₦airaland Forum

Okunowo: Rohr’s Squad For Senegal, Burkina Faso Friendlies Perfect

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By Richard Jideaka, Abuja:

Former Nigeria defender Gbenga Okunowo has urged Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr to take the two upcoming international friendly games with Senegal and Burkina Faso in London seriously and go for victories, Completesportsnigeria.com
reports.


Okunowo told Complete Sports that winning both games later this month will enhance Super Eagles' position in the FIFA rankings and give Nigeria in the right mentality to face their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers in June.


Despite complaints about some of the players included in and excluded from the squad for the friendlies, Okunowo is fully backing Rohr's choices.


"I am impressed with the list of players Rohr invited for the two international games in London and I believe the boys are capable of winning the two games," ex-Barcelona player Okunowo said.


"People should not criticise the coach over his selection, we should support Rohr to get the World Cup ticket


"The coach knows what he wants and it is only proper we allow him to do his work and get the results that will ensure that we get the World Cup ticket and progress in theAFCON qualifiers. They should allow him to concentrate and deliver."


On the home based Eagles not being selected for the two games in London, Okunowo said: "The domestic league players must work hard to meet the coach's standard and take their chance when it comes."

www.completesportsnigeria.com/okunowo-rohrs-squad-senegal-burkina-faso-friendlies-perfect/

Iwobi Doubtful For Arsenal’s FA Cup Clash Vs Lincoln

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By Izuchukwu Okosi:


Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, has revealed, ahead of their Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup quarter-final match against Lincoln City that young Nigeria international, Alex Iwobi, has no confirmeded role in the game, Comple tesportsnigeria.com reports.


Wenger who has been under lots of criticisms following the Gunners' lacklustre performances of late is quoted by Arsenal.com Thursday morning as saying the midfielder may have been hit by a sickness bug which stopped him from playing in the club's 5-1 defeat against Bayern Munich in the reverse leg of their Champions League fixtures.


Bayern advanced to the quarter-finals of the competition 10-2 on aggregate after an identical first leg result in Munich.


"I believe that we have two uncertainties: Danny Welbeck, who had to come off after the warm-up against Bayern due to sickness, and Alex Iwobi, who on the day of the game couldn’t turn up as well due to the same problem. Everyone else should be available," Winger said.


"It is possible, yes that the team has a sickness bug. We have a little problem on that front. I don’t know if it is a bug or not.


"They (medical crew of the team) called me on the morning of the game and said Iwobi cannot play and Welbeck at 5pm in the afternoon felt sick. We still tried to play him but it could be a bug, I don’t know."


The manager is likely to ring some changes to his side and Iwobi, if fielded, may not be able to play full time.


"I have always decided to play the team that has a good chance to qualify, and I will continue to do that of course.


Wenger however insists only the club doctors will determine how the supposed sickness bug will be stopped.


Iwobi was the target of Arsenal fans on Twitter after what they termed an average performance against Liverpool in their last Premier League game which the Gunners lost 3-1.


The Arsenal versus Lincoln game in the Emirates FA Cup kicks off 6.30pm Nigerian time on Saturday

www.completesportsnigeria.com/iwobi-doubtful-arsenals-fa-cup-clash-vs-lincoln/

Bafana Bafana Name Squad For Guinea-Bissau, Angola Friendlies Ahead Nigeria Clash

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Stand-in South Africa's Bafana Bafana coach, Owen da Gama, has announced a 25-man squad to play against Guinea-Bissau and Angola in back-to-back international friendly matches later in the month as they prepare to face Nigeria's Super Eagles when the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers start in June, Completesportsnigeria.com
reports.


It’s a mix of experience and youth, which also saw the return of those who were blacklisted by former coach Ephraim Mashaba.


In the first tune-up match, South Africa will take on African Wild Dogs (Guinea-Bissau) on Saturday, 25 March 2017at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.


Bafana Bafana will then face the Palacas Negras (Angola) in the second fixture which will be played on Tuesday, 28 March 2017at a venue to be confirmed soon


Da Gama named three debutants, Lorenzo Gordinho (Kaizer Chiefs), Phakamani Mahlambi (Bidvest Wits) and Luther Singh (SC Braga, Portugal).


There is also a recall for Kamohelo Mokotjo (FC Twente, Netherlands) and Kermit Erasmus (Lens, France), while goalkeepers Shuaib Walters (Cape Town City) and Darren Keet (Bidvest Wits) and striker Lebohang Manyama (Cape Town City) also make a return after a long absence.


“It is important to give as many players a chance as possible. The national team hasn’t been active since November in 2016 – that’s a six month break – so our mission is to prepare a team that will tackle the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup and 2019 AFCON qualifiers," Da Gama told Supersport.com.


"We want to assemble the best possible squad and create a healthy, competitive spirit within the team,” Da Gama added.


Da Gama underlined the importance of the team's fixtures against Nigeria when the 2019 AFCON qualifiers kick off.


The two continental giants missed the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations which Cameroon won in Gabon.


“I have been put in charge for these two games, and we will give as many players a run so that come the qualifiers we are not found wanting.”


Mahlambi and Singh are key players in the South African U-20 men’s national team (Amajita).
They have been rewarded for their great performances for both club and country.


The duo was instrumental in helping Amajita qualify for the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup that will be played in South Korea in May.


The long term aspiration of the team was reflected in Da Gama's revelation when he spoke on the need to blood the young ones in the team.


“Vision 2022 is all about having a team ready for the future, and that is why we have mixed experience with youth.


"It is crucial that we bring in these youngsters as early as now so they can have the experience needed when the time comes. We will monitor them during the camp and see how they cope and will take it from there, but there is a likelihood that they could feature in one of the matches because we want to see what they can offer when taken to a higher level," Supersport.com further quoted the tactician as saying.


"For far too long we have always waited for players to be 25 and want to introduce them to the senior national team, but that has to change now – we need to expose the vast array of talent we have in our country,” Da Gama concluded.


Bafana Bafana will assemble for their camp on Sunday, 19 Marchin Johannesburg before travelling the next day ( Monday, 20 March) to Durban.

www.completesportsnigeria.com/bafana-bafana-name-squad-guinea-bissau-angola-friendlies-ahead-nigeria-clash/

Oliseh: I’ll Tell My Grandkids About Historic Barcelona Miracle

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By Izuchukwu Okosi:

Former Super Eagles captain and coach Sunday Oliseh has lavished praises on Spanish giants Barcelona who qualified for the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League after overcoming a 4-0 first leg defeat to advance 6-5 on aggregate following their 6-1 win in the second leg of their round of 16 tie on Wednesday night.


Oliseh who currently coaches Dutch second-tier club Fortuna Sittard tweeted his feelings about the reversal of the tie between Barcelona and PSG moments after the match.


“This Barcelona 6-1 victory is one game that I will tell my grand kids about if God permits,” former Ajax, Juventus and Borussia Dortmund star Oliseh tweeted.


“I don’t think there has been a game like this.”


Barcelona defied history by reaching the quarterfinals Wednesday night by overturning a 4-0 first leg disadvantage in Paris, the first team in Champions League history to advance after suffering that massive first leg defeat.


Edison Cavani’s goal was not enough as Luis Suarez, Lionel Messi, Neymar (brace), Sergi Roberto and an own goal by Layvin Kurzawa ensured the Blaugrana will be among the last eight sides left in the UEFA Champions League.

www.completesportsnigeria.com/59941-2/

Hannover Talent Bazee Struggling To Overcome Knee Injury Ahead Of Senegal Friendly

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Hannover striker Noah Joel Sarenren Bazee, 20, is struggling to overcome a knee injury ahead of a potential debut against Senegal in about two weeks time.


With Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr reportedly watching from the stands, the Stadthagen-born youngster had to be substituted after 58 minutes in last weekend’s defeat at Karlsruher because of a minor knee problem.

Because of that ailment, Sarenren Bazee sat out training on Tuesday but the good news is that he trained fully with the squad on Wednesday.

Days leading up to the clash against KSC, the Hannover coach had been sweating on his fitness but he recovered in time.


Of a possible 23 games in the 2 Bundesliga, Bazee has only 11 appearances under his belt, having missed the first ten games of the season because of an operation.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=22303

Barcelona Watch Chelsea FB Moses Against West Ham, Iwobi Misses Chance To Show Off

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Barcelona higher-ups were at the London Stadium on Monday night for the Premier League encounter between West Ham and Chelsea.

Celebrated Spanish sports daily Marca has reported that sporting director Robert Fernandez and scout Urbano Ortega were among the 56,984 spectators at the London Stadium.


Victor Moses, who was linked with a move to Barcelona before extending his contract last week, started for the Blues and gave a good account of himself before he was replaced in the 75th minute.


However, the Spanish newspaper has speculated that the La Liga champions came to observe Cesar Azpilicueta, Marcos Alonso and Nemanja Matic at close quarters, and not the Nigeria international.


Another Super Eagles star Alex Iwobi missed the opportunity to display his wares when Fernandez and Ortega visited the Emirates Stadium for the Champions League meeting between Arsenal and Bayern Munich due to illness.

Igho Kingsley

http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=22306

Copied: THE POWER OF *I AM SORRY.*

*I am sorry,* a short but mighty sentence!

If you wish to live long, don't joke with this short sentence, *I am sorry.* Do you know how many people who had gone to early grave because they neglected the therapeutic power of *I am sorry.*

Most of the troubles in most homes are heightened because wives are too big to say *I am sorry* to their husbands and you can trust the ego of husbands in saying same to their wives.

Quarrel lingers between friends because no party wants to say *I am sorry.* Each says or asks, why should I be the first to say *I am sorry?* He or she would beat his or her chest and utter the ego phrase, *a whole me!*

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the part of the world where saying *I am sorry* is a hard nut to crack while curses are easily unleashed.

Welcome to the part of the world where people refer to a person who says *I am sorry* in a midst of a rift as a *weaker sex*: one who is not man enough; one who is foolish.

Welcome to Africa where saying *I am sorry* is tougher than forcing a donkey to pass through a needle hole.

All of us are victims of this discussion. We have lost valuable assets, money and even lives because of this cheap and affordable sentence *I am sorry.* It simply cost only a breath of speech.

Have you ever wondered why domestic violence is less pronounced in the western world? It is simply because they understand the efficacy of *I am sorry.*

Husbands say it to their wives and even children whenever they err, wives and children do the same and life goes on fine.

Friends, this is simply a piece to encourage us to cultivate a habit of saying *I am sorry.* It is difficult but readily affordable.

Learn how to say *I AM SORRY* even if you are right.

If this message offends you in one way or the other, *I am sorry*
Please, accept my apology

Copied: THE POWER OF *I AM SORRY.*

*I am sorry,* a short but mighty sentence!

If you wish to live long, don't joke with this short sentence, *I am sorry.* Do you know how many people who had gone to early grave because they neglected the therapeutic power of *I am sorry.*

Most of the troubles in most homes are heightened because wives are too big to say *I am sorry* to their husbands and you can trust the ego of husbands in saying same to their wives.

Quarrel lingers between friends because no party wants to say *I am sorry.* Each says or asks, why should I be the first to say *I am sorry?* He or she would beat his or her chest and utter the ego phrase, *a whole me!*

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the part of the world where saying *I am sorry* is a hard nut to crack while curses are easily unleashed.

Welcome to the part of the world where people refer to a person who says *I am sorry* in a midst of a rift as a *weaker sex*: one who is not man enough; one who is foolish.

Welcome to Africa where saying *I am sorry* is tougher than forcing a donkey to pass through a needle hole.

All of us are victims of this discussion. We have lost valuable assets, money and even lives because of this cheap and affordable sentence *I am sorry.* It simply cost only a breath of speech.

Have you ever wondered why domestic violence is less pronounced in the western world? It is simply because they understand the efficacy of *I am sorry.*

Husbands say it to their wives and even children whenever they err, wives and children do the same and life goes on fine.

Friends, this is simply a piece to encourage us to cultivate a habit of saying *I am sorry.* It is difficult but readily affordable.

Learn how to say *I AM SORRY* even if you are right.

If this message offends you in one way or the other, *I am sorry*
Please, accept my apology

Hibernian Goalie: Ambrose Great Addition In Our Promotion Race

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Goalkeeper of Scottish Championship club Hibernian, Ofir Marciano, says Nigerian defender, Efe Ambrose's experience at the highest level will be a big plus to the club's pursuit of promotion back to the Scottish top flight.

Hibernian are currently top in the league table in the Scottish Championship on 51 points, five points ahead of second placed Fa

They are also on course to retain the Scottish Cup which they won last season as they will face Aberdeen in the semi-final.


And since joining Hibernian on loan from Celtic, Ambrose has played two games for the Edinburgh-based club, a 3-1 win against AYR United in the Cup and in a 2-0 loss to St. Mirren in the league.

And speaking on Ambrose joining Hibernian, Marciano, also a teammate of the Nigerian defender at FC Ashdod of Israel, described it as a good transfer deal.


“He’s been playing at the highest level, so for us, it’s a benefit to have him here," Marciano told Edinburgh News.

"I think it will be good for us and good for Efe who is happy to be back playing again.

“Efe obviously has that winning mentality, but when I look at our squad, I see good fighters, good players who want to win even in tough times.


“He jumped at the chance to come here which is good, but you don’t look on Hibs as a Championship club but as one of the top four in the country.

“It’s a massive club, one that Efe knows from playing against Hibs and I know he feels he has made a good decision.”

Recalling their days together in Israel, Marciano said: “There were a few Nigerian players. Israel is a nice country, nice weather and warm people so it was easy to adapt. It’s like that here in Scotland, I feel everyone has welcomed me and so it’s been easy to adapt to the football and the lifestyle.


“But Efe is the sort who could adapt to living and playing anywhere, he’s a happy guy. He’s a good friend of mine, so I’m glad he’s come to Hibs because he will be a good addition to the squad.


“We had a good partnership at Ashdod and, to be honest, it’s as if we’ve never stopped playing together. It’s good to have someone you have played with before and the chemistry will get better, not just with me but the rest of the team. I don’t think either of us would have thought for one minute when we were together at Ashdod that we’d be team-mates together again in Scotland, never mind Hibs.

“But that’s the nice part of football, you never know what might happen. You have to dream if you want to achieve good things.”

Read more at https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/e/#LZ8dyWA85yzCUWRe.99

Omeruo Donates N2m To Ailing Emetole

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By Johnny Edward:

Super Eagles defender, Kenneth Omeruo, has donated the sum of two million naira to former Rangers International and Heartland FC coach, Kelechi Emetole who has been diagnosed for throat cancer Completesportsnigeria.com report.


Completesportsnigeria.com gathered that Omeruo got in touch with Emetole's wife​, ​Phoebe, from his base in Turkey and offered financial support to the ​former Nigeria international who needed urgent medical attention.


According to Emetole's wife, he​r husband needs $11,000 for ​an urgent surgery​ to be carried out in India.​

Emetole, a defender during his active days and fondly called Caterpillar, played for Nigeria at the 1976 Nations Cup in Ethiopia. He has also served as assistant coach in the national teams; the U-17 world champions, Golden Eaglets of 1985, and Flying Eagles and Super Eagles.

Meanwhile, Emetole family is appealing for more support from well-meaning Nigerians through the United Bank for Africa (UBA) account details made public recently.

The bank account details: United Bank for Africa (UBA); Name: Kelechi Emetole; Account Number: 1007868369.

Read more at https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/omeruo-donates-n2m-ailing-emeteole/#X2AzvVFDPDCvB5LZ.99

Gent’s Kalu: Mechelen Clash Like A Cup Final

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By Johnny Edward:

Nigerian forward Samuel Kalu has outlined Gent's ambition to finish in the Belgian Championship play-off spot following a hard-fought away win over Waasland-Beveren on Saturday, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.


Kalu provided two assists as the Buffaloes came from a goal down to beat Waasland-Beveren 3-2. It was Gent's 13th win of the season and Kalu believes that the final league game against Mechelen on Sunday will be played as a 'Cup final'.

Mechelen defeated Anderlecht 3-2 to move fifth in the Belgian First Division A.


The victory saw Gent move to seventh in the log and close the gap on sixth placed Sporting Charleroi to just one point after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Kortrijk.


A win for Gent and a defeat or draw for Sporting Charleroi who travel to Lokeren in the final league match next Sunday will secure a Championship play-off spot for Gent.

"We knew that three points were badly needed and we did everything to win them," Kalu told the Gent's official website.

"We did not really panic, even after trailing 2-1. We had confidence in a good outcome.


"Next week awaits us a heavy decisive match against KV Mechelen, we will tackle as if it were a final. We will already do everything possible to win that," he concluded.

Read more at https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/gents-kalu-mechelen-clash-like-cup-final/#cxcWCco6S7tOAklV.99

How has amnesty program Gov Samuel Ortom benefited the Benue indigenes? Everyone now is defenseless.

Alas it was a ploy by the powers that be to sell the Tiv people to the Fulani Militia

The wicked will never know peace.

Leicester City Striker Ahmed Musa Breaks Silence Over The Dismissal Of Ranieri

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Ahmed Musa has expressed regret over the dismissal of Claudio Ranieri and has wished the Italian manager the best in his future endeavors.


Following a poor run of results in domestic competitions, the Premier League champions parted company with Ranieri on Thursday night, nine months after he guided the Foxes to their first league title since the formation of the club.


“So sad to see you go. I am glad to have worked under such a great manager like you,” Musa posted on Instagram.


“Thank you for the opportunity you gave me!! I wish you all the best in the future. May God bless you!.”


Claudio Ranieri was among the Leicester City higher-ups that sanctioned the acquisition of Musa from CSKA Moscow last summer.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=22187

Why Ranieri Was Dismissed? Not For Starting Musa Ahead Of Gray - Report

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Top British newspaper Daily Mail has dismissed reports that Leicester City parted company with Claudio Ranieri for starting Ahmed Musa ahead of Demarai Gray in their Champions League clash with Sevilla on Wednesday night.


The Italian manager’s fate was already sealed even before the squad traveled to Andalusia, with the club management deciding to relieve him of his duties after the 2-0 loss to Swansea City on February 12.


Earlier it was reported that Leicester City’stop players held a meeting with the leadership of the club and were in favour of Ranieri’s resignation.


A day after the Premier League champs lost 2-1 to Sevilla, the management announced the dismissal of Ranieri.


Leicester City occupy the 18th position in the top-flight with 21 points in the kitty after 25 matches played.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=22188

Moses Simon Watched By Scouts From Everton, Southampton & West Ham

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Representatives of Everton, Southampton and West Ham were among the 80,465 spectators at Wembley for the Europa League showdown between Tottenham Hotspur and Gent on Thursday night.


The Sun has reported that the three English Premier League teams came to run the rule over a player in the Gent squad, and suggested that goalkeeper Kalinic was watched by the scouts.


Having said that, Nigeria international Moses Simon, who has been linked with a switch to England in the near future, was one of the most outstanding players on the pitch for the Belgian team.


The exciting winger was replaced by Jeremy Perbet with fifteen minutes left on the clock.


Simon has contractual obligations with Gent until the end of the 2018-2019 season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=22192

Eagles Watch: Troost- Ekong Benched Again, Kalu Scores, Esiti Subbed Off, Rabiu Ibrahim Returns, Moses Simon Rested

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Belgian side Gent gave themselves a glimmer of hope of making it into the Belgium League play offs with a comprehensive 3-1 win over Royal Excel Mouscron.


Gent started with two of the five Nigerians at the club in Anderson Esiti and Samuel Kalu who scored the opening goal of the game. His second goal since his transfer from Slovakian side AS Trencin in January.


Esiti lasted 67 minutes before he was replaced. The giant midfielder has grown into an integral member of the club as he has started their last four games in all competitions.


Meanwhile Super Eagles defender William Troost-Ekong endured another frustrating time on the bench for the fourth consecutive league game.


He was left on the bench for the entire duration of the game alongside Moses Simon, who was rested after his midweek exploit against Tottenham Hotspur, while Rabiu Ibrahim return from a tendon injury appears to be complete as he made the bench.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/26/eagles-watch-troost-ekong-benched-again-kalu-scores-esiti-subbed-off-rabiu-ibrahim-returns-moses-simon-rested/

Red Hot Kingsley Sokari On Target For CS Sfaxien Again

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Kingsley Sokari scored what ended up as a consolation despite been the opening goal as his Tunisian side CS Sfaxien slumped to a 2-1 loss away to Club Africain.


Sokari drew first blood for his side by breaking the deadlock in the 51st minute for his third goal of the season in Tunisia, but a brace from Matthew Rusike condemned them to a 1-2 loss.


This season is proving to be his best in front of goal, aside his usual contribution in the midfield of his team where he has three assist to his name.


The former Nigeria youth international almost left the club during the January transfer window, but the move failed to see the light of the day due to Sfaxien asking price.


He was reportedly priced out of a move to French side Metz, and the club’s subsequent transfer ban by FIFA over an unresolved transfer dispute made them pull all the stop to keep him.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/26/red-hot-kingsley-sokari-on-target-for-cs-sfaxien-again/

Swiss-Nigerian Defender Akanji Continues Purple Patch For League Gaints FC Basel

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Highly rated Swiss-Nigerian defender Manuel Akanji continued his fine form for FC Basel starring in their 3-1 win over Luzern.


Akanji has enjoyed a splendid 2017 so far as all of his four appearances in the league has come since the resumption of the league in January, with a goal to his name.


He joined the Swiss giants from second division side Winterthur after making 35 league appearances before turning 18 years old.


21 year old Akanji has already represented Switzerland at youth level but still remains eligible for Nigeria at senior level, although he is yet to be approached by Nigeria according to reports gathered by Owngoalnigeria.com.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/26/swiss-nigerian-defender-akanji-continues-purple-patch-for-league-gaints-fc-basel/

Super Sub Fred Friday Rescues AZ Alkmaar With Late Goal Against PEC Zwolle

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21 year old Nigerian forward Fred Friday scored his third league goal for Dutch side AZ Alkmaar which saved them from defeat helping them to a 1-1 draw against PEC Zwolle.


After a slow start to life in the Netherlands, Friday appears to have found his feet with three goals this year, which includes a brace against Dutch League giants PSV in a 2-4 loss for his team.


The former Lillestroem forward was introduced in the 71st minute with his side trailing PEC Zwolle 0-1 after the visitors took a 48 minute lead.


Fred Friday proved his mettle in front of goal by tapping in a ball from Levi Garcia with eight minutes left to play in the game, which also had Kingsley Ehizibue on for 90 minutes for the visitors before he was replaced in stoppage time.


He now has 9 goals in all competitions for AZ, with four of his goals coming for the B team while five came in games for the senior team in the domestic cup, Europa League and the Dutch League.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/26/super-sub-fred-friday-rescues-az-alkmaar-with-late-goal-against-pec-zwolle/

Ex Man City Boss – Iheanacho Is Very Happy At Man City

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Former boss of Manchester City Manuel Pellegrini who is now the head coach of Chinese side Hebei China Fortune has spoken out about his plans to sign some players he has worked with in the past.


Pellegrini who gave Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho his breakthrough at Manchester City last season, listed the Nigerian as part of the players he would love to work with at the Chinese club in the future.


Although the Nigerian has found games hard to come by under new City boss Pep Guardiola, Pellegrini insist the 20 year old forward is very happy at the Etihad.


” I have worked with a whole lot of players, but some I feel I won’t love working with them in the nearest future but I won’t mind luring some to join me in China,” Pellegrini said.


” The young players have worked with in the past are the ones I strongly feel we could work again before I retire, there are many like Iheanacho but I know he is very happy at Manchester City”,

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/19/ex-man-city-boss-iheanacho-is-very-happy-at-man-city/

Introducing Dutch-Nigerian Forward Arnaut Danjuma Groeneveld Who Plays In Same Team With Taiwo Awoniyi

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Few weeks after coach of Nigeria Gernot Rohr confirmed that Dutch-Nigerian full back Tyroone Ebuehi will play for Nigeria despite being born in the Netherlands, another battle with the Dutch over Arnaut Danjuma Groenveld could happen in the future.


20 year old Groenveld was born in Lagos Nigeria but has spent the best part of his life in the Netherlands where he began his football career.


He was on the books of giants PSV Eindhoven starring regularly for their U-19s but didn’t make the grade to the first team before he was loaned out to Jong PSV.


Groeneveld wasn’t offered fresh terms by PSV, and NEC Nijmegen were quick to swoop in for the midfielder who is comfortable playing on the either flanks or as the main striker.


At international level he is yet to be capped by either Nigeria or Netherlands, but judging by his progress at NEC this season where he has made four appearances, it is now a case of when both nations will slug it out for his international future not if.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/19/introducing-dutch-nigerian-forward-arnaut-danjuma-groeneveld-who-plays-in-same-team-with-taiwo-awoniyi/

Roma Nura Abdullahi Could Be The Long Term Solution To Eagles Right Back Problems After Returning From Injury

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Highly rated Nigerian full back Nura Abdullahi could be the long term solution to the right back issues current bedeviling the Super Eagles of Nigeria.


Nura, who is highly rated around the corridors of Italian side AC Roma has been plagued by two serious injury since joining the Serie A side on a permanent transfer from Spezia, after a fruitful loan spell alongside his child hood friend Sadiq Umar.


However he has returned to full fitness and will mark his comeback with a game for the Primavera sie of the Rome based outfit against Crotone, which could be the spring he needs to make a first team appearance for the team.


Quick and strong in tackle, the 19 year old was heavily linked with a move to Barcelona before he suffered a minor cardiac issue last year that required surgery.


The first team coach of Roma Luciano Spalleti made reference to his return from injury during his press conference ahead of their Serie A tie against Torino, a sign of how high the club rates the defender, who at a point in time was voted the best right teen back in Italy, while at Spezia.


Coach of the Nigeria senior team Gernot Rohr is short of options at full back, particularly at right back, where he has used three different players in the three games he has handled Nigeria.


Out of the three players, the coach has used only Musa Muhammed is a natural right back but his lack of game time at Turkish side Istanbul Basaksehir, means the duo of Wilfred Ndidi and Kenneth Omeruo have been deployed to his role despite their natural positions as central midfielder and defender.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/19/roma-nura-abdullahi-could-be-the-long-term-solution-to-eagles-right-back-problems-after-returning-from-injury/

Swiss-Nigerian Shot Stopper Osigwe Eager To Challenge Ikeme For Eagles Number One Spot

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Swiss born Nigerian shot stopper Sebastian Osigwe is well in line to challenge the duo of Carl Ikeme and Daniel Akpeyi for the Super Eagles number one spot.


The 22 year old shot stopper has been mentioned to coach Gernot Rohr, who has been monitoring the progress of the 22 year old shot stopper who plays for third division side SC Kriens since last year.


A mini goalkepper crisis that made late call up Daniel Akpeyi to man the post for Nigeria against Algeria, has made Rohr intensify his search for credible options to forestall a repeat.


Osigwe is first choice at promotion chasing Kriens, and despite representing Switzerland at different age levels, he is keen on playing for Nigeria at senior level, and trained with the U-20s of Nigeria in 2013 during preparations for the World Youth Championship.


The highly rated shot stopper is hoping to be called up for one of the two friendly games the Super Eagles will play next month.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/19/swiss-nigerian-shot-stopper-osigwe-eager-to-challenge-ikeme-for-eagles-number-one-spot/

Why Ezekiel Bassey Is Yet To Make Barcelona Debut

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Barcelona new signing Ezekiel Bassey was among the players not listed for action by coach Gerard Lopez when the B team defeated UD Cornella 2-0.


Ezekiel arrived the club on loan from Nigeria Premier League side Enyimba FC of Aba on transfer deadline day, but he is yet to make is debut 19 days after his transfer.


The 20 year old has been impressive in traning with the B team, but he is yet to be granted a work permit which will allow him play in competitive games even for the main team.


He will be issued a work permit in a few days time as exclusively reported by Owngoalnigeria.com few weeks ago, and he is expected in Nigeria next week to complete the process of his work permit application.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/19/why-ezekiel-bassey-is-yet-to-make-barcelona-debut/

Ighalo scores twice in China

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Odion Ighalo scored again for his new club, Changchun Yatai, to make it three goals in two games following his debut goal two days ago.


The Super Eagles striker scored a brace for the Chinese Super League club on Saturday, in another friendly game, even though they lost 3-2 this time.


The 27-year old has scored for his new team in a 3-3 draw against a Korean club in a friendly two days earlier in their training camp.


Ighalo and his teammates will participate in their last friendly on Monday, February 20, before returning to China ahead of their first game of the new season against Shanghai SIPG.


The former Udinese striker joined the Chinese club from Premier League side Watford last month and is now reportedly the highest earning Nigerian player.

www.soccernet.com.ng/2017/02/ighalo-scores-twice-in-china.html

Is mesmerizing Sone Aluko due a Super Eagles recall?

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Ahead of Fulham’s match with Tottenham Hotspur, Goal explore whether Gernot Rohr should reconsider the forgotten Nigeria star.


Players that excite will always bring joy to fans that pay to see them play. After all, this is why football is called the beautiful game.


However, talents like Sone Alukoare a dying breed, a sign of the times, unfortunately.


In modern football, the obscene infatuation with winning and not losing has overshadowed what made the sport so popular—entertainment.


Technicians like Aluko are now being overlooked for more efficient and hardworking players, and there was little surprise when the forward was released by Hull City last summer, days after the club gained promotion to the Premier League.


Surely the wing wizard could have had an impact in the EPL, although, having scored only three in 31—and with injuries affecting his progress on Humberside—maybe it was completely understandable that his four years in East Yorkshire ended when they did.


He was subsequently snapped up by Fulhamon a free transfer—amidst interest from a plethora of clubs— and has enjoyed a renaissance this season with a series of breathtaking performances for the Cottagers.

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Under Slavisa Jokanovic, the former Rangers man is reborn and enjoying his football again.
At his best, the attacker is unplayable, and his ability to wriggle his way around defenders with ease makes him a joy to watch.
In the last two seasons, the West London club finished 17th and 20th in the Championship, but this season they’re in eighth and pushing for the play-offs. It’s simplistic to put Fulham’s resurgence all down to the signing of the ex-Tiger, but one can’t deny he’s been a key cog in their revival.
So good was he in the first half of the season that he was voted the Sky Bet Championship Player of the Month for October, a reward for dazzling the second tier of English football with his creativity and intelligence. He’s also been nominated for Football League Player of the Year in the London Football Awards slated to be held next month.

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The talent of the Hounslow-born attacker has never been in question, but his consistency levels have. Blighted by injuries no more, he seems to be back on his feet and playing strictly out of the top drawer. To date, 27-year-old Aluko has four goals and five assists in 30 Championship outings, his best overall contribution since the 2012-13 season.
However, despite his resurgence, Aluko hasn’t been called-up to the Nigeria squad since the appointment of Gernot Rohr to join the Eagles’ revolution, even though he’s been in a rich vein of form. The Super Eagles could do with someone with his composure and class on the ball, a player whose link-up play is top notch and has the ability to play in tight spaces.
The former Aberdeen man last donned the green of the three-time African champions in a friendly against South Africa way back in March 2015, and surely the time is right for him to end his two-year exile from the national side.

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Able to play on both flanks, in the hole and off the front-man, his versatility would greatly benefit the Super Eagles and the German tactician must surely have the attacker in his sights. Also, at 27, the former Birmingham player is still in his prime and has so much to offer if he’s recalled, while he offers the kind of experience that may be lacking for many of Rohr’s ‘New Generation’.

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With Fulham set to host Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup 5th Round at Craven Cottage this weekend, in what looks set to be a mouthwatering London derby, the spotlight will be on Aluko as he seeks to prove himself to Rohr in a prestige contest.
With the spotlight being back on Craven Cottage, the match represents an ideal opportunity for Aluko to make an impact, but irrespective of his performance against high-flying Spurs, he’s been in top form for months and has done enough to justify a recall.
While Fulham have been beneficiaries of the wideman’s resurgence, could the Super Eagles also exploit his return to prominence?

m.goal.com/x/en-ng/news/4079/features/2017/02/18/32809722/is-mesmerizing-sone-aluko-due-a-super-eagles-recall

Brilliant Ikeme Beaten Twice As Chelsea Edge Wolves In Emirate FA Cup

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Wolverhampton Wanderers net minder Carl Ikeme was among the top performers for his side as they crash out of the Emirate Cup after losing 0-2 to Chelsea.


The English Premier League leaders found the Super Eagles first choice goalkepper a tough nut to crack in the first half, with the Nigerian acting as a sweeper keeper for his side when Chelsea try to play on the break.


His quickness of his line and decisiveness in dealing with crosses helped Wolves go into the half time break tied at 0-0 against a full strength Chelsea side.


However Ikeme was beaten in the second half when Spanish forward Pedro headed home a cross from Willian past the brilliant Ikeme in the 65th minute.


Wolves went forward in search of a leveller to force the tie into a replay but Chelsea were resolute in defence, with old war horse John Terry and Kourt Zouma equal to all what was thrown at them by the home side.


Chelsea top scorer Diego Costa put the game beyond the reach of Wolves with an 89th minute strike from inside the box to wrap up a comprehensive 2-0 win for the Blues.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/18/brilliant-ikeme-beaten-twice-as-chelsea-edge-wolves-in-emirate-fa-cup/

Why Iheanacho Was Left On The Bench In Man City FA Cup Tie Against Huddersfield Town – Guardiola Explains

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Coach of Manchester City Pep Guardiola has revealed the reason why Kelechi Iheanacho wasn’t introduced in Manchester City 0-0 draw away to Huddersfield Town in the Emirate FA Cup.


Iheanacho was for the first time in a month included in the match day squad by Guardiola but the Nigerian watched the entire duration of the game from the bench.


” We have only one striker (Iheanacho) on the bench, but we wanted to bring in creativity in the midfield and also inject pace on the wings, that was why we didn’t introduce a striker for a striker”, he said.


” Huddersfield Town were very organised at the back and kudos to them for keeping the scores at 0-0, we go again in few days time in what will be an intresting tie”.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/18/why-iheanacho-was-left-on-the-bench-in-man-city-fa-cup-tie-against-huddersfield-town-guardiola-explains/

Nigerian Talent Onyedima Outshine Ahmed Musa As Millwall Stun Leicester City In FA Cup

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English Premier League Champions Leicester City were dumped out of the FA Cup by League One side Millwall courtesy of a late goal by Shaun Cummings.


Little known Nigerian midfield sensation Fred Onyedima followed up his fine performance against Watford in the previous round with another eye catching display in the midfield.


Onyedima lasted the entire duration of the game, and put up a performance which prove why he is so highly rated and sort after by top English clubs.


20 year old Onyedima wasn’t the only Nigerian on the pitch as Leicester City big money buy Ahmed Musa lasted the entire duration of the tie but failed to deliver his side from the shock cup loss.


However Wilfred Ndidi was an unused substitute in the game, as manager Claudio Ranieri rested some of his regular players ahead of their Champions League round of 16 game against Sevilla next week.

owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/18/nigerian-talent-onyedima-outshine-ahmed-musa-as-millwall-stun-leicester-city-in-fa-cup/