Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. - Sports (79) - Nairaland
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| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 5:15am On Dec 18, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Obafemi Martins Named Seattle Sounders Most Outstanding Player [/size] https://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/football_pics/56231Martins.jpg Obafemi Martins has been named the Most Outstanding Player in the ranks of Seattle Sounders in the 2015 season. The official website of Major League Soccer is on the same page as Seattle Sounders, who had selected the Nigeria international as the Most Valuable Player in the just concluded season, prior to Wednesday’sannouncement. “Named club MVP for 2015, and it’s hard for us to argue with that pick, ” the editors of mlssoccer.com said. When fully fit, Martins was consistent in the Seattle Sounders line - up in 2015 and scored 15 goals in 24 appearances in the MLS. His impressive displays in the American top - flight did not go unnoticed, with Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh handing him a recall to the national team for the World Cup qualifiers against Swaziland in November. www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=17279 [/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 5:34am On Dec 18, 2015*. Modified: 12:42pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
joseph1013: ….In view of the unsavory situation of some Clubs perpetually owing players’ salaries and allowances in the just concluded League Season, Congress empowered the Executive Committee to enact regulations to protect the welfare of players and officials in the Nigeria League.”NFF must first lead by example. How can they enact laws to protect players and Coaches, when they themselves owe these players and Coaches for several months. 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by joseph1013: 10:57am On Dec 18, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt]Nigeria: NFF Proposes N7.2 Billion Budget for 2016[/size] https://cdn.akamai.thisdaylive.com/0bef99d6-acf5-4e2c-9779-8fa02ba3fcd4/assets/NFF-logo-1007.jpg?maxwidth=400&maxheight=540 Abuja — The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) board has proposed a budget of N7.2 billion for the 2016 year. The board tabled the amount before the football stakeholders at the Annual General Assembly (AGA) held in Abuja on Wednesday. Much of the federation's revenue is expected to be generated via government subventions, local sponsorship, FIFA grants and local competitions. The federal government remains the biggest revenue stream for the 'Glasshouse' with its expected subvention for the forthcoming year put at N6.1 billion. Out of that amount, N5.8 billion is the money proposed to be spent on sporting activities, while N324,795,509 is budgeted for recurrent expenditure. The football campaign by Dream Team VI at the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro will gulp N369 million. The team handled by Samson Siasia recently won the African U-23 Championship in Senegal and will targeting Nigeria's second soccer gold medal since the unmatched feat by their forerunners at Atlanta 1996. The federation has estimated N89 million as the cost of international friendly matches to tune up the team, while another N279 million is set aside for the team during the Olympic football competition proper in Brazil. Sponsorship fees from Globacom, Guinness and other companies, amounting to N792 million will substantially augment the federation's revenue. International football bodies FIFA and CAF will provide as grants $250,000 and $100,000, estimated at N79million while income from the local league will amount to N34.5 million. http://allafrica.com/stories/201512180721.html[/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by TheGoodJoe(m): 2:03pm On Dec 18, 2015*. Modified: 2:32pm On Dec 18, 2015 |
joseph1013:The Federal government remains their biggest revenue stream. When Federal Government wants to talk, they will run to FIFA and scream interference. When it is time to share budget, they will tuck their tails in between their legs and stretch out their hands. 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by joseph1013: 2:29pm On Dec 18, 2015 |
TheGoodJoe:Funny, right? How can you pay the piper, and yet not be able to dictate the tune? The Federal government is really trying. Operating a lose-win situation year-in year-out. 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 12:50pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Lawal: New start for Mikel at Chelsea [/size] https://images.365.co.za/2015/7/247x247/1024x534.7096774193549__origin__0x20_John_Obi_Mikel_Chelsea.jpg Former Nigeria international midfielder Garba Lawal says that Jose Mourinho's departure from Chelsea could open the door for a return to action for midfielder John Obi Mikel. Mikel has struggled for game time over the last two seasons, having made only two league starts this season, while last season he only began six matches in the Premier League. But with a new coach on the way - widely expected to be Dutchman Guus Hiddink, Lawal has urged Mikel to try and resurrect his career at Stamford Bridge. "I think Mourinho's exit is a chance for Mikel to reinvent his football career. It might be a chance for him to excel at Chelsea. When the new coach comes, a lot of things will change in the club. I believe Mikel's future is bright," he told Punch Nigeria. "Mikel has to wait for the new manager to come in. Every manager has his own philosophy. So Mikel has to wait and see the possibility of becoming more relevant in the team under the new manager," he concluded. www.football411.com/story/0,22162,14340_109498,00.html [/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 12:55pm On Dec 20, 2015*. Modified: 1:16pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[size=14pt] AF Nigeria Nigeria John Ogu looks beyond Toto Cup exit [/size] https://africanfootball.com/bp_images/2015/12/Samm_19_Dec_1.jpg John Ogu (far right) Nigeria international John Ogu has said he has put behind him Hapoel Be'er Sheva exit from the Israeli Toto Cup. The former Academica de Coimbra of Portugal midfielder said it was painful to be out of the Toto Cup but there is still League and Cup to fight for. "It was painful to be out of the Toto Cup, but that's not the end of the world,” he admitted. "We have league and Israeli cup to play for, that's what we are playing for now." Hapoel Be'er Sheva lost to Beitar Jerusalem in the quarterfinals of Toto Cup through penalties. africanfootball.com/news/594984/John-Ogu-looks-beyond-Toto-Cup-exit 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:34pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] AF Nigeria 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers - Africa USA Obafemi Martins bags American citizenship [/size] https://africanfootball.com/bp_images/2015/12/N15JLKA0789w.jpg Obafemi Matins of Nigeria (right) against Swaziland recently Nigeria international Obafemi Martins will no longer count as a foreigner for Seattle Sounders as he has been listed as an American following the issuance of a Green Card to the ex-Inter Milan forward. Nigeria allows for dual citizenship and this is also good news for Seattle Sounders, who could now sign another foreign player in place of Martins. Obafemi Martins obtained the Green Card at some point this year and this was confirmed when the Major League Soccer (MLS) released the roster update for all the 20 MLS teams and listed Martins as a home player. Sounders may benefit more in cases like that of ‘Oba’ as Jamaicans, Oniel Fisher and Damion Lowe, who have spent several years as students and professionals in the US could obtain Green Cards soon. MLS clubs are allowed to have eight foreign nationals. africanfootball.com/news/594959/Obafemi-Martins-bags-American-citizenship [/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:37pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] AF Nigeria Premier League 2015/2016 Watford Watford boss rules out Ighalo exit in January [/size] https://africanfootball.com/bp_images/2015/12/Odion_Ighalo_Aston_Villa_v_.jpg Ighalo scores against Aston Villa Watford manager Quique Sanchez Flores has said he does not expect Nigeria international Odion Ighalo and strike partner Troy Deeney to leave the club in January. The former Nigeria U20 captain has netted 10 goals in the EPL, while Deeney has scored five goals. "With Ighalo and Deeney, my expectation for sure is we are going to keep them," Flores declared. "From the meetings I have had with the owners, we have not talked about the possibility of these players leaving in the middle of the season." Before the start of the season, Ighalo, 26, turned down a “crazy” offer to move to China. Watford, who are seventh on the table on their return to the English top flight, host Liverpool on Sunday in continuation of the EPL. africanfootball.com//news/595000/Watford-boss-rules-out-Ighalo-exit-in-January [/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:38pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Emem Eduok risks loan move after nightclub episode [/size] https://africanfootball.com/bp_images/2015/12/Samm_29_March_2_580x473.jpg Emem Eduok in action for Tunisian club Esperance Nigeria international Emem Eduok is now in danger of being sent out on loan by Tunisian club Esperance after a highly publicised nightclub episode involving the forward and a female companion. It was reported that Esperance were far from impressed with the negative fallout from the episode as it has affected the club’s public image and so they plan to sanction the striker by shipping him out on loan. “It’s not great times for Emem in Tunisia after the nightclub incident involving him and he is now most likely to be sent out on loan as a result,” a top source informed. The Tunisian transfer window has reopened this weekend and the former Dolphins star may soon know where he will go on loan to. Emem’s troubles are in stark contrast to the emergence of former Flying Eagles star Bernard Bulbwa as one of the top stars of ‘The Blood and Gold’. “Bulbwa is not just a regular for Esperance, he is also one of their top stars after a rather slow start in Tunisia,” another source reported. africanfootball.com/news/594998/Emem-Eduok-risks-loan-move-after-nightclub-episode [/b] |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:47pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] AF Nigeria Nigeria Premier League 2015 Tunisia Sokari's CS Sfaxien debut now to wait [/size] https://africanfootball.com/bp_images/2015/12/Samm_19_November_580x473.jpg Enyimba star Kingsley 'Bobby' Sokari by Samm Audu Nigeria international Kingsley Sokari will not debut for new Tunisian club CS Sfaxien today after the payment of his transfer fee to Enyimba did not go through as expected. Sokari was looking forward to debuting for CSS at Etoile du Sahel today after his International Transfer Certificate (ITC) would have come through on Saturday, when the transfer window in Tunisia has opened. However, the Tunisian club could not complete all the processes needed for the payment of the transfer fee to the player’s Nigerian club Enyimba. “We believe this will be completed in the new week and then he could be registered by his new club,” disclosed his representative, Vincent Alumona. Sokari has signed a three and half year contract with CSS after a move to local rivals Esperance crashed at the last minute earlier this year. africanfootball.com//news/595317/Sokaris-CS-Sfaxien-debut-now-to-wait [/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:54pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Home Eagles Held By Amateur Side In Friendly [/size] https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/CHAN-super-eagles.jpg By Adeboye Amosu: The home-based Super Eagles played out a goalless draw against a local side, FC Babayaro, in a test game Saturday in Abuja, Comple tesportsnigeria.com can report. It was the first tune up game for the Eagles after they started preparations for the Africa Nations Championship in Rwanda on Monday. It was a competitive game as both sides showed determination to win the tie, but failed to register a goal at the end of 90 minutes. The Eagles are expected to leave for a pre-tournament camping exercise in Pretoria, South Africa on January 3. Sunday Oliseh’s charges have a friendly lined up against Cote d’lvoire on January 9. They will open their account at the competition that will be staged in Rwanda from January 16 to February 7, against Niger on January 18. www.completesportsnigeria.com/35698-2/ [/b] |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 1:59pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Ighalo Speaks On Deeney Partnership, Mum’s Backing, Being A Man United Fan [/size] [img]http://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ighalos-late-winner-sinks-blackburn/[/img] Nigeria and Watford striker Odion Ighalo has declared that he owes everything he has achieved to the encouragement he got from his mother while trying to find his feet as a young footballers in the dusty fields of the seedy Ajegunle, Lagos. The deeply religious forward, who has scored 26 goals in 2015, also attributes his success to God 10 of them in the Premier League this season, making him the top scorer across the whole of English football in 2015. “I thank God for the great year and successful season I’m having but I’m still the same me,” Ighalo told The Guardian.. “It’s just the goals that have changed. My life, my training, my work, is still the same and I just want to keep going and giving my best for Watford. “After the Championship I did believe I’d score goals in the Premier League – but not the way it is going now because I know the Premier League is more difficult. But I put in a lot of hard work during pre-season and maybe God said it’s my time.” Ighalo has formed a potent partnership with Troy Deeney. The pair scored 41 goals between them during the 2014-15 campaign, with Ighalo assisting Deeney on two occasions and the 27-year-old returning the favour three times. This season they have scored 15 goals between them, with five assists for each other – one by Ighalo, four by Deeney – already racked up. In an era where front-twos have become a dying breed, it is a wonderful throwback to see Watford’s so in tune. “Since last season we have been working every day in training and playing games together, so it’s normal,” Ighalo said of their excellent partnership. “Troy doesn’t watch any more where I am going to run, he just plays the ball into space and knows I will be there. And I don’t watch him, I just pass and I know he’ll be there. We have that connection and it’s working very well.” Ighalo describes Deeney as a nice guy and praise also follows for Quique Sánchez Flores, who, having become Watford’s fifth manager in a little under two years in June, has done a sensational job of guiding them to seventh in their return to the top flight. “Quique Sánchez Flores doesn’t talk much but he’s very intelligent,” says Ighalo. “It was not easy when he came and he was telling us to do this and that but now we’re enjoying our football and giving teams problems – that is what he has put in place. “For every team we play he has a different approach and whether we win, draw or lose he will call us together afterwards and say: ‘Thank you for your effort. You guys are making me proud.’ This is something I have not seen before and as a player it gives you a lot of belief in your manager.” Ighalo goes on to decsribe a tough childhood in Ajegunle, where the support of his parents – Paul and Martina – saw him and his five siblings through. “If I talk about everything I went through we will sit here for 10 hours,” he said. “It was difficult to live, difficult to eat and that is why I thank God when I look where I am now. “We didn’t always have what we wanted or needed, we had to struggle. That is why I also thank God for my mum – she is the one who worked hard to pay for my first football boots. My dad wanted me to go to school and study, and when I would not do my homework he would spank me. My mum would then quarrel with him and say: ‘You have to leave this boy alone and let him play football.’ So she has always encouraged me.” Ighalo’s contract with Watford runs until June 2020 but club officials would perhaps be wise to offer him fresh terms quickly, while over at Old Trafford, where the need to bring in a forward grows by the day, they may be interested to hear who the Premier League’s third-highest scorer idolised as a child. “I liked watching Dwight Yorke when he was at Man United. I’m a Man United fan.” For now, however, the focus is firmly on Watford and helping them record what would be a fourth successive victory on Sunday. Their opponents can be a difficult proposition, especially away from Anfield, but given his form it is no surprise Ighalo is savouring the challenge. “I’ve played against Man City, Arsenal and Man United but playing against Liverpool will be different because I now have the confidence to face any team and give my best,” he says. “I never think about how many goals I have scored but, yes, everything is going well. Thank God for that.” www.completesportsnigeria.com/ighalo-speaks-on-deeney-partnership-mums-backing-being-a-man-united-fan/ [/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 2:03pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Ujah Fires Blanks In Bremen’s Win; Oboabona, Ambrose Fall [/size] https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Anthony-Ujah-missed-a-38th-minute-penalty-in-Werder-Bremen.jpg By Johnny Edward: Anthony Ujah failed to add to his seven Bundesliga goal tally despite playing all 90 minutes in Werder Bremen's 2-1 loss away to Eintracht Frankfurt on Saturday. The Nigerian has scored ten goals in all competition for the Green Whites. In Scotland, Efe Ambrose was an unused substitute for Celtic who suffered their first home Ladbrokes Premiership defeat of the season as Motherwell came from behind to win 2-1 at Parkhead. Ambrose and his Celtic teammates have now failed to win at home in their last four games, the first time that has happened since Tony Mowbray was manager. They remain a point clear of Aberdeen at the top of the league. At the McDiarmid Park, Juwon Oshaniwa's Hearts battled out the first goalless match between the sides in over 15 years. The game was his 12th of the season. Super Eagles midfielder John Mikel Obi played for 19 minutes in Chelsea's 3-0 win over Sunderland at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. The Nigerian international who is been linked with a January switch away from the club replaced Cesc Fabregas in what was his sixth game of the EPL season totaling 194 minutes of league football. At the Hawthorns Victor Anichebe was a surprise inclusion in West Brom's squad that lost 2-1 home loss to high-riding AFC Bournemouth on Saturday. It was the third straight game they have won after beating Chelsea and Manchester United. Anichebe has starred in only. In Turkey, Godfrey Oboabona saw yellow in action for Rizespor after 27 minutes of action as they lost 2-1 to Gaziantepspor who paraded Gbenga Arokoyo for 60 minutes. www.completesportsnigeria.com/ujah-fires-blanks-in-bremens-win-oboabona-ambrose-fall/ [/b] |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 2:09pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Will Mikel Get More Playing Time At Chelsea Post-Mourinho? [/size] https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/Obi-mikel.jpg By Sulaiman Alao: The sacking of Jose Mourinho as Chelsea coach in midweek and the expected fall-out will constitute the biggest trending news for several weeks to come while the Special One’s departure will no doubt give Nigerian international Mikel Obi some mixed feelings. Mikel has become a bit-part player at the return of the controversial Portguese manager to Stamford Bridge last season. Milkel played 18 league games totalling 693 minutes (and mostly as subsitute) last season when Chelsea won the league title. This season, he featured in only five games totalling 175 minutes (again as substitute mostly) under Mourinho, promting speculation that the Super Eagles star is on his way out of the club. But he added a few minutes on Saturday when he came on for Cesc Fabregas against Sunderland. However, it was Mourinho that facilitated Mikel’s transfer from Norwegian side Lyn Oslo in 2006/07 season and remoulded the player to a defensive midfielder – a role Mikel thrived in during Mourinho’s first stint at Stamford Bridge. With Mourinho’s exit from Chelsea for the second time, will Mikel get more playing time under Guus Hiddink or will he consider a move away from the Stamford Bridge in the near future? Only time will tell. TIT BITS… TIT BITS… Taiye TAIWO – The out of favour Super Eagles defender is still playing active football and currently plies his trade with HJK Helsinki in Finland. The Finland Veikkausliiga season has already ended with 30-year old Taiwo featuring in 11 league games for Helsinki who finished the season in the third position with 58 points after 33 matches. SJK won the league title with 60 points while Rops finished 2nd with 59 points. Victor OBINNA – The 28-year old Nigerian international now plies his trade with Duisburg in the German second tier alongside 29-year old compatriot Kingsley ONUEGBU. Obinna has scored one goal in six matches while Onuegbu has two goals in 17. Both strikers’ goals returns are obviously not enough as Duisburg are currently languishing at the very bottom of the 18-team league table with 11 points. Raheem LAWAL – The Super Eagles midfielder is a regular first team player for Eskiserhirspor in the Tukish Super League. The former Dream Team V star who shone like a million stars at the CAF U-23 Championships in Morocco in 2011 has featured in 11 league games for his club this term but they are currently rooted at the base of the 18-team league table with paltry seven points after 15 games. Sunday MBA – Though he has been neglected by national team selectors, the midfielder who scored the lone goal that saw Nigerian beat Burkina Faso to lift the 2013 African Cup of Nations in South Africa is waxing stronger at Turkish second tier club, Yeni Malatyaspor. The 27-year old currently has three goals to his credit in 15 matches for his club who are currently 11th in the table with 20 points. Nwankwo OBIORA – The combative midfielder remains a key player for his Portuguese club, Academica, who are currently stuggling at the lower rungs of the Primeira Liga table in the 17th position on the 18-team log to be precise. The 24-year old Nigerian international has one goal to his credit in 10 games for Academica. Emmanuel EMENIKE – Having called it quits with international football recently, the power-playing striker is finally rediscovering his goalscoring instincts at UAE where he has become the leading scorer for Al Ain with seven goals to his credit in eight matches. Al Ain currently top the Arabian Gulf League table with 28 points after 11 matches. Sone ALUKO – Having gone down on relegation to the Championship with Hull City last season, the Nigerian international winger is battling to help the Tigers regain promotion to the EPL. The 26-year old currently has one goal to his name in 14 games while Hull City are currently fourth on the league table with 38 points. www.completesportsnigeria.com/will-mikel-get-more-playing-time-at-chelsea-now/ [/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by jotey(m): 3:15pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
ighalo scores again 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by jotey(m): 3:15pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
15 minWatford have a second, and there are no prizes for guessing which duo combined to get it. Deeney's first thought when he gets the ball on the halfway line is to lift it forward for Ighalo, who initially looks to be second favourite in a race against Skrtel. However, he beats the Liverpool defender to the ball,shows good strength to hold him off, and then manages to steer his effort in off the far post beyond the dive of Bogdan. That is some finish from the in-form striker.15 minGOAL! Watford 2-0 Liverpool (Odion Ighalo) 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by jotey(m): 4:17pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
all hail ighalo he destroyed liverpool 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by jotey(m): 4:18pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
85 minIncredible scenes at Vicarage Road asWatfordkill this game off once and for all to seal their first win over Liverpool here since 1986. It is Ighalo again who scores, finishing off a fine team move by planting home a header from close range having been found by Behrami's cross.85 minGOAL! Watford 3-0 Liverpool (Odion Ighalo) 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by jotey(m): 4:20pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
85'Goal Odion Jude IghaloINCREDIBLE! VICARAGE ROAD LEFT DREAMING! Exclamation point for Watford who perfectlyexecute a counter, which sees Behrami pick out the head of Ighalo with a cross and the strikerbounces a header in from six-yards out. He's never going to miss from there in this kind of form! Watford will be one point back of the top four at Christmas - what a story they are writing for themselves. 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Nobody: 4:39pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
it's official.... iIGHALO IS A BEAST. 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by joseph1013: 5:59pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
All hail... King Ighalo! Slayer of the Reds! 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by joseph1013: 6:01pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt]Odion Ighalo praises God and Quique Sánchez Flores for his remarkable year[/size] https://i2.mirror.co.uk/incoming/article6430920.ece/ALTERNATES/s1227b/Watford-vs-Swansea.jpg Tuesday afternoon and Watford’s first-team squad are taking part in a practice match at their London Colney training ground. It is an intense session leading to a blur of bodies, yet it is still possible to notice that someone is missing – Odion Ighalo. Soon the striker is spotted hurrying through the canteen holding a tray full of smoothies. “The physio told me to bring them to the guys in the gym, I was helping him,” he explains as we sit down to conduct this interview, one in which it becomes clear that Ighalo’s generosity of spirit stretches beyond being a juice carrier. The 26-year-old goes on to speak about how he regularly sends a portion of his monthly salary to his family and a number of charities in his native Nigeria, with his desire to help those less fortunate than him formed on the back of an upbringing he describes as having been a “struggle” and that has led to deep humility within a deeply religious man. Over the course of our 30-minute conversation, Ighalo refers to God more than a dozen times – and more often than not in thanks for the life he leads now. In professional terms that has meant goals, goals and even more goals. Ighalo has 26 to his name during this calender year, making him the top scorer across the whole of English football in 2015, with the one he secured for Watford in their 1-0 victory over Sunderland on 12 December taking his tally to 10 in his debut campaign in the Premier League. It is a highly impressive return and reason for Liverpool to fear before their visit to Vicarage Road on Sunday lunchtime. How Quique Sánchez Flores guided Watford up the Premier League table Read more “I thank God for the great year and successful season I’m having but I’m still the same me,” Ighalo insists. “It’s just the goals that have changed. My life, my training, my work, is still the same and I just want to keep going and giving my best for Watford. “After the Championship I did believe I’d score goals in the Premier League – but not the way it is going now because I know the Premier League is more difficult. But I put in a lot of hard work during pre-season and maybe God said it’s my time.” Ighalo joined Watford on loan from Udinese in July 2014 – having also played for Lyn Oslo, Granada and Cesena – with the deal being made permanent three months later. Given his combination of power, pace and sound technique he seemed a natural fit for English football, yet the player initially struggled, scoring only four times in his first 19 appearances for his new team. In the second half of last season Ighalo exploded, however, scoring 16 times in 18 games as Watford soared to automatic promotion from the second tier, with the partnership the Nigerian forged with Troy Deeney key to his and the team’s success. The pair scored 41 goals between them during the 2014-15 campaign, with Ighalo assisting Deeney on two occasions and the 27-year-old returning the favour three times. This season they have scored 15 goals between them, with five assists for each other – one by Ighalo, four by Deeney – already racked up. In an era where front-twos have become a dying breed, it is a wonderful throwback to see Watford’s so in tune. “Since last season we have been working every day in training and playing games together, so it’s normal,” says Ighalo of their excellent partnership. “Troy doesn’t watch any more where I am going to run, he just plays the ball into space and knows I will be there. And I don’t watch him, I just pass and I know he’ll be there. We have that connection and it’s working very well.” Ighalo describes Deeney as a nice guy and praise also follows for Quique Sánchez Flores, who, having become Watford’s fifth manager in a little under two years in June, has done a sensational job of guiding them to seventh in their return to the top flight. Having arrived in Hertfordshire, Sánchez Flores could have decided Ighalo did not fit into his plans; it has been suggested the club were actively looking to sell the player before the start of this season. Indeed, Ighalo recently said he was close to joining the Chinese club Hebei China Fortune after they had a £10m bid accepted by Watford and offered him “crazy money” to move. The striker stayed, though, describing not moving to an “uncompetitive league” as “one of the best decisions I have ever made”, and is flourishing under the Spaniard with the striking beard. “Quique Sánchez Flores doesn’t talk much but he’s very intelligent,” says Ighalo. “It was not easy when he came and he was telling us to do this and that but now we’re enjoying our football and giving teams problems – that is what he has put in place. “For every team we play he has a different approach and whether we win, draw or lose he will call us together afterwards and say: ‘Thank you for your effort. You guys are making me proud.’ This is something I have not seen before and as a player it gives you a lot of belief in your manager.” Ighalo is speaking freely and fluently but that changes when our conversation switches to his childhood. There is a nervous laugh followed by a reluctance to go into detail. “If I talk about everything I went through we will sit here for 10 hours,” he says gravely. Ighalo has spoken previously about how growing up in a ghetto in Ajegunle, a densely populated district in the heart of Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city, regularly led to him and his five siblings, along with his parents, Paul and Martina, going without clean water, food and electricity, and how as an aspiring footballer he had to often play barefooted on a mud-soaked pitch that hosted running battles between drug dealers and the police. Rather optimistically, the locals dubbed it “the Maracanã”. “It was difficult to live, difficult to eat and that is why I thank God when I look where I am now,” Ighalo says, opening up somewhat. “We didn’t always have what we wanted or needed, we had to struggle. That is why I also thank God for my mum – she is the one who worked hard to pay for my first football boots. My dad wanted me to go to school and study, and when I would not do my homework he would spank me. My mum would then quarrel with him and say: ‘You have to leave this boy alone and let him play football.’ So she has always encouraged me.” For Ighalo, the money he sends back to Nigeria is the least he can do and the desire now is to extend his charitable work further. “I’m planning to open an orphanage in Lagos next year,” he says. “I don’t do these things because I want people to praise me. I’ve been doing them before I joined Watford – ever since God started blessing me I have been helping the kids, helping the widows. I’m not a millionaire but I have more than lots of people back home and I want to help them.” For all his generosity, it is possible in Ighalo’s company to also detect personal ambition. Goals put food on his table and those of others but are equally part of a plan to move up the career ladder. When discussing his international career – Ighalo made his debut for Nigeria in March and has gone on to score twice for his country – the striker speaks about how “when you play for your national team you get more recognition”. Earlier, and in the context of his non-move to China, he also spoke about wanting to “progress in his career” and knowing that if he does, “the money will come”. Ighalo’s contract with Watford runs until June 2020 but club officials would perhaps be wise to offer him fresh terms quickly, while over at Old Trafford, where the need to bring in a forward grows by the day, they may be interested to hear who the Premier League’s third-highest scorer idolised as a child. “I liked watching Dwight Yorke when he was at Man United. I’m a Man United fan.” For now, however, the focus is firmly on Watford and helping them record what would be a fourth successive victory on Sunday. Their opponents can be a difficult proposition, especially away from Anfield, but given his form it is no surprise Ighalo is savouring the challenge. “I’ve played against Man City, Arsenal and Man United but playing against Liverpool will be different because I now have the confidence to face any team and give my best,” he says. “I never think about how many goals I have scored but, yes, everything is going well. Thank God for that.” http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/dec/19/odion-ighalo-god-watford-quique-sanchez-flores[/b] 2 Likes |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 9:25pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
joseph1013: The way this Ighalo of a guy keeps banging in goals, Watford may find it difficult to keep him next season. 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 9:31pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[size=14pt] AF Nigeria Nigeria Premier League 2015 Enugu Rangers CHAN Eagles replace ill Rangers defender [/size] CHAN Eagles have replaced Enugu Rangers defender Orji Kalu, who is down with chickenpox, it has been gathered. Kalu, who could play as a rightback or in central defence, is one of 26 players called up by coach Sunday Oliseh for next month’s CHAN in Rwanda, but he has yet to report to the team’s training camp in Abuja on account of the infectious disease that has now sidelined him. It is widely expected that in the new week Oliseh will sanction the drafting of a couple of new players to the squad. The squad are due to travel out to Pretoria, South Africa, for a training camp prior to the CHAN, which kicks off on January 16 in Kigali. africanfootball.com//news/595447/CHAN-Eagles-replace-ill-Rangers-defender |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 9:46pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Ighalo's Brace Sinks Liverpool Biyi Akangbe [/size] https://images.performgroup.com/di/library/goal_uk/b9/37/odion-ighalo-watford_1tuiighsz2fma1pnk7uojhoh67.jpg Nigerian striker Odion Ighalo fired a brace as Watford thrashed Liverpool three nil to earn their fourth win in a row. Nathan Ake added the other as Quique Sanchez Flores’s men won back-to-back home games in the Premier League for the first time. It took just over two minutes for Watford to take the lead and it was a horror show from Liverpool keeper Adam Bogdan, who was making his Reds Premier League debut in place of the injured Simon Mignolet. The Hungarian failed to grasp an inswinging corner in the six-yard box, fumbling the ball and allowing Nathan Ake to poke home. Replays show that Bogdan did manage to get two hands back on the ball, but it was only for a split-second and Ake knocked it out easily. Coutinho warmed the palms of Heurelho Gomes at the other end, but Watford were soon two to the good as the league’s deadliest strike partnership combined once more. Troy Deeney lifted the ball over the top for Odion Ighalo and the Nigerian, after holding off the challenge of Martin Skrtel, found the bottom corner with a pinpoint finish for his 27th league goal in 2015. Bogdan’s confidence was seemingly shot from his earlier error and his hesitant punch almost gifted the hosts another goal as Ighalo just failed to stab home after the ball had ricocheted his way. Shortly before half time Watford went close directly from a corner, but this time Bogdan was alert and clawed Ben Watson’s corner away just before it crossed the line. Liverpool came out fighting at the start of the second period, but they failed to make their pressure pay as Adam Lallana, Alberto Moreno and Divock Origi all failed to beat Heurelho Gomes. Bogdan and Gomes made further saves to deny Ighalo and Jordan Henderson before Watford’s top scorer put the icing on the cake late on. Ighalo was left unmarked and played onside by Mamadou Sakho and left with a simple header from Valon Behrami’s cross for his 12th Premier League goal. Despite the win, Watford remain seventh, but they are now only a point behind Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United and Crystal Palace above them. Liverpool sit ninth, five points behind the European spots. www.soccernet.com.ng/2015/12/ighalos-brace-sinks-liverpool.html [/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 9:56pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Onobi: CHAN Is Home Eagles’ Big Opportunity To Progress [/size] https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/image-5.jpeg By Adeboye Amosu: Home-based Super Eagles midfielder, Paul Onobi believes a positive outing at the African Nations Championship in Rwanda will give more opportunities to the Nigerian league players to stake claims for shirts in the main Super Eagles side, reports Completesportsnigeria.com. Overseas based stars have in recent past dominated the Super Eagles squad with successive coaches preferring them to the home-based players. Current handler of the side, Sunday Oliseh recently started three home-based players in Nigeria's 2018 World Cup qualifying game against Swaziland, with Onobi who plays for Glo Premier League side, Sunshine Stars prefered in midfield ahead of Chelsea star, John Obi Mikel. Onobi who is expected to play a key role for the Eagles who booked their place in the 2016 CHAN after a 2-0 aggregate win against Burkina Faso expected the number to increase especially if they can go far in Rwanda. "Playing in the CHAN is a big opportunity for us to prove what we are capable," Onobi toldComple tesportsnigeria.com. "It was nice to start the game against Swaziland with two of my colleagues in the starting line-up. "Who knows what will happen if we do well in the competition." Samson Siasia's men will start their campaign at the compeition against Nigeria on January 18. www.completesportsnigeria.com/onobi-chan-home-eagles-big-opportunity-progress/ [/b] 1 Like |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 9:59pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Ujah Laments Werder Bremen’s Defeat At Frankfurt [/size] https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ujah-bremen-bundesliga.jpg By James Agberebi: Nigeria striker Anthony Ujah has lamented Werder Bremen’s inability to hold on to their lead following their 2-1 away loss to Eintract Frankfurt in Saturday’s B undesliga clash. Claudio Pizzaro put Bremen ahead in the 29th minute. But just two minutes later, Alexander Meier restored parity for Frankfurt. And in the second half, Stefan Aigner put Frankfurt ahead when he scored in the 48th minute. Reacting to the loss, Ujah told Werder Bremen’s official website that Frankfurt’s equaliser was the turning point. “Unfortunately we weren’t able to defend the lead for longer. It was difficult after they equalised so quickly and then we couldn’t get back into it after the goal early in the second half,” he said. www.completesportsnigeria.com/ujah-laments-werder-bremens-defeat-at-frankfurt/ [/b] |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 10:23pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[size=14pt] Watford Manager: Ighalo Is ‘Biggest Scorer’ This Season [/size] https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/odion-ighalo-1.jpg By Adeboye Amosu: Watford manager, Quique Sanchez Flores, has heaped plaudits on Odion Ighalo after his brace helped the Hornets to a 3-0 win against Liverpool on Sunday, reports Comple tesportsnigeria.com. Ighalo has scored 12 times for Watford this season, netting in their last four league games. Flores also praised his team for their collective effort in recent outings. “Ighalo is the biggest scorer this season. He is always close to the box, always shooting and creating attempts, he deserves it. “But of course it depends on the players, we create like a collective,” Flores told BBC Sport. Watford will next face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Boxing Day. www.completesportsnigeria.com/watford-manager-ighalo-is-biggest-scorer-this-season/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 10:27pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[size=14pt] Kanu Urges Rampant Ighalo To Keep Scoring [/size] https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/image-12.jpeg By James Agberebi: Former Super Eagles skipper Nwankwo Kanu has urged resourceful Watford striker, Odion Ighalo, to keep on his goal scoring form. Ighalo grabbed a brace in the Hornets 3-0 win against Liverpool at Vicarage Road. Ighalo has now scored 12 Premier League goals, just three behind top scorer Jamie Vardy who has 15 goals. Reacting to Ighalo's performance against Liverpool, Kanu described him as a goal machine. "Well done, keep banging the goals, goal machine, God bless you, we are proud of you," Kanu wrote on his twitter handle. The win places Watford seventh in the league table. www.completesportsnigeria.com/kanu-urges-rampant-ighalo-to-keep-scoring/ |
| Re: Super Eagles Of Nigeria Thread: 2017 AFCON Qualifiers. by Orkpekyandega(m): 10:33pm On Dec 20, 2015 |
[b][size=14pt] Oliseh: Ighalo Is Proving His Class [/size] https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/image-9.jpeg By Johnny Edward: Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh is delighted to see Odion Ighalo proving his class in the Barclays English Premier League. Ighalo who scored a brace in Watford's 3-0 win over Liverpool to take his tally to 12 goals in 19 game this season is the highest scoring player in England with 28 goals in the current calendar year. "There's more to Ighalo game than just scoring he's an asset and has proved it. But he can still do more to become a great player," Oliseh told Comple tesportsnigeria.com. Oliseh who joins the Home based squad next year in South Africa for next month's African Nations Cup CHAN in Rwanda is confident of his team's chances in the competition. "The boys are in camp and from what I've heard they are ready to give thir best. On his targets in the competition, Oliseh said: "We will take every game as it comes." www.completesportsnigeria.com/oliseh-%e2%80%8eighalo-is-proving-his-class/ [/b] |
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