Nigeria: Moses Looks Forward to 200th Game Against Man U
Victor Moses.



Barring an injury or loss of form, Victor Moses is set to hit an impressive Premier League milestone when Chelsea take on Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on November 5, 2017.
If the Nigeria international gets some game-time in the next five matches, he would have made 200 appearances in the English top-flight.

Moses has played for five different clubs in the Premier League : Chelsea, Wigan Athletic, Liverpool, West Ham United and Stoke City.

The former England U17 sensation made his debut in the English top-flight on February 6, 2010, when he replaced Hugo Rodallega in the 83rd minute as Wigan Athletic played out a 1-1 draw with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

Moses made 74 appearances in total for Wigan Athletic in the Premier League before transferring to Chelsea, for whom he has made 62 appearances including Saturday's 4-0 win at Stoke City.
The 26-year-old recorded 21 appearances for West Ham and 19 each while wearing the jerseys of Liverpool and Stoke City.

The right wing-back will join Shola Ameobi, Nwankwo Kanu, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, John Obi Mikel, Joseph Yobo and Victor Anichebe, who have all made 200 appearances or more in the Premier League, in the Nigerian history books if the milestone is achieved against Manchester United.


Source: http://allafrica.com/stories/201709250129.html

Nigeria’s Aremu: We Lost To Ghana In WAFU Cup When It Mattered Most
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Akwa United midfielder Hafiz Aremu insists that Nigeria’s Home Eagles must take the positives from their final defeat to Ghana at the just concluded West African Football Union (WAFU) Cup in Ghana, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

The Westerlo FC of Lagos loanee was a surprise inclusion in coach Salisu Yusuf’s squad for the tournament and was impressive for the Home Eagles helping them record five clean sheets during the tournament only to capitulate 4-1 in the final.
Incidentally, Nigeria had berated Ghana 2-0 in the group stages.

“It is disappointing for us. We are not happy. We have lost when it mattered most and it is painful,” Aremu told Completesportsnigeria.com.

“We didn’t start the game well and I think we could have done better with the pressure we had in the closing stages of the first half.

“We didn’t start good. Every duel went for them. This was not our best game because we didn’t creat chances to get back in the game.”

Stephen Sarfo scored a brace while a goal from Vincent Atingah from the spot and an injury time strike from Winnful Cobbinah saw the Black Stars defend their 2013 title at the expense of Nigeria. Rabiu Ali scored a spectacular free-kick for a consolation in the drubbing.

But Aremu has affirmed that, despite a disappointing result, the Home Eagles will bounce back better when the African Nations Championship begins next year in January.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nigerias-aremu-we-lost-to-ghana-in-wafu-cup-when-it-mattered-most/

Daniel Amokachi Returns To Everton & Runs The Rule Over Liverpool Old Boy Ibe



Super Eagles hero Daniel Amokachi was among the 38,133 spectators at Goodison Park in Liverpool when Everton took on AFC Bournemouth in the Premier League on Saturday, September 23.

The attacker was introduced to the Toffees faithful and received a standing ovation before the game started at 1500 hours.
Amokachi monitored Nigeria Football Federation target and Liverpool old boy Jordon Ibe, who put in a full shift against Everton, but would have been disappointed that another target, Everton winger Ademola Lookman didn't come off the bench.

This is Amokachi's second publicized visit to England in the last two months as he was part of the Super Eagles squad at the inaugural Star Sixes indoor football competition.

The 1994 World Cup star was shown the facilities at Everton's Training Ground, Finch Farm, a day before Ronald Koeman's troops faced the Cherries.

Daniel Amokachi will always have a place in Everton's folklore for his memorable brace against Tottenham Hotspur in the semifinal of the FA Cup in 2015, after bringing himself on as a substitute.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Photo Credit : twitter.com/FrenzziiiBull


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24764

Brief History of the Wafu Nations Cup

The WAFU Nations Cup (often abbreviated as the WAFU Cup ) is an association football competition that is contested by representative teams of the West African Football Union (WAFU).



Region: West Africa

Participation Criteria: Home based players of Each West African Nation/Football state.

Number of teams: 16 from the knock-out rounds; 8 in the main group stage finals.

Current Champions: Ghana


History

A trophy was commissioned by President Gnassingbé Eyadéma of Togo in 1974 with a view to establishing a regional competition similar to the Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

The maiden event was hosted in Abidjan and the hosts Ivory Coast won the tournament.

The West African Nations Cup (Zone 3) commenced in 1982 on an annual basis (not in 1985), and was played until 1987.
Meanwhile, in 1983 ECOWAS (French:CEDEAO) create another tournament, the CEDEAO Cup (Zone 3) and it was played on a bi-annual basis until 1991.

Zone 2 also had their own tournament created, the Amílcar Cabral Cup , named after the liberator of Guinea-Bissau, Amílcar Cabral .

The West African Nations Cup returned in 2002 as the WAFU Nations Cup , however, officially it was not considered simply as a continuation of the old tournament, and therefore it is a new tournament. The 2002 edition was short-lived after violence broke out in Ivory Coast.

Two games of the tournament had been played when it was cancelled. Finally, after an eight-year wait, the tournament returned in April 2010 which Nigeria's Ogun State hosted and the host nation won.



Tournament history



2002: Ivory Coast Abandoned one day into tournament due to the First Ivorian Civil War .


2010: Hosts- Nigeria

Nigeria 2–0 Senegal


2011: Hosts- Nigeria

Togo 3–2 Nigeria


2013: Hosts- Ghana

Ghana 3–1 Senegal


2017: Hosts- Ghana

Ghana 4–1 Nigeria


Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/WAFU_Nations_Cup

CSKA's Samuel Sends Warning To Man Utd Defenders Ahead Of Champions League Clash




Nigeria international striker Aaron Samuel has sent a warning to Manchester United defenders ahead of the UEFA Champions League meeting between CSKA Moscow and the English Premier League side in the Russian capital on Wednesday night.

Unarguably, the most impressive result on the opening day of the Champions League was CSKA Moscow's 2-1 away win at Benfica, and Samuel was keen to stress that they are ready to spoil Manchester United's party despite the top stars on the team.

''We have been preparing for the game against Manchester United and we are prepared enough, it is a very big game to us and we are looking forward to Wednesday,'' said Aaron Samuel to allnigeriasoccer.com after Monday's training session.

''I am not scared of facing their central defenders, with my experience and my desire towards the game.

''There is no big deal playing against them, the pitch is the same and they don't have two heads, though they are more experienced and are more exposed.

''Manchester United are a big team, we are going to be at our best against them.''

Samuel made his debut in the group stage of the Champions League against Benfica on September 12.



**Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24766

Exclusive: Rohr Ignores Calls To Drop Musa, Leicester Star Named In Nigeria Squad





Nigeria manager Gernot Rohr has extended an invitation to Leicester City star Ahmed Musa for the World Cup qualifier versus Zambia in Uyo on October 7.

Speculation had been rife in the local media that Rohr would axe Musa from the roster set to be released this week over his lack of game time at Leicester City but the German manager is having none of it after naming the winger in his squad list.

''It is one hundred percent confirmed that Musa has been named in the squad to face Zambia, and he has started making his travel arrangements,'' a Nigeria Football Federation insider told allnigeriasoccer.com .

''Nigeria Football Federation officials are in contact with him.''
Including the preliminary rounds, Musa has been involved in five matches out of a possible six in the World Cup qualifiers, and was an unused substitute against Cameroon in Yaounde earlier this month.

The former CSKA Moscow star was very impressive and unselfish in Leicester City's 2-0 win over Chelsea in a Premier League 2 match last Friday, setting up both goals scored by George Thomas.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24768

Alex Iwobi Instructed To Report For International Duty October 2


Arsenal winger Alex Iwobi is set to add to his international caps when Nigeria square off against Zambia in a crucial World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on October 7.

A top source close to the Nigeria Football Federation has informed allnigeriasoccer.com that the Hale End Academy product is among the players summoned for the meeting against the Chipolopolo.

Iwobi is expected to be among the last players to arrive the national team's get-together in Uyo, with Arsenal taking on Premier League newcomers Brighton & Hove at The Emirates Stadium on Sunday, October 1.

The Nigeria Football Federation have taken note of that fixture and instructed the former England U17 international to report for international duty latest Monday, October 2.

The 21-year-old had to withdraw from September's matches against African champions Cameroon after picking up an injury just before he was supposed to travel to Nigeria.

Iwobi scored his first international goal against Zambia on October 9, 2016.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24767

Nothing Official yet.... but the speculations rage on as regards the Super Eagles list for Zambia


Akpeyi Returns For WCQ Vs Zambia, Nwakaeme, Echiejile Also Called Up


According to information gathered by allnigeriasoccer.com , Chippa United goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has been recalled to the Super Eagles for their World Cup qualifier against Zambia next Saturday.

The former Warri Wolves star has sparkled since returning from an injury that kept him out of the World Cup qualifiers against Cameroon, posting two shutouts against Platinum Stars and Bloemfontein Celtic while conceding only one goal as the Chilli Boys were held to a 1-1 draw by SuperSport United in the penultimate round of matches.

Manager Gernot Rohr has an interesting goalkeeping decision to make ahead of the crucial match against Zambia, whether Akpeyi or Ikechukwu Ezenwa, who was a shadow of himself in the final of the WAFU Cup, will be his first-choice goalkeeper.

The German coach is sticking by Elderson Echiejile and has invited the Monaco loanee for the showdown in Uyo.
Other confirmed invitees include Abdullahi Shehu, William Troost-Ekong, Chidozie Awaziem, Leon Balogun, John Ogu, Uche Agbo, Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo, John Obi Mikel, Eddy Onazi, Moses Simon, Ahmed Musa, Alex Iwobi and Anthony Nwakaeme.

The Super Eagles camp will open in Uyo on Monday, October 2.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24769

Chidozie Awaziem Dazzles For Nantes Again, Gets New Nickname




Nigeria international defender Chidozie Awaziem post another fine performance for French side Nantes in their 2-1 win over Strasbourg in the French Ligue 1.

Awaziem posted another performance similar to the one that earned him a team of the week nomination last week in the win that lifted them to 5th on the log in France.

Last week the 20 year old played a very integral part in Nantes 1-0 win over Caen on his return from a three match ban owing to the red card he picked up before the international break.

Against Strasbourg particularly in the final ten minutes of the game, he was very solid in aerial duels and also read and intercepted play brilliantly to frustrate Strasbourg from reducing the deficit.

After the game fans of the club took to social media to praise his performance and in the process gave him a new nicknamed ” Le Roche”, which means “The Rock” in English.



**Michael James.

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/09/25/chidozie-awaziem-dazzles-for-nantes-again-gets-new-nickname/

Aina Loses Hull City MVP Award Vs Reading To Fraizer



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Former Manchester United striker Fraizer Campbell has been voted Hull City’s best player ahead of Super Eagles defender Ola Aina for their 1-1 away draw against Reading in the Championship on Saturday, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.
Hull made the announcement on their official website on Monday after the fans casted their votes for the four-man shortlist.

Campbell who scored Hull’s goal in the draw against Reading secured 53 per cent of the votes casted by the club’s fans to finish top.

Aina who joined Hull on loan from Chelsea during the last transfer window finished fourth with14 per cent.
Ex-Arsenal and Sunderland midfielder Seb Larsson was third with 15 per cent, while England 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup winner Fikayo Tomori was second with 18 per cent.

Since joining Hull, Aina has featured in all Hull’s nine league games this season.

Hull are currently 17th on nine points in the Championship league table.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/aina-loses-hull-city-mvp-award-vs-reading-fraizer/

Ex-Golden Eaglets Trainee Will Not Make Champions League Debut For Liverpool Vs Spartak




Former Golden Eaglets trainee Ovie Ejaria has to wait until October before learning if he'll make his UEFA Champions League debut for Liverpool as he has been left out of their traveling party to the Russian capital.

Reds manager Jurgen Klopp has omitted the England youth-teamer from the provisional squad to face Spartak Moscow at the Otkrytiye Arena (Moskva) on Tuesday night.

Ejaria was also snubbed by the German for the opening round of matches in Group E against Sevilla about two weeks ago.

England U21 star Dominic Solanke has been named in Liverpool's 21-man squad, but there is no place for exciting young winger Bobby Adekanye, who is eligible to play in the competition having spent more than two years at Anfield.

If Solanke features against Spartak, he is likely to be introduced off the bench, with the likes of Roberto Firmino, Mohamed Salah, Daniel Sturridge and Sadio Mané ahead of him in the pecking order of strikers.


Liverpool Provisional Squad: Karius, Mignolet, Ward, Lovren, Klavan, Moreno, Robertson, Matip, Flanagan, Alexander-Arnold, Wijnaldum, Milner, Henderson, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Can, Firmino, Coutinho, Salah, Sturridge, Mane, Solanke


**Igho Kingsley
Photo Credit : liverpoolfc.com

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24770

ABRAHAM: SWANSEA CITY ARE BETTER THAN CURRENT RESULTS
By Taiye Taiwo




Following Saturday’s defeat, the 19-year-old hopes the Swans can pick themselves up and show their true capabilities to get desired results

Tammy Abraham believes Saturday’s defeat to Watford, is not a true reflection of the quality in Swansea City team.

A late winner from Richarlison condemned Paul Clement's side to their third defeat of the campaign at the Liberty Stadium, after Abraham who was introduced as a second half substitute cancelled out Andre Gray’s opener for Watford.

With just a win from six league games, the 19-year-old has charged his teammates to put things right and stay fired up for their next league game against West Ham United.


“It is a disappointing result. We knew at half-time it was not good enough. The gaffer made changes and we came alive in the second half,” Abraham told club’s website.

“We did well to get back into the game and levelled things up, but we conceded in the last minute which was a big downer for us.

“We felt we could go on and win the game when we equalised. We went all out to win but lost the ball on the counter attack.

“We know we are better than what we are showing and we need to pick ourselves up.
“We have more games to put things right. Now we have to go to West Ham and fight for the win.”


Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/we-are-better-than-what-we-are-showing-tammy-abraham-calls/hhjty3jyn69q1mulktt6kl61z

I SNUBBED EUROPEAN CLUBS TO JOIN CAPE TOWN CITY, SAYS VICTOR NSOFOR
By Gbenga Adewoye, Correspondent




The forward has revealed that he rejected bids from clubs in Europe to team up with the Blue and Gold Army

Victor Obinna has declared that he snubbed offers from Europe to join South Africa’s side Cape Town City.
The former Lokomotiv Moscow goal poacher linked up with Benni McCarthy’s side as a free agent and penned a year contract.
And the 30-year-old has affirmed that the desire to return ’ home’ propelled him to take up the new challenge and having played with the gaffer while at West Ham United it was easy for him to make up his mind on the Cape Town outfit.

"I had other offers in Europe but this move was the right one for me, it feels great to return home playing again on African soil," Obinna told BBC Sport.

"But to play football to the fullest of your abilities, you have to be happy.

"So Cape Town City FC with its ambitions and objectives, as well as Cape Town as a city convinced me and my family to come over here."
“The coach Benni McCarthy and I played together during our time at West Ham United and we had a fantastic relationship together.

"He's a great guy and played a major role in luring me back to Africa and especially to Cape Town.

"My targets are the same as the clubs target which is to challenge for league and to win the finals of the MTN 8 trophy [domestic league cup]."


Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/victor-obinna-snubbed-offers-in-europe-to-join-cape-town/1iop4ct6alkoi1na4l1sqjc0ti

Nigeria may stage 2018 WAFU Cup after successful Ghana relaunch




SCORENigeria has again scooped that there are strong indications Nigeria will stage next year’s WAFU Cup of Nations after the successful relaunch of the sub-regional tournament in Ghana.

Nigeria have staged this annual competition in 2008 and 2009 during which time the likes of Ahmed Musa and Gbolahan Salami came to the fore.

An insider simply told SCORENigeria: “Some of the top organisers are now looking favourably at Nigeria hosting the WAFU Cup next year.

“This year’s competition has been a huge success with great attendances, superb organisation and huge media visibility.
“And to think of it, the organisers told me they had only four months to put everything together.”

However, teams at this year’s tournament have complained of the match scheduling, saying the matches are too close and that has affected their performances.

The timing of the competition as well as a squad of 18 players were also some talking points by the teams.

It has been suggested that the competition be staged at the end of the leagues of the various WAFU countries, while the squads be increased to at least 21 to allow for the teams to have more players available for selection.
It would be recalled that Niger had to hurriedly draft a third goalkeeper for their semi-final against Ghana after injury ruled out their first choice for the rest of the competition and the second goalkeeper was sent off in a final group game.

Thanks to new sponsors FOX Sports TV, the WAFU Cup champions will pocket $100,000, while the beaten finalists are entitled to $50,000.


Credit: ScoreNigeria


Source: http://mobile.ghanasoccernet.com/nigeria-may-stage-2018-wafu-cup-after-successful-ghana-relaunch

Nigerian side Enyimba FC to lure WAFU winning coach Maxwell Konadu with tasty offer





Enyimba FC have put up an audacious bid to sign local Black Stars coach Maxwell Konadu after his show of tactical brilliance in the just ended WAFU competition.

The Nigerian side finished third in the just ended league and will be competing in the CAF Confederation Cup this season.
Konadu has redeemed his image by leading the home-based club to win the regional competition, thrashing rivals Nigeria 4-1 in the final.

The triumph is particularly sweet for the former Asante Kotoko coach after he had his credibility and competence questioned after an embarrassing home defeat by Burkina Faso last month.

Konadu now has returned to his rightful place among the continents best technical brains after engineering Ghana’s success.

GHANAsoccernet.com understand’s that Enyimba’s officials have already made contact with the coach but will fly to Ghana to hold further talks.
The former Ghana international is most likely to take the job given that he has been demoted as the first assistant of Ghana’s senior national.


Source: http://mobile.ghanasoccernet.com/nigerian-side-enyimba-fc-to-lure-wafu-winning-coach-maxwell-konadu-with-tasty-offer

PAUL ONUACHU SCORES TENTH GOAL OF THE SEASON IN DENMARK
By Gbenga Adewoye, Correspondent



The 23-year-old was on song as the Wolves breezed past the Whites in a Danish top-flight outing on Monday evening


Nigeria’s Paul Onuachu scored his tenth goal of the season to help Midtjylland to a 3-0 victory over AGF in a Danish Superliga fixture.
The striker registered the first goal of the encounter when he fired home in the 25th minutes courtesy of Jakob Poulsen’s assist.
Poulsen then doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 69th minutes before Marc Dal Hende sealed the win at the death after receiving a true pass from Onuachu.


The result takes MCH Arena outfit to the second spot on the log with 19 points from ten games and will host AaB in their next league game on Sunday.

Source: http://www.goal.com/en-ng/news/paul-onuachu-fires-tenth-goal-of-the-season-in-denmark/u4kml6rrved012prxk3rl52wj

Kudos bro.
Following 100%

Former Flying Eagles Captain On Target Against Barcelona B In La Liga 2



Former Flying Eagles captain Ramon Azeez opened his goalscoring account for his new employer CD Lugo as they beat Barcelona B 2-1 in a La Liga 2 clash staged at Mini Estadi on Monday night.

With almost the last action of the first half, the central midfielder equalized for the visitors when his header beat goalkeeper Jokin Ezkieta after Fede Vico's delightful ball into the box.

Azeez, who made his sixth straight appearance in the Spanish second-tier, was happy to score his first goal for CD Lugo.

''I am very happy with the goal, but more with the victory in a field like this, which is very important for the team,'' said Ramon Azeez to cdlugo.com.

''We knew how dangerous they were and how they could do us. We prepared a lot during the week to put up with everything they could do.''

Future Pro Academy product Azeez ended his six-year association with Almeria by penning a three-year contract with CD Lugo this summer.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Photo Credit : instagram.com/azeez_ramon12

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24774

Liverpool Loanee Taiwo Awoniyi Favourite To Clinch Player Of The Month Award





On loan Liverpool forward Taiwo Awoniyi is prime to be voted the player of the month for his loan side Mouscron, Owngoalnigeria.com understands.

Awoniyi scored thrice and also has two assists in the month under review and also impressed with his all round play especially in the games he didn’t get to score.

The lanky 19 year old has been ever present for Mouscron since joining them on loan from Liverpool, a much better showing than his previous loan spells with FSV Frankurt and NEC Nijemegan respectively.

His form has already made him a popular member of the team, and the title of player of the month, if he gets to win it will further lift his spirit and propel him to a new height.


**Osas Mahawi


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/09/25/liverpool-loanee-taiwo-awoniyi-favourite-to-clinch-player-of-the-month-award/

Alex Iwobi Battling To Be Fit For Nigeria World Cup 2018 Qualifiers Tie Against Zambia




Arsenal forward Alex Iwobi is in danger of missing Nigeria World Cup 2018 Qualifiers tie against Zambia in Uyo due to an injury picked up in training with the English side.
Iwobi missed Arsenal 2-0 win over West Bromwich Albion, and early report suggest injury was why he failed to make the matchday squad for the game played at the Emirates.

The scorer of Nigeria’s first goal in their 2-1 win away to Zambia in Ndola is now in a race against time to be fit for the game, where a win will seal Nigeria’s passage to the World Cup in Russia..

He was dropped from Nigeria’s last squad that picked up four valuable points in back to back games against Cameroon due to a knock, and it is yet unknown if he is suffering from same injury.


**Michael James


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/09/25/alex-iwobi-battling-to-be-fit-for-nigeria-world-cup-2018-qualifiers-tie-against-zambia/

Chidera “Nigerian Iniesta” Ejike Steals The Headline In Norway After Superb Solo Goal For Valenrenga




19 year old Nigerian forward Chidera Ejike popularly referred to as Nigerian Iniesta scored a brilliant solo goal to propel Valerenga to a 2-1 win over Brann.

The manner which he scored the goal, which was his first in the league for the club he joined in the summer has made him one of the most talked about player in Norway at the moment.

Before scoring what ended as the winner for his side, he firstly set up the first goal which gave his team the lead in the game, and he almost doubled their lead from a rebound but he somehow skied his effort wide with the goalkeeper beaten.

However seven minutes from full time, he went on a mazy solo run, gliding past his markers with ease before unleashing a low shot which gave his team all three points.

Ejike had a two week trial at Liverpool last season, but the club opt against offering him a contract, leaving the quick, tricky and prolific wing forward with no option but to return back to Nigeria.

He teamed up with Supreme Court FC in Abuja, before his move to Nigeria Professional Football League side Gombe United, where he impressed scouts of Valenrenga during a tournament in Abuja.

**Shedrack Obi


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/09/25/chidera-nigerian-iniesta-ejike-steals-the-headline-in-norway-after-superb-solo-goal-for-valenrenga/

Exclusive – Swiss FA Turn Down FC Zurich Appeal To Register Stephen Odey



Stephen Odey’s proposed move to Switzerland top division side FC Zurich has suffered a major hiccup but still not enough for the move not to happen, Owngoalnigeria.com can exclusively reveal.
As first reported by this portal, the registration of the19 year old MFM forward failed to beat the close of the Transfer Matching System (TMS) on transfer deadline day.

The club appealed the decision as it was caused by poor network connectivity in Nigeria, but reports reaching Owngoalnigeria.com has it that their appeal was unsuccessful.

However the club won’t pull the plug on the deal, rather they will keep the forward with them until the transfer window opens for fresh registration of players in January.

Odey in the meantime will remain at the club, and train with the team, and also play test games for both the first team and the reserve team to help build his fitness ahead of his debut next year.


**Daniel Martins

Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/09/25/exclusive-swiss-fa-turn-down-fc-zurich-appeal-to-register-stephen-odey/

Blame it on the Homebased Eagles' loss to Benin Republic in the CHAN qualifiers first leg.... but don't worry Onazi, the next rankings will take into account the Cameroun games and all

FIFA Rankings Not True Reflection of Nigeria’s Current Status, Says Onazi



Following Nigeria’s recent drop in the monthly FIFA rankings, Super Eagles’ Assistant Captain, Ogenyi Onazi, has dismissed the rankings, stressing that it is not a true reflection and position of the team’s current form and achievement.

Speaking to AOIFootball.com from his base in Turkey, the power-playing midfielder, opined that the team has had more wins than loses which should have reflected their actual position on the monthly rankings, but that he was shocked instead of the team’s drop from six places to 44th.

“I find this worrisome. How can we drop from 38th to 44th after recording almost 70 percent wins this year in all our matches and even against great oppositions like Togo, Cameroon and even recorded a draw in a friendly against highly-rated Senegal?

“I thought it should be an accumulation of our games, including the wins against Zambia and Algeria,” the Trabzonspor of Turkey midfielder reasoned.

The former Lazio FC of Italy player, however sounded optimistic that the Super Eagles will have a good ranking ahead of the World Cup draw after sealing her qualification spot for next year’s soccer showpiece in Russia.

“I hope the rankings at the end of the qualifiers will be fair to us to get a favourable draw, after we must have qualified for the World Cup by the grace of God,” he said.

Nigeria will file out against the Chipolopolo of Zambia next month at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, a game that should seal the World Cup ticket after victory is ensured.


Source: http://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2017/09/26/fifa-rankings-not-true-reflection-of-nigerias-current-status-says-onazi/

Eagles Get N24m Despite Defeat in WAFU Cup Final
LMC urges CHAN Eagles to build on gains of WAFU Experience
By Duro Ikhazuagbe


Despite being beaten 4-1 in Sunday’s West African Football Union (WAFU) Cup of Nations final by eternal rival, Ghana, the home-based Super Eagles pocketed $65,000 (about N24 million) as runners up of the sub-regional tournament.

Although Ghana’s Black Stars walked away from the Cape Coast Stadium with the ultimate star prize of $100,000 (about N36million) offered by FOX Sports, sponsors of the two-week WAFU Cup tournament, the home-based Eagles were consoled knowing they were not returning to Abuja empty-handed.

A break down of the prize money outlay showed that the first place prize was $100,000 while the runners up prize was $50,000. Niger Republic that defeated Benin Republic 2-1 got the third-placed prize of $25,000. The Squirrels of Benin got $10,000 as the fourth place finished team.

In addition to the prizes for the final and the losers’ final, they all got participation fees of $15,000 each.

The four semi final losing teams got $10,000 each while the four second round losers were consoled with $5,000 each.

Ghana defeated Nigeria 4-1 to avenge an earlier group stage 2-0 defeat they suffered in the hands of the Super Eagles who needed the win to qualify for the semifinals.
Goals from Stephen Sarfo (brace), Winnful Cobbina and Vincent Atingah set the Black Stars on a rollercoaster ride until Rabiu Ali’s late strike from a free-kick proved to be only a consolation.

Eagles Chief Coach, Salisu Yusuf admitted Nigeria lost to a better Ghanaian team. He hoped that his wards have learnt a lesson from the tournament ahead of the African Nations Championships.

“We lost to a good team and they (Ghana) deserved to win because they took their chances and it was a good lesson for us,” the former Kano Pillars coach said in his post-match reaction to AOIFootball.com.

Meanwhile, Players and officials of the home-based Super Eagles to the just ended WAFU tournament in Ghana have received commendations from the League Management Company (LMC).
The topflight league body urged them to build on the lessons learnt from the sub-continental championship for the 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

The players were drawn from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) organised by the LMC.
LMC Chairman, Shehu Dikko who was at the finals on Sunday, said he was impressed by the fight in the players that saw them come from the brink of ouster at the group stage to reach the finals.

“Winning the trophy would no doubt have been delightful, but the LMC is happy for the exposure the players have gained from playing in an international tournament of this nature and more importantly, it is a learning curve for them ahead the 2018 CHAN”, stated Dikko.

The LMC described the tournament as a ‘win-win’ for domestic football in Nigeria and the entire West Africa, noting that the strength of West African football can be seen in the dominance of West African teams to recent World Cup tournaments.


Dikko also noted that the tournament has offered the players and coaches more time to bond and understand each other as compared to when they were just invited to camp to play for the CHAN qualifiers, adding, “It is our belief that a lot has been learnt on the side of the coaches and on the side of the players.
Whatever gaps were observed at the WAFU tournament will be the tool to improve the team going forward”.


TOTAL MONETARY GAINS BY TOP 4 FINISHING TEAMS

WINNER: GHANA – $115,000 + Participation fee

RUNNER UP: NIGERIA – $65,000 + Participation fee

3RD PLACE: NIGER – $40,000 + Participation fee

4TH PLACE: BENIN – $25,000 + Participation fee


Source: http://www.thisdaylive.com/index.php/2017/09/26/eagles-get-n24m-despite-defeat-in-wafu-cup-final/

Enyimba dismiss link with WAFU Cup winning Ghanaian coach
By Christian Okpara

Maxwell Konadu

Enyimba yesterday dismissed reports that they were about signing Coach Maxwell Konadu , who just led Ghana to the 2017 WAFU Cup of Nations victory over Nigeria .

After Ghana’s 4 - 1 defeat of Nigeria , there were media reports that Enyimba had started talks with the coach , who is also an assistant manager in the main Black Stars ’ team.

Yesterday , Ghanasoccernet . com reported that Enyimba have ‘ put up an audacious bid to sign Konadu after his show of tactical brilliance in the just ended WAFU competition .’

The ‘Peoples Elephant ’ finished third in the just ended Nigerian Professional Football League ( NPFL ) and will compete in the CAF Confederation Cup this season .

Hyping Konadu’ s credential , the report said the coach has redeemed his image by leading the home - based team to win the regional competition . It added that the former Asante Kotoko coach had his credibility and competence questioned after an embarrassing home defeat by Burkina Faso last month .

“ Enyimba ’ s officials have already made contact with the coach but will fly to Ghana to hold further talks . The former Ghana international is most likely to take the job given that he has been demoted as the first assistant of Ghana ’ s senior national team, ” it said.

Dismissing the report yesterday , Enyimba ’ s Jude Anyadufu said the former African champions were looking for a coach , adding , “ We are satisfied with our coach , so I don ’ t know where that story is coming from . Ignore it , there is no truth in it .”


Source: https://m.guardian.ng/sport/enyimba-dismiss-link-with-wafu-cup-winning-ghanaian-coach/

Rohr calls up Mikel, Moses, Ighalo, 20 others for Zambia



Super Eagles’ Technical Adviser, Gernot Rohr, has called up 23 players for next week’s all –important 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying showdown against the Chipolopolo of Zambia in Uyo.

Skipper Mikel John Obi and forward Odion Ighalo (both based in China) and England –based Victor Moses, who bossed the two encounters against Cameroon earlier this month, retained their places, but Portugal –based goalkeeper Dele Alampasu dropped down to the standby sector alongside wing back Tyronne Ebuehi, and South Africa –based Daniel Akpeyi and Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi return after injury knocked them out of the sessions against the African champions.


The list is essentially the same personnel that decimated the Indomitable Lions, with defenders Leon Balogun, Abdullahi Shehu, William Ekong and Elderson Echiejile, midfielders Wilfred Ndidi, Ogenyi Onazi and Oghenekaro Etebo and forwards Ahmed Musa, Kelechi Iheanacho, Moses Simon, and Anthony Nwakaeme also included.

Two home –based professionals, Ifeanyi Ifeanyi and Afeez Aremu, who were part of the Super Eagles B that finished as runners –up at the just –concluded WAFU Cup of Nations in Ghana, are in the standy sector but will join the team’s training sessions in Uyo.

Nigeria welcome Zambia on Saturday, 7th October at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, with the minimum win to guarantee a sixth FIFA World Cup appearance in Russia next year summer ahead of the final qualifying match away to Algeria in November.

All invited players are to report in Uyo on Monday, 2nd October 2017.

THE FULL LIST

Goalkeepers : Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United, South Africa); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (FC IfeanyiUbah); Ayodele Ajiboye (Plateau United FC)

Defenders : William Ekong (Bursaspor FC, Turkey); Abdullahi Shehu (Anorthosis Famagusta, Cyprus); Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany); Elderson Echiejile (Sivasspor FC, Turkey); Uche Agbo (Standard Liege, Belgium); Chidozie Awaziem
(Nantes FC, France); Olaoluwa Aina (Hull City, England)


Midfielders : Mikel John Obi (Tianjin Teda, China); Ogenyi Onazi (Trabzonspor FC, Turkey); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Oghenekaro Etebo (CD Feirense, Portugal); John Ogu (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel); Mikel Agu (Bursaspor FC, Turkey)


Forwards : Ahmed Musa (Leicester City, England); Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England); Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium); Alex Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England); Odion Ighalo (Chang Chun-Yatai, China); Victor Moses (Chelsea FC, England); Anthony Nwakaeme (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel)



STANDBY: Dele Alampasu (Cesarense FC, Portugal); Tyronne Ebuehi (ADO Den Haag, The Netherlands); Aaron Samuel (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Afeez Aremu (Akwa United); Ifeanyi Ifeanyi (Akwa United)


Source: http://www.thenff.com/2017/09/rohr-calls-mikel-moses-ighalo-20-others-zambia/

Everton 4 Arsenal 2 PL2 : 16-Year-Old Balogun Debuts, Eyoma Bags Assist




Promising Nigerian striker Folarin Balogun made his maiden appearance for Arsenal U23s in their 4-2 loss to Everton in the sixth round of matches in Premier League 2 on Monday night.
But the highly-rated 16-year-old wasn't the only Nigerian youngster involved at Haig Avenue (Southport, Merseyside), with Tolaji Bola, Joseph Olowu and Aaron Eyoma starting for the Gunners and new signing Dennis Adeniran logging 90 minutes for the Toffees.
Aaron Eyoma showed his creativity when he provided the assist for the opening goal of the contest scored by Marcus McGuane after ten minutes.
Donkor and Evans scored to give the home team a one-goal cushion before McGuane netted his second of the night on 77 minutes.
Arsenal crumbled in the final eight minutes with Antony Evans and Henen scoring to secure a win for Everton.
Folarin Balogun, who leads Arsenal's scoring charts in the U18 Premier League with four goals to his name, made his debut for the U23s as an 88th minute substitute, teammates James Olayinka and Tobi Omole were unused substitutes.


**Ifeanyi Emmanuel
Photo Credit : arsenal.com


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24775

Mikel, Ighalo To Land In Nigeria Weekend For Zambia Clash
By Johnny Edward




Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi and striker Odion Ighalo are expected to arrive in Nigeria this weekend ahead of the key 2018 World Cup qualifier against Zambia at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on 7 October, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.
Both players have been named in the Super Eagles squad to face the Chipolopolo of Zambia.

Mikel will lead his Chinese Super League team (CSL) Tianjin TEDA out in a league game against Guizhou Zhicheng on Wednesday while Ighalo’s Changchun Yatai having played out a goalless draw against Hebei CFFC last Sunday will not feature in the CSL until the 13th of October.

Tianjin TEDA are 14th in the 16 team CSL table but with a superior goal difference of -5 ahead of Yanbian Funde who have amassed the same number of points as Mikel’s team.

The 30-year-old Mikel is poised to make his 81st international appearance for the Super Eagles having scored six times, while Ighalo will look to score his fifth goal for the three time African champions when he steps out for the 13th time in a green and white jersey for Nigeria.

Completesportsnigeria.com gathered that the Super Eagles preparation for the game will begin on the 2nd of October at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

Also expected to make a return to the super Eagles is Arsenal forward Alex Iwobi. The 21-year-old missed the double header against Cameroon earlier this month with injury. Iwobi is expected in Uyo on Monday after featuring for Arsenal in their English Premier League home clash against Brighton Hove Albion at the Emirates.

Other players expected to be named in the Super Eagles squad (Squad already released) for the crucial game are Hapoel Beer Sheva duo of John Ogu and Anthony Nwakeame, Ogenyi Onazi, Shehu Abdulahi, Elderson Echiejile, Victor Moses, Moses Simon, Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo, Leon Balogun and William Troost-Ekong.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/mikel-ighalo-land-nigeria-weekend/

NIGERIA VS ZAMBIA: Mikel, Ighalo, Moses, Balogun In; Akpeyi, Iwobi Return; Omeruo Out
By James Agberebi




Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi, Chelsea wing-back Victor Moses and Odion Ighalo head a 23-man squad invited by Gernot Rohr for the crucial FIFA 2018 World Cup Russia qualifier against Chipolopolo of Zambia in Uyo on October 7.

The 23-man squad was officially announced on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) website on Tuesday.

The duo of Alex Iwobi and Daniel Akpeyi make a return to the team after injury knocked them out of the double header against Cameroon.

Other players who made the cut are Ogenyi Onazi, Leon Balogun, William Troost-Ekong, Ola Aina, Elderson Echiejile, Chidozie Awaziem, Abdullahi Shehu, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Dele Ajiboye and Wilfred Ndidi.

Also called up are John Ogu, Anthony Nwakaeme, Oghenekaro Etebo, Mikel Agu, Moses Simon, Kelechi Iheanacho, Ahmed Musa and Uche Agbo.

Meanwhile, five players are placed on standby. The players are Tyronne Ebuehi, Dele Alampasu, Aaron Samuel and WAFU Cup and Akwa United stars Afeez Aremu and Ifeanyi Ifeanyi.
There is no room in the squad for Kasimpasa defender Kenneth Omeruo.

All invited players are expected to report in Uyo on Monday, 2nd October 2017.

The Super Eagles top Group A on 10 points after four rounds of games, while Zambia are second on seven points.

The group’s other game will see Cameroon (three points) and Algeria (one point) who have already been eliminated from qualifying for the 2018 World Cup, square off in Yaounde.


THE FULL LIST

Goalkeepers (3): Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United, South Africa); Ikechukwu Ezenwa (FC IfeanyiUbah); Ayodele Ajiboye (Plateau United FC)

Defenders (7): William Ekong (Bursaspor FC, Turkey); Abdullahi Shehu (Anorthosis Famagusta, Cyprus); Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany); Elderson Echiejile (Sivasspor FC, Turkey); Uche Agbo (Standard Liege, Belgium); Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France); Olaoluwa Aina (Hull City, England)


Midfielders (6): Mikel John Obi (Tianjin Teda, China); Ogenyi Onazi (Trabzonspor FC, Turkey); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Oghenekaro Etebo (CD Feirense, Portugal); John Ogu (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel); Mikel Agu (Bursaspor FC, Turkey)


Forwards (7): Ahmed Musa (Leicester City, England); Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England); Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium); Alex Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England); Odion Ighalo (Chang Chun-Yatai, China); Victor Moses (Chelsea FC, England); Anthony Nwakaeme (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel)



STANDBY: Dele Alampasu (Cesarense FC, Portugal); Tyronne Ebuehi (ADO Den Haag, The Netherlands); Aaron Samuel (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Afeez Aremu (Akwa United); Ifeanyi Ifeanyi (Akwa United).


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nigeria-vs-zambia-mikel-ighalo-moses-balogun-akpeyi-iwobi-return-omeruo-iwobi-akpeyi-returns/

Zambia Coach Nyirenda Warns Players To Be Psychologically Ready For Nigeria
By Kayode Ogundare




Chipolopolo coach Wedson Nyirenda has cranked up the pressure ahead of the October 7 monster clash against Nigeria in Uyo by warning his players to either be mentally ready for the group leaders or else the players will be shown the door, according to reports in Zambian media.

Nyirenda set the tone for the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier by psyching his players that the match against the Super Eagles will be highly psychological hence the need to be mentally ready.

“This game will be highly psychological, therefore we are working on their mental strength before the match. Every player and everyone on our bench know and believe that this time is our time. God can only show you the fish and it up to you to fish it out,” he said.

“Looking at the way we worked against Algeria home and away it tells a lot of stories. The boys now know and believe it can be done. Nigeria is a different team we are not going to be big headed because we beat Algeria we are focussed on looking at Nigeria only.”


Nyirenda, a former national team star also said that players need to prove themselves to earn a position in the team.

“No player is indispensable and there is no permanent position for anyone. If you show you can do it, we will give you the chance, that’s my principle. I don’t give chance because you are my father’s son from another mother; you just have to do what we want. The players need to work, this is not time to party. We are in for a very big battle, we need to do it for the fans and the country.”

Nigeria and Zambia are locked in the battle for the sole ticket from Group B and the game in Uyo could be the decider. Three points separate the two teams and a win for Nigeria will hand the Super Eagles a sixth World Cup ticket while any other result will ensure that the battle go down till the last day when Nigeria travel to Algeria while Zambia play at home to Cameroon.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/zambia-coach-nyirenda-warns-players-psychologically-ready-nigeria/

How Aina Displaced Dutch-Nigerian Ebuehi In Super Eagles Squad For Zambia Clash



Coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria Gernot Rohr released his 23 man squad with six players on standby for the upcoming all important World Cup 2018 Qualifiers tie against Zambia in Uyo.

The one major surprise aside Dele Ajiboye pushing Dele Alampasu from the main list to the standby list has to be the demotion of ADO Deen Haag full back Tyronne Ebuehi to the standby list.

Rohr convinced the 21 year old full back to commit his international future to Nigeria ahead of the Netherlands, in what was a long drawn saga with the player initially turning down the first invitation to the team.

However he subsequently agreed to a switch of allegiance, but since agreeing to play for Nigeria he is yet to make his competitive debut as Shehu Abdullahi has cemented the right back slot.

He was however still a member of the team in their previous games, but after on loan Chelsea defender Ola Aina switched allegiance to Nigeria from England, the country he represented at youth level, competition became fierce for the right back slot.

Aina edged Ebuehi with his physical style of play, an area where Ebuehi is yet to convince Rohr although he is technically sound and extremely quick in turning defence into attack.

Rohr still views Abdullahi as his first choice right back, but instead of Ebuehi he believes Aina will give the Anorthosis Famagusta man a strong fight for the team’s right back position.

Also Aina is also very comfortable as a left back, one area where the Super Eagles of Nigeria are still short of options with Elderson Echiejile the only viable option who has the trust of the coach.


**Ade Emmanuel


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/09/26/how-aina-displaced-dutch-nigerian-ebuehi-in-super-eagles-squad-for-zambia-clash/

Eyoma Emulates Chelsea Duo Moses & Ugbo, Named In England U17 World Cup Roster




Timothy Eyoma is set to become the fourth player of Nigerian descent to feature for England at the Fifa U17 World Cup, with manager Steve Cooper including the Tottenham Hotspur starlet in a 21-player roster for the tournament in India.
Barring injury, Eyoma is set to add to his international caps at this level when the competition begins on October 6, as he was the first-choice right-back at the 2017 European Under-17 Championship, and was an unused substitute in the final against Spain due to injury.

Chelsea right wing-back Victor Moses became the first player of Nigerian descent to feature for the Young Lions at the Fifa U17 World Cup when he started as England were held to a 1-1 draw by North Korea on August 18, 2007, and Chelsea product Tom Taiwo also featured during the competition.

The Super Eagle registered his name on the score-sheet in matches against New Zealand and North Korea, and finished the tournament with three goals.

Talented Chelsea striker Ike Ugbo, who has been loaned out to Barnsley this season, recorded three appearances for the Young Lions at the 2015 Fifa U17 World Cup in Chile.

England will face Chile, Mexico and Iraq in the group stage of the 2017 Fifa U17 World Cup in India, which runs from October 6-28.


England U17 World Cup Roster

Goalkeepers (3) : Curtis Anderson (Manchester City), Josef Bursik (Stoke City), William Crelin (Fleetwood Town)


Defenders ( : Timothy Eyoma (Tottenham Hotspur), Morgan Gibbs White (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Lewis Gibson (Everton), Marc Guéhi (Chelsea), Joel Latibeaudiere (Manchester City), Tashan Oakley Boothe (Tottenham Hotspur), Jonathan Panzo (Chelsea), Steven Sessegnon (Fulham)


Midfielders (4) : Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Angel Gomes (Manchester United), Nya Kirby (Crystal Palace), George McEachran (Chelsea)


Attackers (6) : Rhian Brewster (Liverpool), Philip Foden (Manchester City), Callum Hudson Odoi (Chelsea), Danny Loader (Reading), Jadon Sancho (Borussia Dortmund), Emile Smith Rowe (Arsenal)


**Igho Kingsley
Photo Credit : thefa.com

Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=24779