₦airaland Forum

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Are U-23 Team Set To Surmount Congo Counterparts?
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When the Nigerian U-23 national team known as “Dream Team VI’’ file out on Sunday in Port Harcourt against their Congo counterparts for the CAF U-23 African Championship qualifier, will they overcome them?
These and many more have been the questions on the lips of many Nigeria soccer fans as both sides expressed readiness to lift the day
in the encounter scheduled for the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, and dubbed “The Diables Rouges’’.
The Congolese will be led by renowned coach Claude Leroy, a French tactician and a known name in African football.
Leroy has made a name coaching African teams. He has coached the national teams of Cameroon, Ghana, Senegal and now handling the national team of Congo.
Already, Leroy has named 11 professional players to face their Nigerian opponents in what promises to be an interesting game.
Congo, it will be recalled, sent out highly rated Ghana to set up a clash with the Dream Team.
Leroy is on record to be the first coach to beat the Super Eagles in their fortress in Calabar last year during the Equatorial Guinea AFCON qualifying match.
Football analysts believe that the Sunday clash is expected to be interesting because the Super Eagles paid back Leroy and his chargers back with a 2-0 win in Brazzaville during the same AFCON qualifying match.
“I expect Leroy to come out smoking to prove a point in Port Harcourt and his ultimate aim is to win Nigeria again,’’ said Mr Lekan Ige, Secretary, Sports Writers Association, Rivers State chapter.
But the national U-23 team coach, Samson Siasia, said though he had a lot of respect for Leroy, his team would give a good account of itself.
Siasia had also assured Nigerians that his team would not disappoint them, especially, playing at home in Port Harcourt.
Already, the Dream Team under Siasia’s guide, has won Gabon and Zambia before the anticipated clash with Congo.
“It is also on record that the Dream Team has won several friendly games and had remained intact since its inception’’ Timi Ebikaboro, the team`s Media Officer told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
The choice of Port Harcourt and the brand new stadium, named after ex-Green Eagles winger, Adokiye Amiesimaka, has been a source of joy to many football followers in the country.
Rivers Governor, Ezebunwo Nyesom Wike, accepted that the state will host the match and immediately set up a Local Organising Committee (LOC), comprising of experts to organise the match.
Wike had also promised the team a hansome monetary reward to win the match.
Boma Iyaye, Chairman of the Committee, said the state was ready to host the match.
“The Rivers government decided to make the match free to make fans come out en masse to cheer the Dream Team to victory.
“The committee has already swung into action. We have received the team on arrival in Port Harcourt and we are working hard to make sure they lacked nothing,’’ he said.
Iyaye said the committee had been working for the past two weeks to ensure that the facility met the world football governing body, FIFA’s and the African Football Confederation, CAF’s standard.
“You will see me that when we came in here, there were things we needed to update and we have done that.
“We improved on what we met to ensure that everything was brought to international standard. We just have few things to do, so, we are very prepared,” he said.
According to Iyaye, what we are doing now is to dot the Is and cross the Ts. You can see the pitches lush and the dressing rooms are almost ready.
He said enough sensitisation had been done to create the culture of fans and spectators coming to the stadium to watch football.
Chris Green, Chairman of the Technical sub-committee of the LOC and member of Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) board, said the pitch was ready for any international match.
“The pitch is ready for football; it is well marked, very well delineated. I can say, we are ready to go,” he said.
Green said the U-23 team was very important because it was next to the Super Eagles. Players in that team could as well play for the Super Eagles.
“What I expect from them is, they should be very disciplined and play in accordance with what they have been taught.
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leadership.ng/sports/447872/are-u-23-team-set-to-surmount-congo-counterparts
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Are U-23 Team Set To Surmount Congo Counterparts?
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https://leadership.ng/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/Football-300x225.jpg

“The coaches should spot their tactics and techniques, so that they deliver at the end of the day,” he said.
For Adokiye Amiesimaka, a member of the LOC, the stadium named after him is an honour.
“I am grateful to the former Governor of Rivers state, Rotimi Amaechi for naming the stadium after me.
“I am equally grateful to Gov. Nyesom Wike for putting me in a committee to orgainse this match.
“ It is my wish and prayer that the Dream Team wins the match against Congo,’’ he said.
The Security and Medical Sub-Committees say they are ready for the match
The Chairman, DSP Usman Ochenika, said arrangement had been made for adequate security for a hitch-free game.
“As far as the match is concerned, we are not having any problem with regards to security.
“The Rivers Commissioner of Police, Chris Ezike, has put everything in place to make sure that visitors and hosts with match officials and spectators as well as government officials are well protected,’’ he said.
Agba Harry, Chairman, Medical Sub-Committee, said the medical center at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium was set for any emergency that might occur during the match.
“Our duty is pretty basic, we provide ambulance service, the medical center here is prepared for the match and we also have the Braithwaite Memorial Hospital for referrals.
“We successfully hosted the National Sports Festival four years ago and we were excellent.
“We went to Lagos for National Sports Festival, in 2012 and our emergency preparation was the best.
“So, this one little match, for us, it is a walk in the park. We do not have issues with what we can do and what we cannot do. We’ve done it before, so, it is not a big story,” he said.
Some football fans in Port Harcourt say they are expecting victory from the Dream Team.
Victor Dokubo, a supporter of Sharks FC of Port Harcourt, said he was optimistic the team will win Congo.
“ Samson Siasia is a good coach. I have followed this team since he took over last year.
“ I am optimistic that they will win Congo and qualify for the African U-23 Championship scheduled for Senegal in November,’’ he said.
Boms Amadi, a Dolphins FC supporter, echoed same view.
He urged the National U-23 team not to underrate the Congolese as doing so might back fire.
“In all, I expect an interesting match because Congo under Claude Leroy is aiming at winning Nigeria. But, I do not see it happening because they will meet a different Nigerian team,” he said.
Football analysts believe that fans in Port Harcourt will be treated to an interesting game by players expected to be the new look Super Eagles.
From the preparations, the Dream Team will strive not to disappoint Nigerians. They know what is at stake and would draw from their experiences and those of others to be at the Senegal Championships.
Of course, they know that it is an opportunity to exhibit their skills and good performance will ultimately sell them to the soccer world. (NAN)
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leadership.ng/sports/447872/are-u-23-team-set-to-surmount-congo-counterparts

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Siasia out to stop Devils and 'witch doctor jinx'
By: Gary Al-Smith
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Samson Siasia will face his biggest test as coach of Nigeria U23s on Sunday.
His charges host Congo in Port Harcourt in a qualifier for the CAF U23 Championship.
Siasia's Dream Team VI say they are fully prepared for victory as they take another step towards featuring at next year’s Olympics in Rio. "We have been preparing hard for the game and I am sure we are going to win the game convincingly, I am looking at us getting like a 4-0 win, but victory is what we will play for,” said Siasia.
“We are making efforts to get their match tapes to know them better. The boys are in high spirit and ready for the task."
Siasia will be without several of his foreign-based call-ups like Musa Mohammed, Kelechi Iheanacho and Moses Simon, but Turkey-based forward Umar Aminu, Taiwo Awoniyi and Godwin Saviour will be available for selection.
The combination of Awoniyi and Saviour was evident at last month’s FIFA U20 World Cup in New Zealand after they had also combined to eliminate Zambia in a 2015 All Africa Games qualifier.
However, Congo coach Claude Leroy(below)is equally bullish ahead of this showdown after they eliminated highly-fancied Ghana in the previous round of the qualifiers.
"We have a huge chance of not only eliminating Nigeria, but qualifying for the Olympics. There is no reason why we should fear them," said the much travelled Frenchman, who last year led Congo full international team to shock the Super Eagles 3-2 in a 2015 AFCON qualifier.
Congo have invited a dozen foreign pros and will parade several full internationals including goalkeeper Christoffer Mafoumbi, who was outstanding at this year’s AFCON as the Congo Red Devils reached the last eight in Equatorial Guinea.
The CAF U23 Championship will be staged by Senegal later this year and will serve as the qualifier for the 2016 Olympic football event.
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mobi.supersport.com/football/nigeria/news/150718/Siasia_out_to_stop_Devils_and_witch_doctor_jinx

Xzbit91:
I beg to disagree with your conclusion, Sokari is a midfielder while Aminu is a striker. His midfield tactics might already be balanced and bringing in Sokari could complicate things, given that the team has problems finishing their chances, Aminu could bring the relevant foreign experience even if he were to come off the bench during the game. I could be wrong though, jus trying to reason where he is coming from not everything is as it seems

That'll be double standards wouldn't it? Setting a rule for a particular set of players and then breaking it for another set just because it suits you.

adegwurulez:
That'll be double standards wouldn't it? Setting a rule for a particular set of players and then breaking it for another set just because it suits you.

that is why he's the coach, his job, his decision

Xzbit91:
that is why he's the coach, his job, his decision

well, before he makes any such decisions, he should remember that his decisions directly affects millions of soccer fans and as such, any dicision capable of sowing discord in camp - like this one - should be made rightly.

adegwurulez:
well, before he makes any such decisions, he should remember that his decisions directly affects millions of soccer fans and as such, any dicision capable of sowing discord in camp - like this one - should be made rightly.

I'm sure he and the millions of fans want same thing, to qualify for the olympics. Millions of fans will have millions of opinions but as the coach, the buck stops at his desk

terzurum5:
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Siasia Picks Awoniyi, Saviour For Congo Clash
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—Yahaya Also in 18-man Squad For Qualifier
Nigeria U-23s coach, Samson Siasia, has selected Flying Eagles stars Taiwo Awoniyi, Godwin Saviour and Musa Yahaya among the 18 players for Sunday's African U-23 Championship final round, first leg qualifier against Congo in Port Harcourt.
Other players picked for the clash include regulars goalkeeper Emmanuel Daniel, Oghenekaro Etebor, Taiwo Awoniyi, Azubuike Okechukwu, Erhun Obanor new call-up Umar Aminu.
According to the Nigeria Football Federation, Siasia urged those who did not make the 18-man list not to feel bad, but to see it as a challenge to up their game and make future lists. He told those who were selected to see their selection as a privilege and should show to the world that they were selected on merit.
"I want to charge those of you selected to see this as a rare privilege knowing that millions of Nigerians are banking on you to put smiles on their faces come Sunday," Siasia said.
"I have the confidence that you guys can beat Congo, but all that will depend on you guys showing that on the field of play. The Nigeria Football Federation and the Rivers State government have done so much for us to make us win, so it's now left for us to let them know that we are true ambassadors of our country."
The final list is made up of two goalkeepers, six defenders, three midfielders and seven strikers:
Daniel Emmanuel
Chukwuebuka Iroha
Stanley Amuzie
Azubuike Okechukwu
Segun Oduduwa
Obanor Erhun
Godwin Saviour
Etebor Oghenekaro
Junior Ajayi
Usman Mohammed
Etor Daniel
Yusuf Mohammed
Sadiq Atanda
Chima Akas
Austin Oladapo
Taiwo Awoniyi
Aminu Umar
Musa Yahaya
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What a mediocre squad.
So deficient in experience and exposure.
Is siasia telling us that this is the best crop of players that are U23 from Nigeria?

The last Olympic team even had better players: Nnamdi Oduamadi(was in AC Milan) Ahmed Musa(jst moved to CSKA), Odion Ighalo(Was in Udenese), Anthony Ujah(Was in FC Kolon), Haruna Lukman(I think Dynamo Kiev), Gbolahan Salami(3SC), Raheem Lawal(Played in Roumania then), Ganiu Oseni(Was in a Russian club), Obiorah Nwankwo(was in a seria A club), Jude Aneke (Record goals King of d NPFL was Kaduna United arrow head) among others.

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CAF U-23 Championship qualifiers, Saturday 18 July – As it happened
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Welcome to AfricanFootball’s live coverage of the 2015 CAF U-23 Championship qualifiers’ third round first legs.
The return fixtures will be played in a fortnight, and the seven aggregate winners will join Senegal at the final tournament which will take place from 28 November to 12 December 2015, with the top three teams set to qualify for the 2016 Summer Olympics men’s football tournament.
Three matches are scheduled for this Saturday, with the remaining teams to be in action on Sunday.
(All times CAT)
SATURDAY 18 JULY 2015
16h30 – Gabon U23 0-1 Mali U23– Stade Monédan, Sibang
17h00 – Côte d’Ivoire U23 0-0 Zambia U23– Stade Robert Champroux, Abidjan
19h15 – Egypt U23 4-0 Uganda U23– Borg Al Arab Stadium, Alexandria
SUNDAY 19 JULY 2015
15h00 - Zimbabwe U23 v South Africa U23– Rufaro Stadium, Harare
17h00 - Nigeria U23 v Congo U23– Adokie Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt
20h00 - Morocco U23 v Tunisia U23– Stade Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan, Rabat
21h45 – Algeria U23 v Sierra Leone U23– Stade Mustapha Tchaker, Blida
Press Ctrl+F5 to refresh
21h04 - This is over in Alexandria where Egypt cruised to a 4-0 victory over Uganda to boost their chances for a spot at the final tournament.
21h03-GOAL-Mahmoud Kahraba scores his second of the evening. Egypt U23 4-0 Uganda U23.
20h52-GOAL- Ahly's starlet Ramadan Sobhy adds to the Kobs misery with a superb solo effort. Egypt U23 3-0 Uganda U23.
20h46-Islam Saleh comes in for Mohamed Fathi for Egypt.
20h42- The Egyptians keep pushing with Ahmed Refaat denied by the Ugandan keeper.
20h40-GOAL-Mahmoud Kahraba doubles the young Pharaohs lead with a stunning strike. Egypt U23 2-0 Uganda U23.
20h35- What a chance for Mahmoud Hassan 'Trezeguet', perfectly set by Saleh Gomaa. However, it is still 1-0 for Egypt.
20h32-Mahmoud Kahraba's effort from range flies over the crossbar.
20h21- Good save from Egypt's keeper Mosad Awad as Farouk Miya takes his chance.
20h18- The second half has kicked off at Borg Al Arab Stadium.
20h02- It is half time in Alexandria where the young Pharaohs are one goal up.
19h44- The locals are dominating and came very close to adding number two.
19h24- Assist by Mohamed Gomaa.
19h23-GOAL-Mohamed Salem puts Egypt ahead with a successful header. Egypt U23 1-0 Uganda U23.
19h15- We are underway at Borg Al Arab Stadium in Alexandria between the young Pharaohs and the Uganda Kobs.
19h10- Here are the starting lineups:
Egypt: M. Awad; M. Hany, R. Nabil, R. Rabia, M. Gomaa; S. Gomaa, M. Fathi, M. Trezeguet, R. Sobhy, M. Kahraba; M. Salem.
Uganda: Salim Jamal, Deus Bukenya, Brian Ochwo, Shafiq Bakaki, Richard Kasagga, Taddeo Lwanga, Ibrahim Kiyemba, Kezironi Kizito, Farouk Miya, Yunus Sentamu, Fahad Muhammed Hassan.
19h05- We are 10 minutes away from kick-off in Alexandria, where Egypt host Uganda.
18h50- Game over at Stade Robert Champroux where 10-man Zambia held Cote d'Ivoire to a goalless draw. Cote d'Ivoire U23 0-0 Zambia U23
18h31- Full time in Libreville where visitors Mali enjoyed a 1-0 win over Gabon. Gabon U23 0-1 Mali U23
18h30- Zambia are down to 10 men in Abidjan with Boyd Mkandawi rereceiving his marching orders in 64th minute.
18h16- We are still goalless in Abidjan on the hour mark.
18h10-GOAL-Adame Niane breaks the deadlock in Libreville for Mali from a free-kick.
18h03- The second half is underway at Stade Robert Champroux.
17h48- It is half time in Abidjan, where Elephants and Chipolopolo are still 0-0.
17h05-Zambia lineup:Toaster Nsabata, Boyd Mkandawire, Benedict Chepeshi, Kapota Kayawe, Benson Sakala, Shadreck Malambo, Mukuka Mulenga, Jackson Chirwa, Ronald Kampamba, Patson Daka, Kelvin Mubanga.
17h00- Cote d'Ivoire v Zambia has kicked off in Abidjan.
16h45-Mali lineup:Djigui Diarra, Mamadou Doumbia, Idrissa Sogodogo, Boubacar Diarra, Diadie Samassekou, Adama Niane, Adama Traore, Souleymane Coulibaly, Aboubakar Doumbia, Youssouf Traore, Mohamed Traore.
16h30- We are underway in Libreville at Stade de l'Amitie, where the clash between Gabon and Mali has been relocated.
16h15- We are 15 mn away from kick-off in Sibang, where U-23 defending champions Gabon are hosting Mali.
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africanfootball.com/news/551115/CAF-U-23-Championship-qualifiers-Saturday-18-July-As-it-happened

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NIGERIA VS CONGO: Rivers State LOC Secures Security
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Chairman of the local organizing committee for Sunday’s 2016 Olympic Games qualifier between Nigeria and Congo Republic in Port Harcourt, Honorable Boma Iyaye has assured fans of maximum security at Adokie Amiesimaka Stadium.
Iyaye gave the assurance at a press briefing in Part Harcourt, during which he assured that Rivers State government is determined to ensure a memorable match with drama, passion and wonderful atmosphere that could be obtained anywhere in the world.
He explained that adequate security and logistic have been put in place for a hitch-free match while calling on all football fans to come out en masse to cheer the dream team to victory.
The Chairman reiterated determination of the administration of Governor Nyesom Wike towards sports, adding that, the governor is determined to re-launch Rivers State on the map of sports development in Nigeria.
The match which is billed to be played at the Adokiye Amiesimaka stadium on Sunday, 19 July will not attract any fees from spectators as the gate will be thrown open from 11:00 am on match day.
Iyaye explained that there will be free transportation at designated points in the city to convey fans on Sunday.
He thanked the Governor for the support given to the local organizing committee to ensure that there is adequate arrangement.
The members of the local organizing committee comprises seasoned sports administrator including Chief Adokiye Amesimaka, Sir Opunabo Inko-Tariah, Mercy Akide Udoh, Eddy Mark, Chrisyopher Green, Honour Sirawoo and Albert Chinwo.
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sportsdayonline.com/nigeria-vs-congo-rivers-state-loc-secures-security/

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Siasia, Leroy Exchange Boasts
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Nigeria’s under-23 national team coach, Samson Yebowei Siasia and the handler of Congo Republic’s team, Claude Leroy are both exchanging heated boasts ahead of their clash in Sunday’s Rio 2016 Olympics qualifier scheduled for Adokie Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt.
While Siasia says his lads will be all out to rain goals on their visitors in The Garden City, Leroy wants to repeat the damage his senior side did in handing a shock 3-2 defeat against the Super Eagles during an AFCON 2015 qualifier played in Calabar.
It was the first home loss suffered by Nigeria against an African team in a very long while and ultimately denied the Eagles a place at Equatorial Guinea 2015, despite being winners of the previous edition, South Africa 2013.
Now, Leroy is seeking a repeat and the consistently successful 67-year-old Frenchman hopes to pull off another shock at under-23 level, to edge Congo closer to Rio de Janeiro and a first ever Olympics football appearance.
Leroy said: “There is no reason why we should fear Nigeria. Congolese football has made tremendous progress recently and we must maintain that improvement.
“We are in an identical position to last year with no one beyond Congo giving us a chance. My team have a huge chance of not only eliminating Nigeria, but qualifying for the Rio Olympics.”
Conversely, Siasia predicted a 4-0 home win for his side on Sunday in the first leg of their CAF U-23 Championship qualifier, with a verdict that his players are geared-up for victory as they take another step towards featuring at next year’s Olympics in Rio, Brazil.
Siasia is talking tough, though he will be without several of his foreign-based call-ups like Musa Mohammed, Kelechi Iheanacho and Moses Simon, but Turkey-based forward Umar Aminu, Taiwo Awoniyi and Godwin Saviour will be available for selection.
The effective combination of Awoniyi and Saviour was evident at last month’s FIFA U20 World Cup in New Zealand after they had also combined to eliminate Zambia in a 2015 All Africa Games qualifier, thereby giving Sia1 cause for the cause he is exuding.
“We have been preparing hard for the game and I am sure we are going to win the game convincingly, I am looking at us getting like a 4-0 win, but victory is what we will play for.
“We are making efforts to get their match tapes to know them better. The boys are in high spirit and ready for the task,” said the former Flying Eagles and ex-Super Eagles coach.
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sportsdayonline.com/siasia-leroy-exchange-boasts/

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DREAM TEAM VS RED DEVILS: It’s time for revenge, Etebo roars
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Nigeria’s Under-23s will be gunning for a big win against Congo in today’s 2016 Olympic men’s football qualifying game.
To successfully accomplish that task, Samson Siasia will be banking on forwards Taiwo Awoniyi, Junior Ayaji and Oghenekaro Etebo.
Etebo sat down with supersport.com to discuss the challenge of putting Congo to the sword as well as the more unconventional things about his life.
What are Nigeria’s chances of racking up a big win against Congo?
It will be a good game and for me, I have a personal score to settle. The club I play for, Warri Wolves, were knocked out of the CAF Confederaion Cup by a Congolese club (AC Leopard). So, this is a chance for revenge.
What is your favourite food?
Rice, beans, plantain and chicken.
Your happiest memory in football?
That would be my first league game with Warri Wolves at home. It was against El-Kanemi Warriors and I scored a hat-trick.
And the worst?
Losing the Federation Cup final to Enyimba with Warri Wolves on penalties in 2013 made me cry like a baby.
Who is your best friend in football?
That will be my teammate at Wolves, Michael Uremu Egbeta. We have been friends even before we both joined the club and it has continued till this moment.
Who is your best-dressed teammate?
Daniel Akpeyi, our goalkeeper. He’s a very trendy guy.
And the worst?
Freedom Omoforman. He will kill me for this (chuckles).
Who is the best coach you have ever worked with?
Solomon Ogbeide. He’s the coach who spotted me when I didn’t even believe in myself.
Tell us about the best goal you ever scored.
That was a goal I scored against Sunshine Stars at the Warri City Stadium. I received a lofted pass from midfield and smashed it home with my left foot. It was a truly great goal.
Who is the most difficult opponent you have ever faced?
Enugu Rangers’ Senegalese defender Pierre Coly. He’s as hard as nails.
What would you do if you received a gift of a million dollars?
That’s a great question. I will invest a large chunk of that money but I will also help the poor and needy in society.
Your favourite football club?
In Nigeria Warri Wolves and in Europe FC Barcelona.
Who is that one female celebrity you would want to date?
If I say my girlfriend will kill me (laughs).
Your favourite colour?
White.
Your favourite car?
I don’t really have one, but it has to be black.
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thenationonlineng.net/dream-team-vs-red-devils-its-time-for-revenge-etebo-roars/

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Wike buys 40,000 tickets for fans
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•Wike

Rivers State governor, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has paid for the 40,000 thousand tickets available for today’s match between Nigeria’s Under-23 team and that of Congo.
The 40,000-seater Adokiye Amiesemaka Stadium situated in Omagwa in Port Harcourt will be throw open for all fans .
Wike made this disclosure yesterday while playing host to the National Executive Members of The Sports Writers Association of Nigeria in Port Harcourt.
He called on fans in Port Harcourt and its environs to come out in their numbers and cheer Nigeria’s Dream Team VI to victory
“Now, we will give our support and all the necessary arrangements for the success of this game, it behoves on coach Samson Siasia to go down deep in his soccer armoury to select the best legs that will reciprocate the kind gesture of the state government .
“Our kind gesture is geared towards giving Nigerians and visitors the best of traditional Rivers State hospitality .
“Our state has graciously paid for the tickets and as such , fans will enter the stadium for free ,” Wike said.
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thenationonlineng.net/wike-buys-40000-tickets-for-fans/

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EXCLUSIVE: Liverpool push Monaco for Awoniyi
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AfricanFootball.com can exclusively reveal today that EPL side Liverpool may have jumped ahead of Monaco in the chase for Nigeria’s most sought after young striker Taiwo Awoniyi.
It has specially been gathered that Liverpool are now more likely to snap up the Nigeria U20 and U23 striker and then loan him out of England.
Monaco move ahead of Porto for Awoniyi
At a point in this ever-developing Awoniyi transfer saga, top Portuguese club FC Porto led the chasing pack.
Before the U20 World Cup in New Zealand in June, Awoniyi and his parents had settled for Porto, but a more interesting offer by Monaco meant a final decision on his future would have to wait.
“Liverpool are now the team most likely to sign Awoniyi,” a source informed AfricanFootball.com
“There are concrete offers on the table from the likes of Porto and Monaco, but the player himself said he would now love to join Liverpool.”
However, it is believed that speculations over Awoniyi will soon be a thing of the past when the striker turns 18 on August 12.
His adviser and former Nigeria international Seyi Olofinjana has insisted nothing can be concluded on the youngster’s transfer till when he would have clocked 18.
“He’s still a minor and anything now to do with his transfer would basically have to be a pre-contract agreement until he is 18, which will be in August,” he maintained.
Awoniyi’s exploits with the Nigeria U20s, the Flying Eagles, and now the country’s Olympic team have not gone unnoticed as he has sparked off interests across the world – from Turkey to France to Tunisia.
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africanfootball.com/news/551241/EXCLUSIVE-Liverpool-push-Monaco-for-Awoniyi

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Egypt too strong for Uganda
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Egypt cruised to a 4-0 win over Uganda at Borg Al Arab Stadium in Alexandria on Saturday, in the first leg of their 2015 CAF U-23 Championship qualifiers tie.
A brace by Mahmoud Kahraba and goals apiece from Mohamed Salem and Ramadan Sobhy handed the hosts their deserved victory.
The young Pharaohs took an early lead in the eighth minute, when Salem scored from a fine header which came from a pinpoint cross by Mohamed Gomaa.
The locals nearly doubled their lead five minutes later when Salem tried to chip Uganda's keeper, however, his effort went over the bar.
Although Egypt went to the interval upfront by Salem’s goal, it was the visitors who came back knocking when goalkeeper Mosad Awad parried Farouk's effort after the Ugandan striker was sent through on goal.
In the 62nd minute, Gomaa again provided a beautiful pass to Mahmoud Trezeguet, but the latter couldn't capitalise on the chance.
However, it was Mahmoud Kahraba who doubled the young Pharaohs lead with a stunning strike in the 67th minute.
And two minutes later, Ahmed Refaat nearly found the back of the net with a beautiful curler but Uganda's Salim Jamal managed to save but they were quick to respond as they dribbled past Mosad Awad but missed the target.
The hosts widened their lead in the 78th minute as Refaat sent Ramadan Sobhy clear and the Al Ahly’s wonderkid dribbled past a defender and Jamal before slotting the ball for Egypt's 3rd.
Egypt continued to run riot as Uganda were out of sorts with Kahraba netting his brace towards the 90th minute when he dribbled past the keeper and slotted home their fourth ensuring the tie was practically over.
Egypt will be on the road in a fortnight to honour the return leg against Uganda.
Egypt: (1) 4 (Salem 08’, Kahraba 67’ + 89’, Sobhy 76’)
Uganda0)
Egypt: M. Awad; M. Hany, R. Nabil, R. Rabia, M. Gomaa; S. Gomaa, M. Fathi, M. Trezeguet, R. Sobhy, M. Kahraba; M. Salem.
Uganda: Salim Jamal, Deus Bukenya, Brian Ochwo, Shafiq Bakaki, Richard Kasagga, Taddeo Lwanga, Ibrahim Kiyemba, Kezironi Kizito, Farouk Miya, Yunus Sentamu, Fahad Muhammed Hassan.
[/b]
africanfootball.com/news/551217/Egypt-too-strong-for-Uganda

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Zambia deny CIV in Abidjan
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The young Chipolopolo of Zambia managed to come back with a point away to Cote D’Ivoire after playing to a 0-0 draw in their 2015 CAF U-23 Championship at Stade Robert Champroux, in Abidjan.
Although the Zambians finished the match with 10 men after Boyd Makhandawire received his marching orders in the 64th minute after committing a bookable offence for the second time – his first caution was for an infringement while the second one was for delaying the match.
The seven aggregate winners are set to qualify for CAF U23 Championship qualifiers in Senegal, where the top three teams will book their ticket for Rio.
The tournament in Senegal is scheduled to take place from 28 November to 12 December 2015, with the top three teams set to qualify for the 2016 Summer Olympics men’s football tournament.
The Zambians will hope to bag the full three points at home when they host the young Elephants in two weeks-time.
Zambia line-up: Toaster Nsabata, Boyd Mkandawire, Benedict Chepeshi, Kapota Kayawe, Benson Sakala, Shadreck Malambo, Mukuka Mulenga, Jackson Chirwa, Ronald Kampamba, Patson Daka, Kelvin Mubanga.
[/b]
africanfootball.com/news/551186/Zambia-deny-CIV-in-Abidjan

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Mali grab away win in Gabon
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Mali beat Gabon by 1-0 during their 2015 CAF U-23 Championship qualifier tie at Stade de l'Amitie, Libreville in Gabonon Saturday afternoon.
A 78th minute successful free-kick from Adame Niane proved enough for the Malians to secure all three points and take a crucial one-goal lead into the return leg in Bamako in a fortnight, where the Eagles will have the opportunity to avenge their defeat to the Panthers at the same stage of the competition four years ago.
The defending champions will now have to go back to the drawing board and rectify their errors should they wish to defend their title in Senegal, where the final tournament will take place from 28 November to 12 December 2015 with the top three teams set to qualify for the 2016 Summer Olympics men's football tournament.

africanfootball.com/news/551178/Mali-grab-away-win-in-Gabon

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Dream Team face Rwanda Saturday
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Nigeria’s Dream Team VI will take on Rwanda in a friendly fixed for Kigali on Saturday, July 25, as part of their preparations for a CAF U23 Championship return leg qualifier against Congo.
Nigeria hosted Congo on Sunday in the first leg U23 Championship qualifier, while the second leg is fixed for August 2 in Pointe-Noire.
The overall winners of this match-up will advance to the CAF U23 Championship in Senegal in December, which will serve as the qualifying tournament for the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Rwanda have already called up a 26-man squad for the friendly against Nigeria’s Olympic team.
They also plan to use this match to prepare for next year’s CHAN, which they will host from January 16.

africanfootball.com//news/551274/Dream-Team-face-Rwanda-Saturday

adegwurulez:
There is a big difference between talking hard and talking too much, siasia is just talking too much. At the end of the day, the pressure would be on the strikers to make good of his loud mouth. 4-0 against an experienced congolese side coached by a veteran coach with vast african experience? The pressure from the fans is already too much, sia1 should quit adding to it.

Why is it dat everybody just keep talking abt d experience of d congolese coach?
Nobody seems to remember dis is d same siasia dat got to d final of d Olympics in 2008!!!..
by d way wat has d claude le roy guy won for congo with all his experience?... just because he beat Keshi in calabar.... we also forgot that keshi beat him 2 nil in d return leg.
All dis shout of experienced coach is baseless abeg

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Big match feature:Nigeria vs Congo U-23
By: Iwedi Ojinmah
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Siasia's Dream Team VI say they are fully prepared for victory as they take another step towards featuring at next year’s Olympics in Rio.
Even their coach, who will be without several of his foreign-based call-ups like Musa Mohammed, Kelechi Iheanacho and Moses Simon, is talking tough ahead of the Olympic qualifier against the Congo in Port Harcourt today.
Though because of his amazing 4-0 nil win prediction and tough because he is facing Nigeria’s old nemesis Claude LeRoy. "We have been preparing hard for the game and I am sure we are going to win the game convincingly, I am looking at us getting like a 4-0 win, but victory is what we will play for,” said coach Siasia.

https://footballlive.ng/footballnews/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Dream-Team-players-in-training.jpg
The Dream Team VI

So Nigeria is ready and just as the atmosphere is electric in the Rivers State Capital, the mood is confident. The Adokiye Amiesieamaka Stadium is in fresh paint and its lawn perfectly trimmed. Even the new Governor Ezenwo Nyesom Wike has chipped in to the fray by promising each player a whopping USD 3K per goal and another blizzard of Naira if they win by four.
Game time is 17.00 (CAT) or 16.00 local on SuperSport while there will bea LIVE BLOG and TEXT coverage here on supersport.com
It is expected to rain.
[/b]
mobi.supersport.com/football/nigeria/news/150719/Big_match_featureNigeria_vs_Congo_U23

Hanibal:
Why is it dat everybody just keep talking abt d experience of d congolese coach?
Nobody seems to remember dis is d same siasia dat got to d final of d Olympics in 2008!!!..
by d way wat has d claude le roy guy won for congo with all his experience?... just because he beat Keshi in calabar.... we also forgot that keshi beat him 2 nil in d return leg.
All dis shout of experienced coach is baseless abeg

Le roy has worked in Ac milan and PSG but thats not what we are interested in. In Africa, he's been coaching since the 80s, leading cameroon to Afcon victory against Nigeria in our home soil. He also coached Ghana, taking them to their highest ever fifa ranking. He coached senegal, Dr congo, Congo. Many even believe Herve Renards was a protege of his. Nobody is saying Congo will win Nigeria, all we're saying is, give the man some respect. This same team eliminated Ghana.

Hanibal:
Why is it dat everybody just keep talking abt d experience of d congolese coach?
Nobody seems to remember dis is d same siasia dat got to d final of d Olympics in 2008!!!..
by d way wat has d claude le roy guy won for congo with all his experience?... just because he beat Keshi in calabar.... we also forgot that keshi beat him 2 nil in d return leg.
All dis shout of experienced coach is baseless abeg

I now climb to buy into the wings of your faith.

Nigeria U23 VS Congo B. U23 live on AIt on sunday 19 @4pm
Nigeria Time.
www.nairaland.com/419577/fta-live-football-matches-announcement/510

adegwurulez:
Le roy has worked in Ac milan and PSG but thats not what we are interested in. In Africa, he's been coaching since the 80s, leading cameroon to Afcon victory against Nigeria in our home soil. He also coached Ghana, taking them to their highest ever fifa ranking. He coached senegal, Dr congo, Congo. Many even believe Herve Renards was a protege of his. Nobody is saying Congo will win Nigeria, all we're saying is, give the man some respect. This same team eliminated Ghana.

Yes sire.... thanks for educating me, I didnt know those details o
Twale boss.
I get your point

Governor Wike is doing all he can to help the Nigerian cause Hopefully, the stadium will be filled up.
But I'm surprised that the venue is that big:a 40,000 capacity arena. It should be the biggest stadia in the SS and SE combined, and 10k less seats than the abandoned National stadium in Lagos.

Anyway, good luck to the Dream Team.

terzurum5:
Nigeria U23 VS Congo B. U23 live on AIt on sunday 19 @4pm
Nigeria Time.
www.nairaland.com/419577/fta-live-football-matches-announcement/510

I hope this includes AIT on DSTV?

Hanibal:
Why is it dat everybody just keep talking abt d experience of d congolese coach?
Nobody seems to remember dis is d same siasia dat got to d final of d Olympics in 2008!!!..
by d way wat has d claude le roy guy won for congo with all his experience?... just because he beat Keshi in calabar.... we also forgot that keshi beat him 2 nil in d return leg.
All dis shout of experienced coach is baseless abeg

I dnt doubt Siasia's abilities but the abilities of the players he has selected.

In that 2008 u mentioned he had quality players like Taye Taiwo, Mikel Obi, Obinna Nsofor,Victor Anichebe, Chinedu Ogbuke-Obasi all of which were already senior team regulars both at club level and Super Eagles. That same quality is lacking in this team.

Nigeria Starting Line-up : Emmanuel; Oduduwa, Obanor, Atanda and Usman; Amuzie, Etebor and Okechukwu; Saviour, Ajayi and Daniel.

casket:
Nigeria Starting Line-up : Emmanuel; Oduduwa, Obanor, Atanda and Usman; Amuzie, Etebor and Okechukwu; Saviour, Ajayi and Daniel.

Na wa o. I wish Nigeria Good Luck.