Rohr has the luxury of picking from a bucket full of options to ensure the Super Eagles make it to Russia 2018.
We take a look at some of the players that the German will look to ensure they wrap up qualification against Zambia.

NIGERIA KEY PLAYERS

1.Ikechukwu Ezenwa

Ezenwa earned his two international caps for the Super Eagles against Cameroon in Uyo and Yaounde last month.The 29-year old has been impressive in the absence of Daniel Akpeyi and will look to seal another starting berth in goal.


2. Leon Balogun

The 29 year Nigerian will be one of the key men in this encounter. The Mainz 05 defender has 8 caps for Nigeria and will look to put in a good shift against the Zambians.


3. William Troost-Ekong

An intelligent defender, with 14 international caps for the Super Eagles. His strength will be key to disrupt any attack from the Zambians.


4. John Obi Mikel

The combative midfielder is the leader of this Nigeria squad and will always look to play in the spaces between the defense and the attack. With his impressive pass accuracy, Mikel will also look to get himself among the goals.


5. Victor Moses

Blessed with blistering pace and skill, Victor Moses has the ability to beat any defender in the World and will definitely give the Zambian team a had time through out the match. The Chelsea man missed the first leg in Ndola and his presence could expose the Zambian team who seem to be weak in the left back position. Moses is Nigeria’s top scorer with 3 goals so far in the qualifiers.


6. Odion Ighalo

Odion Ighalo is an intimidating figure upfront. Know for his pace, power and an eye for goal the former Watford man who now plays for Chinese club Changchun Yatai F.C. is another key player for this Nigerian team.


7. Alex Iwobi

The Arsenal forward was among the goals in Ndola when the two sides met in the first leg and he could prove to be a good option for the Super Eagles.






ZAMBIA KEY PLAYERS

Wedson Nyirenda’s boys come into this fixture as underdogs but their recent back to back wins against Algeria has sent a lot of Jitters in the Nigerian camp.

The Zambian camp have been hit with injury setbacks, the key points being Brian Mwila who plays for Platinum Stars in the PSL.

The big man scored a brace against Algeria in Lusaka and has been absent ever since.
However, the Zambians still have the ammunition to power past the much more fancied Nigerian side.

1. Kennedy Mweene

The veteran goalkeeper knows what it takes to play at the highest level having won the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations with Zambia. The 32 year old Skipper has a massive 111 senior caps with 2 goals for the Chipolopolo. He made some impressive saves against the Algerians in that 1-0 away victory.


2. Stophila Sunzu

Another player who has an Afcon winners Medal to his name scoring the winning penalty in the shoot out against Ivory Coast. The tall figure of Sunzu will be needed again in Uyo if Zambia are to cause an upset.


3. Enock Mwepu

The latest addition to the senior Chipolopolo side is U-20 midfield Dynamo Enock Mwepu. Nicknamed the “Computer”, Mwepu in his 2 appearance for the Chipolopolo has already scored a goal showing that his exploits with the junior Chipolopolo at the U-20 World Cup in Korea were not a one time thing having led his side to a quarter final finish.


4. Augustine Mulenga

The Zanaco attacking winger has impressed so far in the Qualifiers. It is his three assists led to Algeria’s downfall in both encounters and he could torment the Nigerians in Uyo.


5. Kondwani Mtonga

Expect Kondwani Mtonga to be a key figure in the Zambian midfield. The Zesco United man is not the quickest but has the ability to dominate his opponents.


6. Chisamba Lungu

A fans’ favorite Chisamba Lungu was also part of the 2012 Afcon winning team and his vast experience could be the defining factor for the Chipolopolo.


7. Patson Daka

The FC Liefering forward scored the winner in Algeria. A silent
Assassin, and has the ability to creep in behind any defensive line. Daka was part of the Zambia U-20 side in Korea and reintegrated back into the Chipolopolo side by Nyirenda in the first leg against Algeria in Lusaka.



MATCH DETAILS

The 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier between Nigeria and Zambia takes place on Saturday 7 October 2017 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo with kick off slated for 18:00 CAT (5PM Nigerian time).

Source: http://www.soka25east.com/nigeria-v-zambia-players-to-watch/

Thesupernerd, I trust you are fine.

Awwwwwwn... The great poetic one... Sir Mujtahida

I am doing great Sir. Thanks for checking on me. Don't worry Sir... I am just good. Trust you are doing fine yourself as with the whole house.

It is well Sir. Stay blessed.

Mujtahida:
Thesupernerd, I trust you are fine.

Odey Follows In The Footsteps Of The Great Rashidi Yekini, As FCZ Confirm Signing





With a statement on their official website, Swiss Super League side FC Zurich have finally confirmed the signing of one-cap Nigeria international Stephen Odey from Mountain of Fire FC.

The 19-year-old will remain at FC Zurich until at least June 30, 2021, having appended his signature to a four-year deal.


Thomas Bickel, Head of Sport at FCZ, told the club's official website :

''Stephen was already a scorer and a national player in his home country at the age of 19. We are glad that he wants to take the next step with us''.

FC Zurich had struck terms with Mountain of Fire weeks ago but the transfer was not rubber-stamped by Fifa until now, and he is now in line to make his competitive debut against Thun on October 15.

In signing a contract with FC Zurich, Odey has followed in the footsteps of Nigeria's record goalscorer Rashidi Yekiniw, who defended the colours of the club in the 1997-98 season, and Hall of Famer Ike Shorunmu.

Odey finished with 18 goals for MFM in the Nigeria Professional Football League in 2017.


**Igho Kingsley
Photo Credit : fcz.ch

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24884

Victor Moses Keeps To His Word, Rohr Set To Run The Rule Over Chelsea, Arsenal Stars




Victor Moses has kept to his word, with the Chelsea right wing-back finally reporting for international duty in Uyo on Wednesday afternoon.

It is confirmed that Super Eagles manager Gernot Rohr will begin running the rule over Moses when the national team hold their second training session as from 1700 hours at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

As first reported by allnigeriasoccer.com , Moses did not show up at Le Meridien Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort until this afternoon because he had to sort out some issues and needed a rest.

For the first time in October, the German tactician will also monitor Chelsea loanee Ola Aina, Arsenal winger Alex Iwobi, Nantes defender Chidozie Awaziem and Gent winger Moses Simon on Wednesday evening.

Meanwhile, the Zambia National Team have landed in Abuja and will fly out to the Akawa Ibom State capital on Thursday, two days before the most important game in their history.

Nigeria can secure a World Cup berth with one game to spare if they beat Zambia on Saturday.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24882

TheSuperNerd:
Awwwwwwn... The great poetic one... Sir Mujtahida

I am doing great Sir. Thanks for checking on me. Don't worry Sir... I am just good. Trust you are doing fine yourself as with the whole house.

It is well Sir. Stay blessed.

You welcome. I miss you brah, I do. Home is where you are on the thread with all of us. Hoping to read you soon once again right there. Cheers

How Eagles Training Unfolded – Victor Moses Dazzles As Strikers Fire Blank



The Super Eagles of Nigeria were once again put through their paces by coach Gernot Rohr before engaging themselves in a training game ahead of their clash against Zambia on Saturday.

All players invited took part in the full session which lasted a little over an hour, with Victor Moses the only player who missed yesterday training finally linking up with the squad.

Moses showed his class during the training match with mesmerising dribbling runs which left his markers for dead, especially during the latter stage of the drill.

The Chelsea wing-back who is expected to start as a forward on Saturday for Nigeria was lively throughout and can easily pass as the best player in the team he played for.

Despite his fine performance, the training game ended goalless as goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Daniel Akpeyi frustrated the efforts of the forward with fine saves.


**Maxwell Pius

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/04/how-eagles-training-unfolded-victor-moses-dazzles-as-strikers-fire-blank/

DELE AJIBOYE: I WILL WAIT FOR SUPER EAGLES CHANCE
By Shina Oludare




The goalkeeper is yet to feature for Gernot Rohr’s team, but he believes he will be given an opportunity soon



Plateau United’s Dele Ajiboye is happy to bide his time and wait for his chance to prove his worth to Nigeria handler Gernot Rohr.

Ajiboye has yet to see any game time since his belated invitation against Cameroon, but the former Nigeria Under-17 international is confident that his chance will arrive soon.


“Other goalkeepers [Akpeyi and Ezenwa] are not doing badly, but I must keep doing my best and hope I get that chance someday,” Ajiboye told Goal.

“Everything in life is about opportunity and when I have it I hope to use it very well. For now, I am taking my time to learn from others and something tells me the door is not so far away."

When asked about Super Eagles’ chances against the Chipolopolo, the 27-year-old is supremely confident that his team will prove too strong for the visitors.

“I am sure of our [Super Eagles] victory,” he continued.

“We're organised, compact and have a fantastic blend of experience and youth, so Zambia should not pose a big problem.

“Our target is the World Cup ticket and securing a win on Saturday will make that a reality.”


Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/dele-ajiboye-i-will-wait-for-super-eagles-chance/8kg20sqkfws81ntb7tpd0ozs2

Young Nigerian Winger Ndukwu Delighted To Score Leicester City Winner Vs Carlisle United



Leicester City's young Nigerian winger Layton Ndukwu was delighted to net the winner as the Foxes beat Kelvin Etuhu's Carlisle United 1-0 at Brunton Park in the Checkatrade Trophy on Tuesday.

The former England U17 international registered his first goal of the season in the 19th minute, when he slid the ball home off an assist from Josh Eppiah.

''We are a young side but we have been working hard tactically on the training field and tonight it paid off so it’s a great result,'' Ndukwu told LCFC TV.

''We did well to pull it off. I was quite direct today, I did well with the ball, got myself a goal and it was a great result.''
Asked how difficult it was to face a League Two side, Ndukwu replied : ''It is tough physically. We want to progress in our careers and reach the first team.

''It’s a good benchmark to see how well we can do.''

Layton Ndukwu was in action for 67 minutes against the Blue & White army, teammate Calvin Ughelumba came on in the 71st minute while Kelvin Etuhu watched proceedings from the bench for the entirety of the match.


**Igho Kingsley
Photo Credit : lcfc.com


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24881

ADO Den Haag Offer Super Eagles Defender Tyronne Ebuehi New Contract




Super Eagles right back Tyronne Ebuehi could commit his future to Dutch Eredivisie outfit ADO Den Haag beyond the end of the 2017-2018 season, as per reports.

The Haarlem-born talent has started negotiations with ADO Den Haag over extending his stay at the club.

''The ball is now in the court of Tyronne and his intermediary," said ADO Den Haag manager football business Jeffrey van As to Voetbal International

Ebuehi began his career with the youth setup at SV Hoofddorp, before representing VV Young Boys and HFC Edo, then moved to ADO Den Haag in 2013.

The 21-year-old broke into ADO Den Haag's first team during the 2015-2016 season and has made 61 appearances to date, scoring once against Go Ahead Eagles.
He was one of the five players named on the Super Eagles standby list for their World Cup qualifier against Zambia on Saturday.

**Igho Kingsley

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24885

Was Kelechi Iheanacho the missing piece of West Brom's jigsaw?
By Vincent Ralph @VincentRalph1


West Bromwich Albion were linked with the striker prior to his move to Leicester City.

As reported by the Birmingham Mail, West Bromwich Albion were keen on signing Manchester City forward Kelechi Iheanacho before he completed his switch to Leicester City, and in hindsight it seems the Nigerian could have been the final piece of the jigsaw for the Baggies.

West Brom made some brilliant signings in the last transfer window, with Kieran Gibbs and Grzegorz Krychowiak impressing from the outset and youngster Oliver Burke expected to follow their lead now he has returned from a minor injury.

While Jay Rodriguez was also brought in, what West Brom really needed is a prolific forward who can operate between the lines and benefit from the delivery of Burke and fellow winger Nacer Chadli.

Iheanacho proved his quality at City, but he needs to be playing week in, week out, something yet to happen at Leicester.

The 21-year-old has featured predominantly from the bench and rarely had the chance to build up any kind of momentum in a Foxes shirt.

That will come in time, but had West Brom succeeded in their pursuit there is little doubt he would have been a regular starter under manager Tony Pulis.

There are still plenty of reasons for West Brom and their supporters to be positive this season. One only wonders if they could have gone even further had they added the Nigerian to their impressively assembled squad.

Source: http://www.hitc.com/en-gb/2017/10/04/was-kelechi-iheanacho-the-missing-piece-of-west-broms-jigsaw/

Iwobi’s Dad: Why Alex Missed Eagles Training On Tuesday
By Nurudeen Obalola in Uyo



Alex Iwobi’s father Chuka has explained why his son missed Tuesday’s Super Eagles training session here in Uyo ahead of Saturday’s 2018 World Cup qualifier against Zambia, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

Arsenal star Iwobi was one of only five players who missed the team’s first session at the practice pitch of the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Tuesday.

Iwobi arrived on Tuesday but could not participate in the session, which had 20 players in attendance, but he was involved in the evening session on Wednesday.

“Arsenal played a game on Sunday and the way it works at Arsenal is you have media obligations and then the warm down,” Iwobi senior explained to Completesportsnigeria.com as his son trained with 24 other Super Eagles players as it drizzled on Wednesday .

“It was an early kick-off but then you’ve got the media, the warm down and it was practically impossible to head off straight to the airport. He could also have cramp.”
Iwobi senior insists he has trained his son not to take his duties lightly.

He added: “Alex is a very disciplined young man and I’d be the last person to encourage him to disobey camp rules.

“If Arsenal had played on Saturday, Alex would have been here by Monday and he’d have taken part in training. It was logistically impossible for him to have got here by Monday. I left London with him on Monday for Abuja and we left immediately for Uyo. We got to Uyo as soon as possible; there was to resting in Abuja or anything. We spoke with the team officials about the situation and they agreed with us.”

Iwobi, who scored against Zambia in the reverse fixture in Ndola, was fully involved in Tuesday’s training, which started at 5pm.

Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/iwobi-dad-missed-eagles-training/

VICTOR OSIMHEN ON TARGET IN WOLFSBURG’S WIN OVER UTRECHT
By Sam Francisco, Correspondent






The 18-year-old forward got on the scoresheet as the Wolves defeated Erik ten Hag’s men at the Volkswagen Arena

Victor Osimhen was on target for Wolfsburg in their 2-0 win over Utrecht in a club friendly game on Wednesday.

The Nigeria international striker opened the scoring for the hosts in the 56th minute. A cross in from the left found the striker in the box, and he planted a header past the goalie.
Fourteen minutes later, Kaylen Hinds made it two. Another cross was played in from the right which eluded everyone but Hinds who fired in at the back post.

Osimhen will be looking to make his first appearance in the German top flight of the season when Martin Schmidt’s side visit the BayArena to take on Bayer Leverkusen on October 15.

Wolves vs @FCUtrecht_EN 1-0
@victorosimhen9 (56') #WOBUTR pic.twitter.com/0Li0mAvE9L — VfL Wolfsburg EN (@VfLWolfsburg_EN) October 4, 2017

Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/victor-osimhen-on-target-in-wolfsburgs-win-over-utrecht/7r2sjebxbmcx1kdhl468ogeoe

Eagles Training – Balogun & Ekong Resume “Oyibo Wall” Defence Partnership , Ezenwa Shines




The much talked about defence partnership of Leon Balogun and William Troost-Ekong was once again on display in the Super Eagles training watched by Owngoalnigeria.com Maxwell Pius.

Balogun and Ekong were paired together by coach Gernot Rohr while the other team for the training game had Chidozie Awaziem and Uche Agbo as their central defence pair.

As a pair they dovetailed nicely to frustrate the efforts of the strikers they were up against , with their performance playing a big role in the session that ended goalless.

However goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa was also very impressive between the sticks for his team, with saves to prove why he was so voted the best goalkeeper at the recently concluded WAFU Cup, where he kept six clean sheets.

Ezenwa’s performance will no doubt increase the intensity of the battle for the first choice spot of the team as Daniel Akpeyi who is returning back to the team was by far the star of yesterday’s training session.

**Osas Mahawi

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/04/eagles-training-balogun-ekong-resume-oyibo-wall-defence-partnership-ezenwa-shines/

FULHAM'S OJO VOWS TO COME BACK STRONGER FROM INJURY
By Sam Francisco, Correspondent





The 20-year-old has been ruled out for eight weeks after suffering an injury but vowed to come back even stronger
Fulham winger Sheyi Ojo has vowed to come back even stronger after suffering a dislocated shoulder which will rule him out of action for two months.

The Liverpool loanee was taken off in the 55th minute during the Cottagers 2-1 victory over QPR at Loftus road on Friday.

The Anglo-Nigerian was stretchered off and taken straight to the hospital where it was confirmed he will spend two month out on the sidelines.


But Ojo, who has already started rehabilitation has promised to return even better and thanked the Craven Cottage faithful for their support via his social media page.

"Absolutely gutted to be out for 8weeks. Another setback but I'll be back stronger 100%. Rehab has already started! Thanks for the support," Ojo tweeted.

Absolutely gutted to be out for 8weeks. Another setback but I'll be back stronger 100%. Rehab has already started!�Thanks for the support❤️ pic.twitter.com/CAB5hojyZB — Sheyi Ojo (@sheyi_ojo) October 4, 2017

Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/sheyi-ojo-vows-to-come-back-stronger-from-injury/f53vkyxh13us16wloc7e50921