Want to help decide who The Best is? Well, your window of opportunity is almost shut. The polls for the men’s and women’s player and coach awards will close at midnight CEST on Friday 10 August.

Get your votes in before it’s too late! Those cast by fans will help make up 25 per cent of the nominees’ overall votes, receiving an equal weight to those from national team coaches, national team captains and journalists.
You could help your favourite take to the stage in London on 24 September and be crowned as The Best in their field. Pick your top three from this year’s shortlists, with your first choice receiving five points, your second getting three points and one point for your third.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lieke Martens walked away as The Best FIFA Men’s Player and The Best FIFA Women’s Player a year ago, while Zinedine Zidane and Sarina Wiegman were named The Best FIFA Men’s Coach and The Best FIFA Woman’s Coach.
Don’t delay! Make your choices now before you miss out. See below for a reminder of the candidates.

The Best FIFA Men’s Player
Cristiano Ronaldo (POR)
Kevin de Bruyne (BEL)
Antoine Griezmann (FRA)
Eden Hazard (BEL)
Harry Kane (ENG)
Kylian Mbappe (FRA)
Lionel Messi (ARG)
Luka Modric (CRO)
Mohamed Salah (EGY)
Raphael Varane (FRA)
The Best FIFA Player
Men Women
Cristiano Ronaldo (POR) Lucy Bronze (ENG)
Kevin de Bruyne (BEL) Pernille Harder (DEN)
Antoine Griezmann (FRA) Ada Hegerberg (NOR)
Eden Hazard (BEL) Amandine Henry (FRA)
Harry Kane (ENG) Samantha Kerr (AUS)
Kylian Mbappe (FRA) Saki Kumagai (JPN)
Lionel Messi (ARG) Dzsenifer Marozsan (GER)
Luka Modric (CRO) Marta (BRA)
Mohamed Salah (EGY) Megan Rapinoe (USA)
Raphael Varane (FRA) Wendie Renard (FRA)

Read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/08/09/one-day-left-to-vote/

Want to help decide who The Best is? Well, your window of opportunity is almost shut. The polls for the men’s and women’s player and coach awards will close at midnight CEST on Friday 10 August.

Get your votes in before it’s too late! Those cast by fans will help make up 25 per cent of the nominees’ overall votes, receiving an equal weight to those from national team coaches, national team captains and journalists.
You could help your favourite take to the stage in London on 24 September and be crowned as The Best in their field. Pick your top three from this year’s shortlists, with your first choice receiving five points, your second getting three points and one point for your third.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lieke Martens walked away as The Best FIFA Men’s Player and The Best FIFA Women’s Player a year ago, while Zinedine Zidane and Sarina Wiegman were named The Best FIFA Men’s Coach and The Best FIFA Woman’s Coach.
Don’t delay! Make your choices now before you miss out. See below for a reminder of the candidates.

The Best FIFA Men’s Player
Cristiano Ronaldo (POR)
Kevin de Bruyne (BEL)
Antoine Griezmann (FRA)
Eden Hazard (BEL)
Harry Kane (ENG)
Kylian Mbappe (FRA)
Lionel Messi (ARG)
Luka Modric (CRO)
Mohamed Salah (EGY)
Raphael Varane (FRA)
The Best FIFA Player
Men Women
Cristiano Ronaldo (POR) Lucy Bronze (ENG)
Kevin de Bruyne (BEL) Pernille Harder (DEN)
Antoine Griezmann (FRA) Ada Hegerberg (NOR)
Eden Hazard (BEL) Amandine Henry (FRA)
Harry Kane (ENG) Samantha Kerr (AUS)
Kylian Mbappe (FRA) Saki Kumagai (JPN)
Lionel Messi (ARG) Dzsenifer Marozsan (GER)
Luka Modric (CRO) Marta (BRA)
Mohamed Salah (EGY) Megan Rapinoe (USA)
Raphael Varane (FRA) Wendie Renard (FRA)

Read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/08/09/one-day-left-to-vote/

By Ihunanya okoye

It was a colourful and memorable event as more than 52 countries participated in the opening ceremony March Past of the 2018 CAA in Asaba Delta State
The names of the countries are listed below:
Algeria Angola
Benin Botswana
Burkina faso Burundi
Cameroon Cape Verde
Chad. Central Africa Republic
Comoros Island Congo DR
Congo Cotedivoire
Djibouti Egypt
Eritrea Equatorial Guinea
Ethiopia. Gabon
Gambia. Ghana
Guinea. Kenya
Guinea Bissau Lesotho
Liberia. Libya
Madagascar. Malawi
Mali Mauritius
Morocco Mozambique
Rwanda. Niger
Nigeria. Senegal
Seychelles. Sierra Leone
South Africa Somalia
Sao Tome and Principe South Sudan
Sudan. Swaziland
Tanzania Togo
Tunisia. Uganda
Zambia Zanzibar
Zimbabwe

Read more : http://aipsafrica.com/2018/08/02/more-than-52-countries-hoist-their-flags-at-the-2018-caa-in-asaba/

By Ihunanya Okoye

Amidst distraction by fans in the main bowl of the Stephen Keshi stadium Asaba, Delta State, President Muhammadu Buhari urged athletes at the 2018 Africa Senior Athletics Championship (CAA) to imbibe the spirit of sportsmanship and eschew any vice that can cause disunity at the Games.

Represented by the Minister of Sports, Solomon Dalung during the opening ceremony of the CAA, President Buhari thanked all who made the competition a success.

In his own remarks, the IAAF President Sebastian Coe said it was a pleasure for him to attend the championship adding that the CAA is a platform for African athletes to showcase their talents. He congratulated the Delta State Governor for erecting the Stephen Keshi stadium while wishing the athletes luck in their endeavours.

The CAA President, Hamad Kalkaba expressed happiness on the preparedness of Asaba to host the competition and anticipates a good outing for the athletes.

In a brief speech, the host governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa welcomed all the 52 countries that graced the championship adding that he is delighted to see the unprecedented day. Moreover, he prayed that the athletes will enjoy their stay in the city.

Prior to the opening ceremony of the Asaba 2018 CAA, Ethiopian duo of Jemal Yimer and Anduamlak Belihu won Gold and Silver for Their country in the 10,000m. Yimer won in the time of 29.09.17.

Great entertainers ranging from cultural group, calisthenics and popular musicians such as Harrysong and Phyno all performed amazingly to the admiration of the spectators.

Read more : http://aipsafrica.com/2018/08/02/president-buhari-urges-caa-athletes-to-embrace-peace-and-unity/

World Cup Final: France v Croatia, 15 July, Luzhniki Stadium (Moscow)
Croatia competing in first-ever World Cup Final
Our Croatia team reporter gives three reasons why Vatreni would be deserving champions
The 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Final is just around the corner, as 1998 winners France prepare to face first-time finalists Croatia at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow.

Ahead of kick-off, let’s take a closer look at why this Vatreni (The Blazers) team are deserving of lifting the coveted Russia 2018 trophy and writing their names in the history books of Croatia forever.

1. A miraculous collective and maximum motivation
Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic has done something incredible. The atmosphere in the team has never been better, something the players have repeatedly said.

They have felt like a real family during this World Cup, having been together for 50 days. The players look like they would die for each other on the pitch in the effort they put in. Despite playing in three consecutive extra time matches, they have shown that their desire to win as a collective is very high.

2. Mental strength and character
Denmark, Russia and England — those were three come-from-behind wins for Vatreni, with two of them coming from winning in penalty shootouts. The Croatian comeback kings dominated those games from a mental and physical perspective.

Captain Luka Modric repeatedly said: “We have shown our character.” Croatia’s strength of personality will serve them well in the final against France. Every World Cup winning team throughout history has had to have a great amount of character.

3. Experience equals self-confidence
Modric is the leader of this great Vatreni generation. Besides the Real Madrid talisman, there are other stars in Dalic’s squad, including players from Barcelona, Inter Milan, Juventus and Liverpool like Ivan Rakitic, Mario Mandzukic, Ivan Perisic, Mateo Kovacic and Dejan Lovren. With an average age of 27 years and ten months, Croatia have a lot of experience and self-confidence as well, because almost everyone has their place in their clubs’ first XI. They are all well aware of their capabilities.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/07/13/three-reasons-why-croatia-deserves-to-win-the-final/

DUBLIN, June 15, 2018 – The 2018 Rugby Africa Gold Cup, which doubles as a Rugby World Cup 2019 qualification tournament, begins on Saturday as the top six teams in Africa, aside from South Africa, battle it out for a place at the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan.

The Rugby Africa Gold Cup will be played in a round-robin format across seven match days between 16 June and 18 August 2018. It features Africa’s top six nations that have not already qualified for the Rugby World Cup 2019 with Namibia the highest ranked team at 24 in the current World Rugby rankings, followed by Kenya (28), Uganda (37), Morocco (38), Tunisia (42), and Zimbabwe (44).

The competition will get under way on 16 June as Zimbabwe host Morocco at Harare Sports Club, while Namibia face Uganda at Hage Geingob Stadium in Windhoek. The tournament will reach its exciting conclusion when the final round of matches is played on 18 August.

The winner of the competition will qualify for Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan as Africa 1, joining reigning champions New Zealand, South Africa, Italy and the repechage winner in Pool B. The Rugby Africa Gold Cup runner-up will go straight to the four-team repechage tournament in November 2018.

The winners will also be the first recipients of the newly created perpetual trophy, which was unveiled at the AIPS congress in Brussels in May and is designed to embody rugby’s values of Integrity, Respect, Solidarity, Passion and Discipline.

World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont said: “We are looking forward to witnessing a very high quality and extremely competitive 2018 Rugby Africa Gold Cup as the six nations involved compete for the right to qualify for what is shaping up to be a fantastic Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan.

“There has never been a more exciting time for rugby in Africa with ten African nations currently placed in the top-50 of the world rankings and more women and men, girls and boys, playing the sport than ever before. The players are inspirational role models for the next generations of young Africans who are discovering the sport and I wish the best of luck to all the competing teams.”

Rugby is the fastest growing sport in Africa and has seen record participation growth and fan engagement over the last five years. Since 2002 the number of African nations playing rugby has risen from six to 38, reflecting the excellent development work that has been undertaken across the region and the appetite for a sport that continues to reach, engage and inspire young people.

As part of the global Get Into Rugby development programme, 401,017 participants, supported by 4,400 coaches, were introduced to rugby across Africa in 2017, up five per cent on 2016, as the sport continues to go from strength to strength.

Pleasingly, 45 per cent of all Get Into Rugby participants in the Rugby Africa region were female and the southern and eastern regions of the continent, in particular, experienced massive growth among pre-teenage girls and boys with Kenya and South Africa among the top 10 nations globally.

Read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/06/15/rugby-africa-gold-cup-kicks-off-african-rugby-world-cup-qualification/

by Chibuogwu Nnadiegbulam, AIPS Young Reporter, Nigeria
MOSCOW, June 15, 2018 – About three weeks ago, it looked as though Egypt’s chance of a good outing at the FIFA World Cup 2018 hung in the balance. Their star player, Mohamed Salah, was in tears following a shoulder ligament injury he sustained during Liverpool’s Champions League final defeat by Real Madrid on 26 May. His World Cup hopes dangled before his eyes. But the Egyptian Football Association kept the faith and that seems to be paying off.

Hope for Salah – According to the coach of the side, Hector Cuper, Salah, whose 26th birthday is today, has recovered “very, very quickly” and is fit to play the Pharaohs’ opening match against two-time world champions Uruguay this afternoon.

He said: “I can almost assure you 100% he will play, save unforeseen circumstances at the very last minute. He could become the top goalscorer here and one of the greatest players.

“We’re trying to make him feel confident. The doctors are giving him the option to play or not, but I know Salah very well and I’m sure he’s not afraid, he’s not fearful.”

It has been largely perceived that Egypt will find it easier navigating their way out of the group stage than any other African nation in Russia but a date with Uruguay seems like a difficult place to start.

Since Hector Cuper took charge of the team in March 2015, they have gone on to finish second at the Africa Cup of Nations in 2017 before qualifying for the World Cup after a 28-year-absence. Salah, who netted a remarkable 71 per cent of the Pharaohs’ goals in Russia 2018 qualifying, was named CAF Player of the Year in January.

Difficult group – However the results of the warm-up matches they played are anything but encouraging; three losses and two draws. They are known for their defensive solidity with the centre back pairing of West Bromwich Albion’s Ali Gabr and Ahmed Hegazi at the heart of it, but can they curtail a Luis Suarez and Edison Cavani attack?

“I think Egypt are in a difficult group and the arrangement of our matches in Group A is not comfortable at all,” Ahmed El Nefily, an Egyptian journalist with beIN Sports told AIPS.

He added: “Egypt will start against Uruguay one of the best teams in South America and we will face two of the best strikers in the world, Cavani and Suarez. And that as the first test for Egypt will be very difficult.

El Nefily also explained that their second game against Russia will be as difficult as the first because the hosts, having beaten Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the opening match of the tournament, will be looking to seal a place in the next round before their final group game against the dreaded Uruguay.

“But if Egypt collect one point from Uruguay they may be in a good position to qualify for second round,” he said.

Historical moment – El Nefily described the moment of their 2018 World Cup qualification as a historical one. He remembered being in the stadium as a young boy when they qualified for the 1990 edition. But he was a little bit sad that “the strongest team in Africa that claimed three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations titles didn’t get the chance to go to the World Cup.”

He continued: “They were the best team in Egyptian football history and I think if they had the chance to go to the World Cup, maybe in 2010, they could have reached the quarter-finals or more.”

Age is just a number – It will definitely be an upset if Egypt go on to beat Uruguay today but that moment when their Goalkeeper and captain Essam El Hadary becomes the oldest player in World Cup history (45 years and 151 days) cannot be missed.

El Hadary who says “age is just a number” will break the record set in 2014 by 43-year-old Colombian Faryd Mondragon.

In his article on The Players’ Tribune, El Hadary asked his good friend Gianluigi Buffon why he retired so early.

“I know you have won the World Cup and all that… But you still miss the Champions League, right? Well, look at yourself — you’re still young!

“Or look at it this way: If you are feeling too old for this game, how do you think I feel?

“I’m only joking, of course. But I’m also kind of serious. Because when I imagine what my career would have looked like if had I retired at your age, well, I shiver at the thought. You see, almost from the moment I could walk, I have been chasing a dream — to play in the World Cup with Egypt. For a long time it looked like it wouldn’t happen.

“But this year, we’ll be going. And I’ll be our goalkeeper. At the age of 45.”

Read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/06/15/russia-2018-can-egypt-shock-uruguay-on-mo-salahs-birthday/

NYON, February 26, 2018 – Record prize money for UEFA EURO 2020 and record grants for the development of the game in Europe were announced at the 42nd UEFA Ordinary Congress today in Bratislava, Slovakia, as UEFA’s 55 member associations were informed of the decisions taken by the UEFA Executive Committee on the eve of the congress.

The HatTrick V solidarity and development programme has been earmarked to receive €775m in its next four-year cycle, from 2020-2024. This represents an increase of almost 30% from the €600m available for HatTrick IV (2016-2020). Each association will therefore be able to receive up to €14.1m over four years. The programme has supported UEFA member associations in implementing education and development programmes, as well as financing football infrastructure – helping to build pitches, stadiums, training centres and headquarter offices. Since its creation in 2004, HatTrick has invested €1.8bn in European football.

A substantial increase in the amount distributed to the teams participating in the final tournament of UEFA EURO 2020 was also approved by the UEFA Executive Committee. The 24 national teams will share a total of €371m compared to the €301m distributed at UEFA EURO 2016 in France.

Details of distribution are as follows:

· All 24 teams will receive a participating fee of €9.25m.

· During the group phase there are also performance bonuses of €1.5m for a win and €750,000 for a draw.

· Once UEFA EURO 2020 enters its knockout phase, there are no more performance bonuses. Instead, the teams participating in the round of 16 will receive €2m, the eight quarter-finalists will receive an additional payment of €3.25m. The financial reward for reaching the semi-finals is an extra payment of €5m.

· Regarding the final at Wembley in London, the 2020 European champions will receive €10m while there will be a reward of €7m for the runners-up.

· This means that, if the champions have also won all three of their group matches, the total prize money they earn will amount to €34m, compared to a maximum of €27m in 2016.

In other events occurring at the 42nd UEFA Ordinary Congress, Juan Luis Larrea Sarobe (Spain) was elected to the UEFA Executive Committee for a one-year term, whereas Sándor Csányi (Hungary) was elected FIFA vice-president for a one-year term, both being elected by acclamation. Following the election of Sándor Csányi, the UEFA Executive Committee decided to appoint Fernando Gomes to replace him as a member of the FIFA Council until the 2019 UEFA Congress.

Lars-Christer Olsson was ratified as the representative of the European Professional Football Leagues on the UEFA Executive Committee for a term lasting until the 2021 UEFA electoral Congress.

The application for membership of the Jersey Football Association was rejected by the UEFA Congress.

Finally, the UEFA Congress approved the 2016/17 Report of the UEFA President and the Executive Committee; the 2016/17 report of the UEFA Administration; the 2016/17 financial statements and the 2018/19 budget; as well as several amendments to the UEFA Statutes.

The next meeting of the UEFA Executive Committee will take place on 24 May 2018 in Kyiv, whereas the next UEFA Congress will take place in Rome on 7 February 2019.

Read more : http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/27/uefa-announces-record-prize-money-for-euro-2020/

ABIDJAN, February 26, 2018 – Ghana were crowned champions of the maiden 2018 WAFU Women’s Cup after the Black Queens earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory against host nation Ivory Coast.

Janet Egyir’s goal in the first half ensured the Black Queens got a sweet revenge for a 1-0 defeat in their opening match of the competition against the hosts.

Beyond the bragging rights, it is also a historic feat for Ghana coach Mercy Tagoe who is acting as the interim coach of the Black Queens after Mas-ud Didi Dramani resigned last month.

Tagoe, a former player, becomes the first female coach to win a trophy with the Black Queens. She will be hoping for the big one – that is the Africa Cup of Nations which gets underway in Ghana in November.



How they qualified

The two sides reached the final in a contrasting manner, but they have both showed quality in tactics and pattern of play. The Ivorians beat Ghana 1-0, Niger 6-0, and drew 1-1 with Burkina Faso, before defeating Mali 2-0 in the semi-finals.



The Queens, on the other hand, recovered from their initial slip to secure two emphatic wins against Niger and Burkina Faso before that significant 5-4 win on penalties against Nigeria after 1-1 in regulation time.



Honours

The Ghanaians dominated the individual honours as well. Skipper Portia Boakye, who took the armband in Elizabeth Addo’s absence, finished as top scorer with four goals and three assists.

Grand final hero Jane Egyir picked up the player of the tournament while Ivory Coast’s custodian was named best keeper.



Golden Boot: Portia Boakye

Golden Ball: Jane Egyir

Golden Glove: Cynthia Djohore

Read more : http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/27/ghana-win-maiden-wafu-womens-cup-in-ivory-coast/

The Nigeria Football Federation has unfolded its programme for its inaugural awards night which will hold on Monday at the Grand Ballroom of the Eko Hotels & Suites.

According to a press release by its media department, the Monday programme which is geared towards recognition of achievements will open with cocktails at 6pm while live telecast of the proceedings will begin at 7pm.

The event is supported by partners Aiteo and the Lagos State Government as hosts.

It is the first time that the nation’s football –governing body is organizing awards ceremony to reward and inspire the major actors and actresses in the Nigerian football space.

Gongs will be presented to winners in Player of the Year (men), Player of the Year (women), Coach of the Year (men), Coach of the Year (women), Young Player of the Year (men), Young Player of the Year (women), Team of the Season, Fair Play Award, Goal of the Season, Fans of the Season, NFF Development Award and Platinum Award categories.

There will be special recognition of a ‘Legends Eleven,’ a squad of outstanding former Nigeria international players.

The Awards ceremony will also be attended by a large selection of Nigeria football legends, including former captains Christian Chukwu, Olusegun Odegbami, Daniel Amokachi, Mutiu Adepoju, Uche Okechukwu, Garba Lawal, Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha, Nwankwo Kanu and Joseph Yobo.

The NFF senior vice president, Seyi Akinwunmi, who is also Chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Awards, told thenff.com on Thursday that voting was ongoing by selected voters across the country, after nominations were compiled for the various award categories by a screening committee.

“I can tell you that all arrangements have been tidied up and we are looking forward to a truly big day. The NFF decided it was the right time to launch a project to recognize and reward excellence in Nigerian Football.

“Fortunately, we found a worthy partner in the Government of Lagos State and also our major partner, Aiteo,” he stated, declaring that the NFF Awards will be an annual event.

The FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, due to open the FIFA Executive Football Summit in the same facility less than 24 hours later, is expected to grace the ceremony alongside CAF President Ahmad, FIFA Secretary General Fatma Samoura, the CAF top hierarchy and presidents of about 20 member associations of FIFA.

Top officials of the Lagos State Government, Members of the NFF Executive Committee and Management, Members of NFF Congress, officials of the Lagos State FA, NFF partners and sponsors, former NFF Presidents, former NFF General Secretaries, Chairmen of NPFL clubs and members of the diplomatic corps are also expected.

read more : http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/16/lagos-set-for-nffs-first-ever-awards-night/

By Chibuogwu Nnadiegbulam

PYEONGCHANG, February 9, 2018 – Global media attention and nationwide stardom. It’s been a rollercoaster ride and rightly so, all in acknowledgement of the historic feat of four Nigerian women who broke away from the norm and took the world by storm by leading their country to its first-ever Winter Olympics.

Today could have been just another day at the office – probably one that would have involved just another business trip – for Simidele Adeagbo who works as a brand manager at Nike Inc., in Johannesburg, South Africa. However, that one-time regular girl – you probably never knew – has flipped the script and is in PyeongChang, South Korea as the first Nigerian, African and Black female Skeleton athlete to qualify for the Winter Olympics.

The 36-year-old got featured in Nike’s short film, Forever First, where she said: “Being first [it] doesn’t always last. But being the first to go where they said you shouldn’t; the first to do what they didn’t expect; the first to charge a new course – that lasts forever.”

In 2008, Adeagbo who was a triple jumper with the USA, missed out on the Summer Olympics by eight inches. It was her last try on sand and she moved on with her life afterwards.

Ten years later, she is leaving an indelible mark on ice and snow.

“Ultimately, for me, this is about breaking barriers in winter sports. It’s about making history and leaving a legacy. It’s about moving sport forward.

“That’s so much bigger than just me being an Olympian,” the four-time NCAA All American and triple jump record holder for the University of Kentucky said on her official website.

Adeagbo’s story to stardom can not be complete without the mention of Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere and Akuoma Omeoga – the three women that make up Africa’s first-ever bobsled team at a Winter Olympics.

Adeagbo was inspired after she read about the history-making bobsledders and the rest, they say, is history.

These pioneers, Adigun, Onwumere and Omeoga, have traversed the length and breadth of various media platforms home and abroad since breaking new grounds as far as sports in Nigeria (and Africa) is concerned – from the world renowned ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ to ‘CNN African voices’.

They were also tapped by Beats by Dre for its global “Above the Noise” campaign. A video which gave Tennis great Serena Williams chills and led her to tweet thus: “…I am so excited to watch Nigeria compete in the winter Olympics bobsledding race the first time an African country has ever competed in bobsledding!”

The National Olympic Committee and the Bobsled and Skeleton Federation of Nigeria treated the quartet to a heroes’ welcome when they arrived in the country last Thursday.

Having already attracted sponsorship from Visa, Under Armour and TravelStart – which has KLM Nigeria as partners, Nigerian Breweries Plc also announced their support for the team.

“We assure you that we have not come this far to give up but to make history. We want to make something special in Korea,” said Seun Adigun, the driver of Nigeria’s Women’s bobsled team, at a press conference held in Nigeria before their departure to South Korea.

She added: “The fact that we are pioneers in the sport in Nigeria makes it more delightful and the fact that we are already having a positive impact in the world is something that will spur us not only to participate at the games but also to compete for medals.”

Ngozi Onwumere, one of the breakwomen in the team, echoed Adigun’s optimism when she stated: “To be the first to do anything is, I think, it’s just something that you can’t really explain.

“We don’t just want the dream to stop by qualifying for the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang but making history by winning.”

Meanwhile Akuoma Omeoga, the other breakwoman in the team added: “I’m just taking things one day at a time: Don’t get too ahead of yourself, don’t get too behind yourself, and don’t sell yourself short on anything.”

In truth, it would not matter much how they perform at PyeongChang 2018. They have blazed a trail and hopefully there will be others to follow in their footsteps. Last December the Bobsled & Skeleton Federation of Nigeria and Temple Management Company (TMC) released an all-star theme song titled ‘The Ice blazers’ to cheer the team on in their remarkable journey.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/09/pyeongchang-2018-life-changing-games-for-nigerias-trailblazing-contingent/

By Chibuogwu Nnadiegbulam

PYEONGCHANG, February 9, 2018 – Global media attention and nationwide stardom. It’s been a rollercoaster ride and rightly so, all in acknowledgement of the historic feat of four Nigerian women who broke away from the norm and took the world by storm by leading their country to its first-ever Winter Olympics.

Today could have been just another day at the office – probably one that would have involved just another business trip – for Simidele Adeagbo who works as a brand manager at Nike Inc., in Johannesburg, South Africa. However, that one-time regular girl – you probably never knew – has flipped the script and is in PyeongChang, South Korea as the first Nigerian, African and Black female Skeleton athlete to qualify for the Winter Olympics.

The 36-year-old got featured in Nike’s short film, Forever First, where she said: “Being first [it] doesn’t always last. But being the first to go where they said you shouldn’t; the first to do what they didn’t expect; the first to charge a new course – that lasts forever.”

In 2008, Adeagbo who was a triple jumper with the USA, missed out on the Summer Olympics by eight inches. It was her last try on sand and she moved on with her life afterwards.

Ten years later, she is leaving an indelible mark on ice and snow.

“Ultimately, for me, this is about breaking barriers in winter sports. It’s about making history and leaving a legacy. It’s about moving sport forward.

“That’s so much bigger than just me being an Olympian,” the four-time NCAA All American and triple jump record holder for the University of Kentucky said on her official website.

Adeagbo’s story to stardom can not be complete without the mention of Seun Adigun, Ngozi Onwumere and Akuoma Omeoga – the three women that make up Africa’s first-ever bobsled team at a Winter Olympics.

Adeagbo was inspired after she read about the history-making bobsledders and the rest, they say, is history.

These pioneers, Adigun, Onwumere and Omeoga, have traversed the length and breadth of various media platforms home and abroad since breaking new grounds as far as sports in Nigeria (and Africa) is concerned – from the world renowned ‘The Ellen DeGeneres Show’ to ‘CNN African voices’.

They were also tapped by Beats by Dre for its global “Above the Noise” campaign. A video which gave Tennis great Serena Williams chills and led her to tweet thus: “…I am so excited to watch Nigeria compete in the winter Olympics bobsledding race the first time an African country has ever competed in bobsledding!”

The National Olympic Committee and the Bobsled and Skeleton Federation of Nigeria treated the quartet to a heroes’ welcome when they arrived in the country last Thursday.

Having already attracted sponsorship from Visa, Under Armour and TravelStart – which has KLM Nigeria as partners, Nigerian Breweries Plc also announced their support for the team.

“We assure you that we have not come this far to give up but to make history. We want to make something special in Korea,” said Seun Adigun, the driver of Nigeria’s Women’s bobsled team, at a press conference held in Nigeria before their departure to South Korea.

She added: “The fact that we are pioneers in the sport in Nigeria makes it more delightful and the fact that we are already having a positive impact in the world is something that will spur us not only to participate at the games but also to compete for medals.”

Ngozi Onwumere, one of the breakwomen in the team, echoed Adigun’s optimism when she stated: “To be the first to do anything is, I think, it’s just something that you can’t really explain.

“We don’t just want the dream to stop by qualifying for the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang but making history by winning.”

Meanwhile Akuoma Omeoga, the other breakwoman in the team added: “I’m just taking things one day at a time: Don’t get too ahead of yourself, don’t get too behind yourself, and don’t sell yourself short on anything.”

In truth, it would not matter much how they perform at PyeongChang 2018. They have blazed a trail and hopefully there will be others to follow in their footsteps. Last December the Bobsled & Skeleton Federation of Nigeria and Temple Management Company (TMC) released an all-star theme song titled ‘The Ice blazers’ to cheer the team on in their remarkable journey.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/09/pyeongchang-2018-life-changing-games-for-nigerias-trailblazing-contingent/

By Kodjo

Alessia Afi Dipol, one of the togolese atlete registered for the korean Winter games,has beeb withdrawn from the atletes’ list this day. According to peplelou news, the organizing committee, along with IOC, décided to cancel Alessia Afi Dipol on the list because of problems linked to her passport.

Alessia Afi Dipol had registered to compete in the Alpin Super G and Alpin Slalom. The decision came out after a 3 hours’ meeting in Pyeongchang. Delegates of local organizing committee, IOC and togolese representatives discussed the matter without a settlement at the end.

Nevertheless, the registration of Mathilde Amivi Petitjean, another togolese atlete to the winter games has been confirmed. ” A copy of her togolese passport has been received this day at the local organizing committee bureau” wrote peplelou news.

There is no chance of medals for Togo in the coming winter games.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/08/winter-games-2018-a-togolese-atlete-out-of-games/

A battling performance by the Super Eagles was not enough as hosts Morocco fired from all cylinders to hit Nigeria 4-0 and win the African Nations Championship title in Casablanca on Sunday.

In the event, Morocco became the first nation to win both senior men’s titles in the African continent, following from their triumph in the AFCON in Ethiopia 42 years ago.

A heavy rain driven by strong winds was a feature of the match throughout, with the Eagles struggling to cope with a very wet turf at the Stade Mohamed V. Yet, they put up a creditable first 45 minutes, holding the Atlas Lions well and creating chances of their own, with only Zakaria Hadraf’s 45th minute goal separating both teams at the time Senegalese referee Papa Gassama brought the ? d Peter Eneji instead of Anthony Okpotu, with the strategy of two wingers who could also do damage at the fore. But Eneji, playing his first match of the tournament, bagged his second yellow card only three minutes into the second half, leaving the Eagles disadvantaged under pouring rain and at the mercy of an Atlas Lions’ attack that had netted 12 goals in their previous five matches in the competition.

A goal down and a man less, and a wet turf to deal with, the Eagles truly struggled. Despite the good spirit of Gabriel Okechukwu and Emeka Ogbuh, and energetic play of Rabiu Ali, Dayo Ojo and Emeka Atuloma, the Eagles’ rearguard was overwhelmed time and again and the second goal came as El Karti reacted quickest when goalkeeper Oladele Ajiboye punched the ball in the 62ndminute.

Two minutes later, the Lions broke again on the counter as Nigeria lost the ball on an onslaught. Poor communication between Ajiboye and defender Stephen Eze saw the ball roll into the path of an umarked Hadraf, who easily got his brace.

El Kaabi, who had rocked Ajiboye’s crossbar and upright with acrobatic cycle kicks in the 15th and 62nd minute, scored his ninth goal of the tournament as the Eagles’ defence crumbled again in the 73rd minute. He was named Player of the Tournament and also became the championship’s record scorer.

At the end, Nigeria celebrated a best –ever performance at the African Nations Championship, picking up the silver medals and the runners –up prize money of $750,000 – better than the bronze medal outing in South Africa four years ago.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/05/eagles-pick-silver-celebrate-best-ever-chan-outing/

A battling performance by the Super Eagles was not enough as hosts Morocco fired from all cylinders to hit Nigeria 4-0 and win the African Nations Championship title in Casablanca on Sunday.

In the event, Morocco became the first nation to win both senior men’s titles in the African continent, following from their triumph in the AFCON in Ethiopia 42 years ago.

A heavy rain driven by strong winds was a feature of the match throughout, with the Eagles struggling to cope with a very wet turf at the Stade Mohamed V. Yet, they put up a creditable first 45 minutes, holding the Atlas Lions well and creating chances of their own, with only Zakaria Hadraf’s 45th minute goal separating both teams at the time Senegalese referee Papa Gassama brought the ? d Peter Eneji instead of Anthony Okpotu, with the strategy of two wingers who could also do damage at the fore. But Eneji, playing his first match of the tournament, bagged his second yellow card only three minutes into the second half, leaving the Eagles disadvantaged under pouring rain and at the mercy of an Atlas Lions’ attack that had netted 12 goals in their previous five matches in the competition.

A goal down and a man less, and a wet turf to deal with, the Eagles truly struggled. Despite the good spirit of Gabriel Okechukwu and Emeka Ogbuh, and energetic play of Rabiu Ali, Dayo Ojo and Emeka Atuloma, the Eagles’ rearguard was overwhelmed time and again and the second goal came as El Karti reacted quickest when goalkeeper Oladele Ajiboye punched the ball in the 62ndminute.

Two minutes later, the Lions broke again on the counter as Nigeria lost the ball on an onslaught. Poor communication between Ajiboye and defender Stephen Eze saw the ball roll into the path of an umarked Hadraf, who easily got his brace.

El Kaabi, who had rocked Ajiboye’s crossbar and upright with acrobatic cycle kicks in the 15th and 62nd minute, scored his ninth goal of the tournament as the Eagles’ defence crumbled again in the 73rd minute. He was named Player of the Tournament and also became the championship’s record scorer.

At the end, Nigeria celebrated a best –ever performance at the African Nations Championship, picking up the silver medals and the runners –up prize money of $750,000 – better than the bronze medal outing in South Africa four years ago.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/05/eagles-pick-silver-celebrate-best-ever-chan-outing/

The President, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Mr Honour Sirawoo has harped on professionalism and unity among sports journalists as the Association marks its 54th anniversary. SWAN came into being on February 1, 1964 and is charged with coordinating the activities of the Nigerian media in the promotion of sports and their socio-cultural values, as well as defend and uphold the moral and professional rights of members, contribute through advice, suggestions, criticisms or other means to the development and growth of sports in Nigeria.

Speaking in line with this year’s theme, “Uniting To Restore Our Dignity,” Sirawoo went down the memory lane and praised the founding fathers of SWAN for their foresight and unity of purpose in birthing the Association. According to him, “kudos to our founding fathers for their vision and sense of mission in creating the Association to bring together sports journalists.

The Association has over the years grown from strength to strength, providing the platform to engage stakeholders and contributing to the development of sports in Nigeria.” He stressed on the need for members to act within the tenets of responsible journalism and have the common purpose of taking the Association to a new level that would earn the respect of government, administrators and operators.

The SWAN President commended the National Executive Council (NEC), states’ executives and members of the association for their cooperation since he assumed office in 2016, adding that though some successes have been achieved, there were still a lot more to be done. The nation’s number one sports journalist disclosed that more innovations to make the body respond to emerging challenges would soon be unfolded, pointing out that he was open to suggestions to make the Association better.

He reiterated the Association’s readiness to work with other stakeholders to ensure that sports is taken to the next level and the country attains her deserved place in Africa and the world.

Olalekan Ige

Special Adviser to the President on Media

Read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/01/sirawoo-harps-on-professionalism-unity-on-swans-anniversary/

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,

This is to respectfully call on the nation’s and Africa’s vibrant press to send in requests for media accreditation for the 2018 African Wrestling Championships holding in Port Harcourt from 7th to 11th February, 2018.

No fewer than 25 African countries will be in Port Harcourt for the Championships which Nigeria is hosting for the first time.

Interested Journalists are expected to apply via the link below:
http://athena.unitedworldwrestling.org/press

The accreditation is issued by the United World Wrestling.

Entry closes by midnight (WAT) on Wednesday, 31st January, 2018.

Please note that for completing the application, a photo (headshot), copy of passport (or an identification card), a valid press card and an email are necessary. If someone is not holding a press card please upload an official letter from your institution.

Please, accept my profound apologies for the late notification. It was due to some unforeseen circumstances.

Emeka Dennar

Media Officer

Nigeria Wrestling Federation

08035031357
@EmekaDennar @wrestlingngr

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/01/media-accreditation-for-2018-african-wrestling-championships/

Dear Esteemed Colleagues,

This is to respectfully call on the nation’s and Africa’s vibrant press to send in requests for media accreditation for the 2018 African Wrestling Championships holding in Port Harcourt from 7th to 11th February, 2018.

No fewer than 25 African countries will be in Port Harcourt for the Championships which Nigeria is hosting for the first time.

Interested Journalists are expected to apply via the link below:
http://athena.unitedworldwrestling.org/press

The accreditation is issued by the United World Wrestling.

Entry closes by midnight (WAT) on Wednesday, 31st January, 2018.

Please note that for completing the application, a photo (headshot), copy of passport (or an identification card), a valid press card and an email are necessary. If someone is not holding a press card please upload an official letter from your institution.

Please, accept my profound apologies for the late notification. It was due to some unforeseen circumstances.

Emeka Dennar

Media Officer

Nigeria Wrestling Federation

08035031357
@EmekaDennar @wrestlingngr

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/01/media-accreditation-for-2018-african-wrestling-championships/

AIPS AFRICA In Collaboration with Radio Mars, a celebrated sports radio network in Morocco and other parts of the continent along with MDJS would be hosting all sports journalists covering the CHAN .the Africa Nations Championship to a lunch date on Saturday at the Sofitel in Casablanca.

It will be a fitting opening for sports journalists covering the Nations Championship to share and rub minds on their coverage experiences and to meet first hand with AIPS AFRICA executives on ground as part of the fresh drive to enhance cooperation levels amongst colleagues and to forge a strong link with top sports federations in the continent.

AIPS President Gianni Merlo is expected to be part of the lunch along with some distinguished sports personalities including the CAF president Ahmad who has been invited, President’s of football federations as well as a good partner of AIPS AFRICA Christian Lagnide who is the President of LC2 and AFNEX as well as the Africa Football Foundation. AIPS AFRICA will have the opportunity to expand on the mission of its four year Strategic Plan which was launched late last year in Nairobi at the election congress.

Read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/01/aips-africa-mdjs-in-collaboration-with-radio-mars-hosts-chan-journalist/

AIPS AFRICA In Collaboration with Radio Mars, a celebrated sports radio network in Morocco and other parts of the continent along with MDJS would be hosting all sports journalists covering the CHAN .the Africa Nations Championship to a lunch date on Saturday at the Sofitel in Casablanca.

It will be a fitting opening for sports journalists covering the Nations Championship to share and rub minds on their coverage experiences and to meet first hand with AIPS AFRICA executives on ground as part of the fresh drive to enhance cooperation levels amongst colleagues and to forge a strong link with top sports federations in the continent.

AIPS President Gianni Merlo is expected to be part of the lunch along with some distinguished sports personalities including the CAF president Ahmad who has been invited, President’s of football federations as well as a good partner of AIPS AFRICA Christian Lagnide who is the President of LC2 and AFNEX as well as the Africa Football Foundation. AIPS AFRICA will have the opportunity to expand on the mission of its four year Strategic Plan which was launched late last year in Nairobi at the election congress.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/02/01/aips-africa-mdjs-in-collaboration-with-radio-mars-hosts-chan-journalist/

Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr said goalkeeper, Ikechukwu Ezenwa may have cemented his place in the squad to the Russia 2018 World Cup with his spectacular performance in the CAF Africa Nations Championship quarter-final match against Angola.

Ezenwa, made several saves that kept Nigeria in the game the Super Eagles were on the verge of losing after going down 1-0 to the Angolans.“Ezenwa has demonstrated that he deserves a place in the World Cup. His excellent saves kept the team in the game. “The Eagles had to chase the game and they did well scoring and winning the match.

The team spirit is just like that of the Super Eagles A team,” Rohr said after the game in Tangier. Ezenwa, who is captaining the home-based Super Eagles at the tournament, walked away with the Total Man of the Match accolade at the end of the game. “I’m happy with my performance and having Gernot Rohr here watching, I believe that will help me with the senior national team,” Ezenwa said.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/01/30/rohr-ezenwa-sure-bet-for-world-cup-squad/

Sports minister Solomon Dalung has praised the Super Eagles for qualifying for the semifinals of the 2018 CHAN in Morocco.

Nigeria came from behind to defeat Angola 2-1 in Tangiers on Sunday.

Dalung said, “Congratulations on your successful outing so far in the African Nations Championship. You still have two more hurdles to bring the trophy to Nigeria. I urged you to maintain your commitment, hard work and discipline which brought this emphatic win and go all the way to win the trophy.”

The minister, who is in New York for the 7th Economic and Social Council Youth Forum at the United Nations headquarters on Tuesday, also commended the team for their unity of purpose.

He added, “I urge you to continue in like manner and approach your subsequent games with the same commitment and dedication until victory is achieved.”

Also, the Nigeria Football Federation commended the Eagles for their performance in Morocco.

Chairman of the NFF Technical and Development Committee Yusuf Ahmed said, “The boys have really and truly done Nigeria proud. There are still battles to conquer but we must commend them for overcoming strong opposition right from the group stage to make it to the last four.

“Of course it is one match at a time. But I am happy that we have a team that have been showing excellent spirit and resilience, and I see them going all the way.”

Nigeria have been in the CHAN’s last four only once before – when the squad coached by the late Stephen Keshi eventually took the bronze at the 2014 finals in South Africa.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/01/30/minister-nff-praise-super-eagles/

LAUSANNE, January 29, 2018 – Written press journalists and photographers wishing to cover the IAAF/Trinidad Alfonso World Half Marathon Championships Valencia 2018, to be held on 24 March, can now register online for accreditation.

In order to access the online IAAF registration system, journalists will need a specific access code. If you wish to attend and still do not have an access code, please contact your national athletics federation.

The IAAF registration system can be reached from the following link on the local organising committee’s website: https://www.iaafvalencia2018.com/media/accreditations/

Press accreditation and accommodation deadline: 5 March 2018

For more information, please contact Anna Legnani on +33 607 93 62 83 or by email: anna@iaaf.org or Lavinia Maffia on +33 607 93 99 24 or by e-mail: lavinia@iaaf.org

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/01/29/press-accreditation-opens-for-iaaf-world-half-marathon-championships-valencia-2018/

ZURICH, Janauray 24, 2018 – FIFA and the Local Organising Committee are pleased to announce that the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Team Workshop will take place in Sochi on 27-28 February.

The 32 participating teams of the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ are invited to attend the workshop, which will cover various aspects of the competition in a range of informative sessions.

The member associations are requested to participate in the workshop with representatives in the areas of football/technical matters (team coaches), medical (team doctors), media, accommodation, security, logistics, transportation and marketing. The workshop sessions will not be open to the media but opportunities to film or photograph the event will be organised.

Provisional media programme (a full media programme will follow in due course)

Monday, 26 February

09:00-20:00 Accreditation centre opening hours

12:00-21:00 Media centre opening hours

Tuesday, 27 February

09:00-20:00 Accreditation centre opening hours

09:00-21:00 Media centre opening hours

13:45 Group picture of coaches followed by filming and photo opportunity at the start of the workshop’s plenary session

Wednesday, 28 February

09:00-21:00 Media centre and accreditation centre opening hours

11:00-12:00 Mixed zone with coaches and other team delegates

Media accreditation required

The media accreditation process for the Team Workshop is now open via the FIFA Media Channel.

Media representatives interested in covering the two-day workshop must complete the media accreditation form available on the FIFA Media Channel. Please note that the accreditation form is only valid for the Team Workshop in Sochi. The deadline for accreditation applications is 26 January.

Information on visas and media hotels will be provided in due course on the FIFA Media Channel.

The workshop will take place at the Radisson Blu Resort & Congress Centre, 1a Golubaya Street, Adler, District Imeretinskaya Lowland, Sochi.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/01/29/media-accreditation-for-the-2018-fifa-world-cup-russia-team-workshop-on-27-28-february/

Welcome to Aips Africa LIVE COVERAGE of the 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN) quarterfinal clash between Nigeria and Angola from the Stade Ibn Batouta in Tangier, Morocco on Sunday, 28 January 2017.

AS IT HAPPENED COMMENTARY:

120′ – Full-Time: Nigeria 2-1 Angola – The Super Eagles will take on Sudan for a place in the final!

109′ – GOAL! Okechukwu Gabriel makes amends as he fires a left-footed shot into the back of the net from the edge of the area.

108′ – CHANCE! Rabiu Ali fires over the crossbar following a quick break from the Super Eagles. Decision making has been poor from both teams throughout.

105′ – Half-Time in Extra-Time: Nigeria 1-1 Angola

100′ – No clear cut chances to write home about just yet, with both teams reluctant to throw bodies forward in attack.

90′ –Extra-Time is underway in Tangier.

Full-Time: Nigeria 1-1 Angola, Extra-Time to follow!

90+1′ – GOAL! Anthony Okpotu levels matters in stoppage time! Finally for the forward who missed a catalogue of chances throughout.

90′ – Three minutes of added time.

84′ – MISS! Okechukwu Gabriel hits his attempt over the crossbar with only the goalkeeper to beat! What a miss!

77′ – CHANCE! POST! Okechukwu Gabriel watches on in agony as his attempt canon’s off the woodwork, onto the Angolan goalkeeper’s head and away from danger! Unbelievable.

71′ – Ikechukwu Ezenwa comes to Nigeria’s rescue once more! This time to deny Vladimir Vá his second from point-blank range.

67′ – Emeka Atuloma tries his luck from range, but the ball was always rising in this wind. Super Eagles need to dig deep if they are to turn this around.

65′ – Yellow card, Augusto Tó next to go into the referee’s book as Nigeria continue their search for the equalizer.

55′ – GOAL! Angola open the scoring in rather fortunate circumstances as Timothy Timothy’s attempted clearance canon’s of Vladimir Vá and into the back of the net.

50′ – CHANCE! Early opportunity wasted by Anthony Okpotu who fails to hit the target with the Angolan shot-stopper stranded.

46′ – Second half is underway in Tangier.

Half-Time: Nigeria 0-0 Angola

45′ – CHANCE! Braulio Nary clears off the line to deny Anthony Okpotu after the goalkeeper fails to gather a cross with the wind causing all sorts of havoc.

42′ – Sunday Faleye makes his way back onto the pitch to the relief of Salisu Yusuf. The forward went down hard on his right arm, but he’s going to soldier on.

35′ – CHANCE! Another chance for Calesso Manu, but Ikechukwu Ezenwa comes up trumps not once, but twice to deny the attacker!

29′ – SAVE! Great stop from Ikechukwu Ezenwa to keep out Calesso Manu’s powerful shot from an acute angle. Chances coming thick and fast at both ends of the park.

28′ – Yellow card, Osadebamwen Osas is the next to go into the referee’s book.

20′ – Yellow card, Vladimir Vá cautioned by the referee following a cynical challenge.

19′ – CLEARANCE! Vital last ditch clearance from Stephen Eze with an Angola player lurking inside the area. Great ball into the area from the right flank.

17′ – Yellow Card, Emeka Atuloma goes into the referee’s book.

13′ – Early change for Nigeria as Kalu Orji is forced from the field following an ankle injury. Timothy Timothy comes on in his place.

9′ – CHANCE! The Super Eagles squander another chance opportunity as Emeka Atuloma heads wide from a corner-kick.

6′ – Positive start by the Super Eagles who are all over their opponents in the early exchanges. Okpotu, though, wull be ruing his early miss.

1′ – CHANCE! Clear cut chance within the opening 20 seconds for Anthony Okpotu who bursts through on goal, but he slips at the vital moment with only the goalkeeper to beat. Guilt-edged miss by the forward.

1′ – Kick-off in Tangier! Place in the semifinals up for grabs!


Read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/01/29/2018-chan-nigeria-2-1-angola-as-it-happened/

FIFA and the Local Organising Committee are pleased to announce that the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ Team Workshop will take place in Sochi on 27-28 February.

The 32 participating teams of the 2018 FIFA World Cup™ are invited to attend the workshop, which will cover various aspects of the competition in a range of informative sessions.

The member associations are requested to participate in the workshop with representatives in the areas of football/technical matters (team coaches), medical (team doctors), media, accommodation, security, logistics, transportation and marketing. The workshop sessions will not be open to the media but opportunities to film or photograph the event will be organised.

Provisional media programme (a full media programme will follow in due course)

Monday, 26 February

09:00-20:00 Accreditation centre opening hours

12:00-21:00 Media centre opening hours

Tuesday, 27 February

09:00-20:00 Accreditation centre opening hours

09:00-21:00 Media centre opening hours

13:45 Group picture of coaches followed by filming and photo opportunity at the start of the workshop’s plenary session

Wednesday, 28 February

09:00-21:00 Media centre and accreditation centre opening hours

11:00-12:00 Mixed zone with coaches and other team delegates

Media accreditation required

The media accreditation process for the Team Workshop is now open via the FIFA Media Channel.

Media representatives interested in covering the two-day workshop must complete the media accreditation form available on the FIFA Media Channel. Please note that the accreditation form is only valid for the Team Workshop in Sochi. The deadline for accreditation applications is 26 January.

Information on visas and media hotels will be provided in due course on the FIFA Media Channel.

The workshop will take place at the Radisson Blu

Ayodeji Tinubu, the Special Adviser on Sports to the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode has been confirmed dead at the General Hospital, Epe.

Tinubu, who was the immediate past Chairman of Lagos State Sports Commission, was late on Thursday reportedly to have slumped while participating in a novelty match by members of the Lagos State Government cabinet who are having a retreat in Epe area of Lagos State.

He was a member of the immediate past administration in the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Hello and welcome to the commentary update of the 2018 African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A game between Sudan and Morocco at the Stade Mohamed V in Casablanca.

LINEUPS:

Sudan XI: Salim, Hassan, Abdalla, Ibrahim, Mohammad, Bashir, El Tahir, Bashir, Idris, Gismalla, Bakhit.

Morocco XI: M’Hamdi, El Hachimi, Aguerd, Semmoumy , Hammoudan, El Karti, Boulhroud, El Yamiq, Yabrane, Nanah, Bencharki.

COMMENTARY:

Thank you for joining us. Cheers!

Morocco finish top of Group A with a better goal-difference, while Sudan also advance to the next round as runners-up.

FULL-TIME: Sudan 0-0 Morocco.

90′ – The fourth official has added two minutes.

85′ – Morocco are piling pressure on Sudan, who doing most of the defending in the closing stages of the game.

83′ – Morocco sub: El Hadded IN, El Karti OUT.

82′ – Sudan sub: Elnour IN, Bakhit OUT.

80 – Ten minutes left on the clock and it remains goalless here in Casablanca.

75′ – Morocco forward El Karti fails to connect with a cross from the left-hand side with Salim rooted to the ground.

72′ – Morocco sub: Hadraf IN, Hommoudan OUT.

71′ Morocco sub: El Kaabi IN, Nanah OUT.

70′ – As things stand, Morocco will finish at the top of the Group A, while Sudan will go through to the next round as the runners-up.

65′ – Boulhorud tries to dribble his way into the Sudan box, but the Morocco midfielder loses possession.

62′ – Sudan sub: Eldin IN, Bashir OUT.

60′ – Sudan sub: Taher IN, Idris OUT.

55′ – Morocco continued ro dominate as Sudan’s Ibrahim makes a crucial clearance inside his own goal.

50′ – GREAT SAVE! Salim denies Bencharki from the spot-kick. It remains goalless.

49′ – PENALTY to Morocco. El Karti fouled by Bashir in the box.

46′ – The second-half is underway here in Casablanca.

HALF-TIME: Sudan 0-0 Morocco.

45′ – The fourth official has added one minute.

40′ – Sudan concede a corner-kick as pressure mounts on the Falcons of Jediane’s defence.

35′ – Morocco winger Hammoudan whips a dangerous cross into the Sudan box and Abdalla makes a crucial clearance.

30′ – Bakhit’s through pass is easily gathered by Morocco goalkeeper M’Hamdi as Sudan try to launch a rare attack.

25′ – It is still 0-0 as we approach the half-hour mark and Morocco have dominated thus far.

20′ – Sudan are happy to sit back and launch quick-counter attacks.

15′ – El Yamiq’s header is easily saved by Salim as the tournament hosts continue to pile pressure on Sudan.

10′ – El Karti finds some space outside the Sudan box and the Morocco attacker forces goalkeeper Salim into a good save with a long range shot.

5′ – Morocco are doing of the attacking in the opening stages of the game as they look to grab an early goal.

1′ – The match is underway here in Casablanca.

Sudan and the tournament hosts, Morocco, who are placed second and top of the Group A standings respectively, are heading into their last group stage game having both qualified for the knockout stages.

Read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/01/22/chan-2018-sudan-0-0-morocco-as-it-happened/

By Owolabi Abiola

Burkina Faso will face Cameroon in their final Group D match on Wednesday night which is scheduled for Stade ibn Batouta in Tangiers, kick-off at 21h00 CAT with the hope of slipping into the quarterfinals of the 2018 African Nations Championship.

The Stallions are currently placed third on the table with just one point from their opening two matches, having held Angola 0-0 before suffering a 2-0 loss to Congo over the weekend.
To have any hope of reaching the next round, the Burkinabe must defeat Cameroon and anticipate that Angola lose to Congo in the other Group D match which will be played simultaneously in Agadir.

This would see them tie points (4points), head-to-heads with the Sable Antelopes, leaving it up to goal difference as the tie-breaker.“I’m proud of my players, they played better than in the first game. They made a big first half,” said Burkina Faso coach Idrissa Traore in the wake of the weekend loss to Congo.He added, “I do not regret anything, this group has a future both collectively and individually. We are on a mission and we will fight until the end of the competition.”

At least the Stallions still have a chance in the competition, something Cameroon have been shorn of following back-to-back losses. Coach Rigobert Song was left disappointed by their elimination.“We made some mistakes during the match and that’s normal because the players are still learning,” Song said after their weekend defeat to Angola.

“I am happy with the performance of the players who have given their maximum.

“I will continue to work with them to make progress. On the other hand, I am disappointed by the cruel end.

“We’re eliminated from the tournament and it’s a huge disappointment.”

Read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/01/22/burkina-faso-qualification-for-quarterfinal-hangs-by-a-thread/

As the Home-based Super Eagles take on their Libyan counterparts today in their second group match at the on-going African Nations Championship in Morocco, formal international, Yisa Sofoluwe says the players must avoid wastage of scoring opportunity like they did against Rwanda on Monday.

Coach Salisu Yusuf’s men recorded 18 shots on goal and six on target in their first Group C match against Rwanda, with three of those efforts hitting the crossbar.

Speaking with The Guardian yesterday at the National Stadium Lagos, Sofoluwe advised that the team must be focused, particularly in the attack to triumph in today’s game. The Libyans are the defending champions.

“The players must be focused and work for one another throughout the duration of the match. They must take their chances,” Sofoluwe stated.

Also speaking yesterday, coach of Nath Boys FC, Achievement Yunus, said teamwork is needed for the Eagles to get all three points against Libya today. He urged the players to improve on their scoring ability.

Yunus rubbished insinuations in some quarters that the CHAN Eagles are not the best in the Nigerian leagues. He said: “Coach Yusuf has made his best selection, and we have to support the team. Some of the players can make it to the World Cup if the coach works on them.”

On his part, Coach Emmanuel Adeniyi said that the players must be calmed, adding that beating Libya would put them in a vintage position of winning the championship.

Other Nigerians who spoke yesterday advised the trio of Anthony Okpotu, Sunday Faleye and Emeka Ogbugh who had scoring chances in their last game to be clinical against a Libyan side that was not really tested defensively in their opening game win against Equatorial Guinea.

They also called on Kano Pillars midfielder, Rabiu Ali, who is supposed to be the team’s playmaker, to do more to ensure his crisp passes beat the defence of Libya for his strikers to score.

read more ; http://aipsafrica.com/2018/01/19/chan-eagles-in-make-or-burst-tie-against-libya/