₦airaland Forum

The NPFL is like the Nigerian civil service. Yes it’s a Nigerian problem. How can you stand out from the crowd? The environment does not encourage excellence.

BascoVanVeli:
My question remains unchanged, is a professional player who transfers to another league guaranteed to succeed? A quality player can go his career without making impact when you add injury and bad luck.

The problem is you want the whole league to be world beaters but that is unrealistic. Players improve if they want to. The premier league didn't make Ronaldo good and neither did la liga with Messi. If players don't want it you can't blame the league. Do u know how many south Africans have flopped in Europe? Only a handfull didn't.

The fact is that the Nigerian player has not been wanting it enough. They want success but not greatness. Like I said this isn't about the NPFL it is a Nigeria problem. How can you blame the NPFL for a Daniel Etor choosing Oman as hiss definition of success?

Kai. Another Aigbogun

tbaba1234:
He talked about inviting him for under 20.

BascoVanVeli:
I have followed him since 2016 when I knew him as a clumsy 16 year old. It wouldn't be the first time that a website would be wrong about a player's age, unless you are saying they interviewed his mother?

The Article was essentially a profile of the player. It was not a story where his name was mentioned. His age is the basic requirement for anyone writing the profile of the player.

http://owngoalnigeria.com/2016/05/30/emeka-zlatan-umeh-turning-heads-at-kaduna-united/

https://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/07/meet-plateau-utd-forward-emeka-umeh-built-like-zlatan-skillful-like-kanu/

Either ways, it puts significant doubt on the 18 year old claim.

These are 2 articles. Did they make typographical error twice

tbaba1234:
The Article was a essentially a profile of the player. It was not a story where his name was mentioned. His age is the basic requirement for anyone writing the profile of the player.

http://owngoalnigeria.com/2016/05/30/emeka-zlatan-umeh-turning-heads-at-kaduna-united/

https://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/02/07/meet-plateau-utd-forward-emeka-umeh-built-like-zlatan-skillful-like-kanu/

Either ways, it does put significant doubt on the 18 year old claim.

These are 2 articles. Did they make typographical error twice

Did they give birth to him.

Awoniyi needs to get amongst the goals. His replacement came on and got two goals.

tbaba1234:
Awoniyi needs to get amongst the goals. His replacement came on and got two goals.

The same thing happened in Europa League...his replacement came in and scored

gamaliel9:
The same thing happened in Europa League...his replacement came in and scored

He needs to score soon or he will find himself on the bench.

tbaba1234:
In 2016, Owngoalnigeria did an article on Umeh. He was 19 at the time.

In 2018, he is now 18.

Nigeria players? I do not take them serious

True, we can’t rely on OGN alone

BascoVanVeli:
Did they give birth to him.

I have a Belgian dad but my heart is with Eagles — Dessers

Born to a Belgian dad and Nigerian mother, FC Utrecht striker Cyriel Dessers has never hidden his desire to play for the Super Eagles. In this interview with ’TANA AIYEJINA, the 24-year-old talks about his career, parents and his undying love for the Eagles

How are you looking up to the incoming season?

I’m eagerly looking forward to it, I’m really hungry to return to action. I want to show myself, hopefully the coach will give me a chance to show it. I’m confident that if I play, I will develop and score goals. Hopefully the Nigeria Football Federation will notice that too.

This is your second year in the Dutch league. How would you describe the Eredivisie?

The Eredivisie is a league where they want to play beautiful football. There’s always a nice build-up from the defenders, good passing from the midfielders and a lot of dribbles. The football in the Dutch league is beautiful and attractive; you don’t see a lot of long balls or kicking the balls away.

Do you think Utrecht can compete with the big sides Ajax, PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord this season?

Yes, we can compete and win against these top teams during confrontations, like we did last season. But overall during the season there is still a difference. At the end of the season you often see the traditional top three Ajax, PSV and Feyenoord at the top.

Have you had interests from other clubs during the off season?

Yes, there were some clubs actually interested, but at this moment FC Utrecht don’t want to let me go. And I’m committed to giving my best to the club.

The NFF has opened doors to players with Nigerian roots to play for the Super Eagles. Are you still considering playing for Nigeria or would prefer to bid your time for Belgium, where you were born?

It would be a big honour to play for Nigeria and it would be a no-brainer for me. I was born and grew up in Belgium, but when I look in the mirror or to my character, I can see that I’m Nigerian/African. My dream has always been to represent Nigeria, wear the green and white jersey and put smiles on the faces of Nigerians. Hopefully, one day that will happen.

What can you bring to the Eagles if you are invited?

Goals, that’s what I’m good at. There is so much quality in the Nigerian squad, but I hope to get a chance and then show how I can also contribute to the team.

Can you tell us about your connection to Nigeria?

My mother is Nigerian and I still have a lot of family members in Lagos. Nigerians are wonderful people.

How much of Nigeria do you know?

I know the country and what has been going on. I’ve not been there yet, but I want to go there as soon as possible.

You have a Belgian dad but you are so intent on playing for the Eagles. Did your mum convince you?

(Laughs) Not at all, like I said, it would be an honour. This is something I want and I would make both my mum and dad proud by achieving my dream playing for Nigeria.

What was it like having to watch other players at the World Cup on TV?

It was a pleasure to see guys that you’ve played with or played against on such a big stage.

How would you describe Nigeria’s performance at the 2018 World Cup?

They were so close (to advancing from the their group) but were also a little bit unlucky with the hand ball against Argentina. But they played good football, don’t forget that they had one of the toughest groups with Croatia who reached the final and Argentina with Lionel Messi.

No African team made it beyond the group stage. What do you think is the cause?

Like I said previously, some teams were close like Nigeria and Senegal as well, but sometimes you will need a little bit of luck. Africa is coming, no doubt.

What’s your impression about Nigerian players?

I see a lot of Nigerian players all over Europe, also in big clubs and big competitions, and I think that’s a really positive sign. That means clubs and people appreciate their talents and work ethics.

Who’s your role model Nigerian footballer?

I think that must be (Nwankwo) Kanu, he is a true legend and was world-class during his playing days. He was always a delight to watch, an inspirational personality. But when I was young, (Obafemi) Martins was also rising and I used to buy him on FIFA on the play station every time.

What was your childhood like?

That’s a funny story. As a kid I also dreamt about being a football player, but my parents always told me that school was way more important. So I did very good at school and was playing at amateur level until I was 16 years. I even went to university to study Law for two years, before I became a professional footballer. What I learnt from my parents was not to waste my talents and work hard at school and in football.

As a striker, what are your goals targets for the incoming season?

It’s dangerous to put a number on it, but last year I had 12 goals and five assists in 20 starting games, so I hope to do better this season.

Can you remember any crazy thing you once did on the pitch?

The craziest thing I’ve done was scoring a hat-trick in the final of the play-offs for promotion with NAC Breda last year.

Which defender has given you the toughest time?

That must be Matthijs de Ligt from Ajax. He is so strong, fast and mature for his young age. No wonder he has attracted interest from Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Juventus. Zenit Saint Petersburg’s Branislav Ivanovic, formerly of Chelsea, is also very good; he can read the game very well with his experience.

Who is Cyriel Dessers?

This is a difficult one. Cyriel Dessers is a young man who wants to see the world, learn a lot from other people and places and enjoy my life as a football player, because it is a dream and a privilege. I have some dreams and goals and one of them is to become a Super Eagle one day.

https://punchng.com/i-have-a-belgian-dad-but-my-heart-is-with-eagles-dessers/

SM7


Waiting for it to stick.


Levante was a fertile ground for powerful Obagoal. I believe a younger SM7 would take there by storm as well.

tbaba1234:
I have a Belgian dad but my heart is with Eagles — Dessers

Born to a Belgian dad and Nigerian mother, FC Utrecht striker Cyriel Dessers has never hidden his desire to play for the Super Eagles. In this interview with ’TANA AIYEJINA, the 24-year-old talks about his career, parents and his undying love for the Eagles

How are you looking up to the incoming season?

I’m eagerly looking forward to it, I’m really hungry to return to action. I want to show myself, hopefully the coach will give me a chance to show it. I’m confident that if I play, I will develop and score goals. Hopefully the Nigeria Football Federation will notice that too.

This is your second year in the Dutch league. How would you describe the Eredivisie?

The Eredivisie is a league where they want to play beautiful football. There’s always a nice build-up from the defenders, good passing from the midfielders and a lot of dribbles. The football in the Dutch league is beautiful and attractive; you don’t see a lot of long balls or kicking the balls away.

Do you think Utrecht can compete with the big sides Ajax, PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord this season?

Yes, we can compete and win against these top teams during confrontations, like we did last season. But overall during the season there is still a difference. At the end of the season you often see the traditional top three Ajax, PSV and Feyenoord at the top.

Have you had interests from other clubs during the off season?

Yes, there were some clubs actually interested, but at this moment FC Utrecht don’t want to let me go. And I’m committed to giving my best to the club.

The NFF has opened doors to players with Nigerian roots to play for the Super Eagles. Are you still considering playing for Nigeria or would prefer to bid your time for Belgium, where you were born?

It would be a big honour to play for Nigeria and it would be a no-brainer for me. I was born and grew up in Belgium, but when I look in the mirror or to my character, I can see that I’m Nigerian/African. My dream has always been to represent Nigeria, wear the green and white jersey and put smiles on the faces of Nigerians. Hopefully, one day that will happen.

What can you bring to the Eagles if you are invited?

Goals, that’s what I’m good at. There is so much quality in the Nigerian squad, but I hope to get a chance and then show how I can also contribute to the team.

Can you tell us about your connection to Nigeria?

My mother is Nigerian and I still have a lot of family members in Lagos. Nigerians are wonderful people.

How much of Nigeria do you know?

I know the country and what has been going on. I’ve not been there yet, but I want to go there as soon as possible.

You have a Belgian dad but you are so intent on playing for the Eagles. Did your mum convince you?

(Laughs) Not at all, like I said, it would be an honour. This is something I want and I would make both my mum and dad proud by achieving my dream playing for Nigeria.

What was it like having to watch other players at the World Cup on TV?

It was a pleasure to see guys that you’ve played with or played against on such a big stage.

How would you describe Nigeria’s performance at the 2018 World Cup?

They were so close (to advancing from the their group) but were also a little bit unlucky with the hand ball against Argentina. But they played good football, don’t forget that they had one of the toughest groups with Croatia who reached the final and Argentina with Lionel Messi.

No African team made it beyond the group stage. What do you think is the cause?

Like I said previously, some teams were close like Nigeria and Senegal as well, but sometimes you will need a little bit of luck. Africa is coming, no doubt.

What’s your impression about Nigerian players?

I see a lot of Nigerian players all over Europe, also in big clubs and big competitions, and I think that’s a really positive sign. That means clubs and people appreciate their talents and work ethics.

Who’s your role model Nigerian footballer?

I think that must be (Nwankwo) Kanu, he is a true legend and was world-class during his playing days. He was always a delight to watch, an inspirational personality. But when I was young, (Obafemi) Martins was also rising and I used to buy him on FIFA on the play station every time.

What was your childhood like?

That’s a funny story. As a kid I also dreamt about being a football player, but my parents always told me that school was way more important. So I did very good at school and was playing at amateur level until I was 16 years. I even went to university to study Law for two years, before I became a professional footballer. What I learnt from my parents was not to waste my talents and work hard at school and in football.

As a striker, what are your goals targets for the incoming season?

It’s dangerous to put a number on it, but last year I had 12 goals and five assists in 20 starting games, so I hope to do better this season.

Can you remember any crazy thing you once did on the pitch?

The craziest thing I’ve done was scoring a hat-trick in the final of the play-offs for promotion with NAC Breda last year.

Which defender has given you the toughest time?

That must be Matthijs de Ligt from Ajax. He is so strong, fast and mature for his young age. No wonder he has attracted interest from Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Juventus. Zenit Saint Petersburg’s Branislav Ivanovic, formerly of Chelsea, is also very good; he can read the game very well with his experience.

Who is Cyriel Dessers?

This is a difficult one. Cyriel Dessers is a young man who wants to see the world, learn a lot from other people and places and enjoy my life as a football player, because it is a dream and a privilege. I have some dreams and goals and one of them is to become a Super Eagle one day.

https://punchng.com/i-have-a-belgian-dad-but-my-heart-is-with-eagles-dessers/

After AFCON qualifiers, we should book a friendly and allow these dudes to showcase their skills. Their work ethic and passion cannot go unnoticed.

tbaba1234:
I have a Belgian dad but my heart is with Eagles — Dessers

Born to a Belgian dad and Nigerian mother, FC Utrecht striker Cyriel Dessers has never hidden his desire to play for the Super Eagles. In this interview with ’TANA AIYEJINA, the 24-year-old talks about his career, parents and his undying love for the Eagles

How are you looking up to the incoming season?

I’m eagerly looking forward to it, I’m really hungry to return to action. I want to show myself, hopefully the coach will give me a chance to show it. I’m confident that if I play, I will develop and score goals. Hopefully the Nigeria Football Federation will notice that too.

This is your second year in the Dutch league. How would you describe the Eredivisie?

The Eredivisie is a league where they want to play beautiful football. There’s always a nice build-up from the defenders, good passing from the midfielders and a lot of dribbles. The football in the Dutch league is beautiful and attractive; you don’t see a lot of long balls or kicking the balls away.

Do you think Utrecht can compete with the big sides Ajax, PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord this season?

Yes, we can compete and win against these top teams during confrontations, like we did last season. But overall during the season there is still a difference. At the end of the season you often see the traditional top three Ajax, PSV and Feyenoord at the top.

Have you had interests from other clubs during the off season?

Yes, there were some clubs actually interested, but at this moment FC Utrecht don’t want to let me go. And I’m committed to giving my best to the club.

The NFF has opened doors to players with Nigerian roots to play for the Super Eagles. Are you still considering playing for Nigeria or would prefer to bid your time for Belgium, where you were born?

It would be a big honour to play for Nigeria and it would be a no-brainer for me. I was born and grew up in Belgium, but when I look in the mirror or to my character, I can see that I’m Nigerian/African. My dream has always been to represent Nigeria, wear the green and white jersey and put smiles on the faces of Nigerians. Hopefully, one day that will happen.

What can you bring to the Eagles if you are invited?

Goals, that’s what I’m good at. There is so much quality in the Nigerian squad, but I hope to get a chance and then show how I can also contribute to the team.

Can you tell us about your connection to Nigeria?

My mother is Nigerian and I still have a lot of family members in Lagos. Nigerians are wonderful people.

How much of Nigeria do you know?

I know the country and what has been going on. I’ve not been there yet, but I want to go there as soon as possible.

You have a Belgian dad but you are so intent on playing for the Eagles. Did your mum convince you?

(Laughs) Not at all, like I said, it would be an honour. This is something I want and I would make both my mum and dad proud by achieving my dream playing for Nigeria.

What was it like having to watch other players at the World Cup on TV?

It was a pleasure to see guys that you’ve played with or played against on such a big stage.

How would you describe Nigeria’s performance at the 2018 World Cup?

They were so close (to advancing from the their group) but were also a little bit unlucky with the hand ball against Argentina. But they played good football, don’t forget that they had one of the toughest groups with Croatia who reached the final and Argentina with Lionel Messi.

No African team made it beyond the group stage. What do you think is the cause?

Like I said previously, some teams were close like Nigeria and Senegal as well, but sometimes you will need a little bit of luck. Africa is coming, no doubt.

What’s your impression about Nigerian players?

I see a lot of Nigerian players all over Europe, also in big clubs and big competitions, and I think that’s a really positive sign. That means clubs and people appreciate their talents and work ethics.

Who’s your role model Nigerian footballer?

I think that must be (Nwankwo) Kanu, he is a true legend and was world-class during his playing days. He was always a delight to watch, an inspirational personality. But when I was young, (Obafemi) Martins was also rising and I used to buy him on FIFA on the play station every time.

What was your childhood like?

That’s a funny story. As a kid I also dreamt about being a football player, but my parents always told me that school was way more important. So I did very good at school and was playing at amateur level until I was 16 years. I even went to university to study Law for two years, before I became a professional footballer. What I learnt from my parents was not to waste my talents and work hard at school and in football.

As a striker, what are your goals targets for the incoming season?

It’s dangerous to put a number on it, but last year I had 12 goals and five assists in 20 starting games, so I hope to do better this season.

Can you remember any crazy thing you once did on the pitch?

The craziest thing I’ve done was scoring a hat-trick in the final of the play-offs for promotion with NAC Breda last year.

Which defender has given you the toughest time?

That must be Matthijs de Ligt from Ajax. He is so strong, fast and mature for his young age. No wonder he has attracted interest from Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Juventus. Zenit Saint Petersburg’s Branislav Ivanovic, formerly of Chelsea, is also very good; he can read the game very well with his experience.

Who is Cyriel Dessers?

This is a difficult one. Cyriel Dessers is a young man who wants to see the world, learn a lot from other people and places and enjoy my life as a football player, because it is a dream and a privilege. I have some dreams and goals and one of them is to become a Super Eagle one day.

https://punchng.com/i-have-a-belgian-dad-but-my-heart-is-with-eagles-dessers/

Sir. Truidstar must be smiling wherever he is.

Do have a great week folks.
And Don't forget that Our girls will be taking on China in their last group game today at 3:30pm Nigeria Time.

Wishing the girls all the best in this crunch encounter.

By now Victor Agali-i hope i am correct- would have been marshalling out players of Nigeria descent he would be giving to Rohr. Its like he has been quiet since he was appointed to scout for such players

To me(i know nobody asked me )Dele is still better than Uzoho. They both have size but Dele Alampasu has reflexes. I wonder why he has been silent on moving to guarantee playing time.

gamaliel9:
By now Victor Agali-i hope i am correct- would have been marshalling out players of Nigeria descent he would be giving to Rohr. Its like he has been quiet since he was appointed to scout for such players

Our next coach must be young and enterprising. A young man would get on his laptop and watch these players live. This is 2018, streaming sites and YouTube are available to make things easier.

heard rumors of rohr dropping about 7 players for the afcon qualifiers against seychelles. he is set to hand call up to few uncapped and untested players. the likes of mikel,onazi,elderson,ighalo,joel and ogu are all likely to be dropped for the encounter

BascoVanVeli:
Our next coach must be young and enterprising. A young man would get on his laptop and watch these players live. This is 2018, streaming sites and YouTube are available to make things easier.

the likes of bazee,onyekuru,aina,agbo,samuel kalu and success are likely to be invited for the trip to seychelles

charlesemeka85:
heard rumors of rohr dropping about 7 players for the afcon qualifiers against seychelles. he is set to hand call up to few uncapped and untested players. the likes of mikel,onazi,elderson,ighalo,joel and ogu are all likely to be dropped for the encounter

Saw something similar on nairaland front page

Super Eagle’s To Drop 7 Players including Mikel and Ighalo For Seychelles Game


Gernot Rohr have hinted that seven players who participated for Nigeria in the last World cup tournament in Russia, are unlikely to receive invitation for the AFCON Qualifiers against Seychelles which is to be played in September 8 Completesportsnigerian.com reports.

Rohr who remained in Europe after the country’s early exit from the World cup have revealed his plans to bring in some fringe players who could not make it to the last World cup according to an official in the NFF Secretariat in Abuja.

“Coach Rohr has remained in Europe to monitor our players and scout some emerging stars with the view to capping them and he has also hinted at his plan to drop some world cup Eagles because of injuries, loss of form or for tactical reasons,” our source who requested anonymity told Completesportsnigeria.com in Abuja

“He would have been here to submit his world cup report, but had to stay back because of the leadership tussle at the NFF, but all things being equal, Rohr may be in the country next week to submit his report and release his squad list for the Seychelles game in September”

Reports have indicated that Kelechi Nwakali could be recalled while Tyronne Ebuehi and John Obi Mikel are likely to be dropped due to injuries. Reports all hints that Joel Obi, Elderson Echiejele, Odion Ighalo and Ogenyi Onazi could all give way for younger generation of Nigerian footballers.

https://www.trendingfootballnews.com/super-eagles-to-drop-seven-players-for-seychelles-game/

Abusule007:
Saw something similar on nairaland front page

Super Eagle’s To Drop 7 Players including Mikel and Ighalo For Seychelles Game


Gernot Rohr have hinted that seven players who participated for Nigeria in the last World cup tournament in Russia, are unlikely to receive invitation for the AFCON Qualifiers against Seychelles which is to be played in September 8 Completesportsnigerian.com reports.

Rohr who remained in Europe after the country’s early exit from the World cup have revealed his plans to bring in some fringe players who could not make it to the last World cup according to an official in the NFF Secretariat in Abuja.

“Coach Rohr has remained in Europe to monitor our players and scout some emerging stars with the view to capping them and he has also hinted at his plan to drop some world cup Eagles because of injuries, loss of form or for tactical reasons,” our source who requested anonymity told Completesportsnigeria.com in Abuja

“He would have been here to submit his world cup report, but had to stay back because of the leadership tussle at the NFF, but all things being equal, Rohr may be in the country next week to submit his report and release his squad list for the Seychelles game in September”

Reports have indicated that Kelechi Nwakali could be recalled while Tyronne Ebuehi and John Obi Mikel are likely to be dropped due to injuries. Reports all hints that Joel Obi, Elderson Echiejele, Odion Ighalo and Ogenyi Onazi could all give way for younger generation of Nigerian footballers.

https://www.trendingfootballnews.com/super-eagles-to-drop-seven-players-for-seychelles-game/

Ebere Eze is miles ahead of Nwakali in terms of development.

charlesemeka85:
the likes of bazee,onyekuru,aina,agbo,samuel kalu and success are likely to be invited for the trip to seychelles

Bazee, onyekuru, Aina, agbo and success are not new to the super eagles. They all have played at least a match for the super eagles.. only kalu will be new. I just hope there wouldn't be much changes.. even if we are to use those super eagles B that played against Alt Madrid with little additions, im pretty sure that they will get 3 points against Seychelles.

charlesemeka85:
the likes of bazee,onyekuru,aina,agbo,samuel kalu and success are likely to be invited for the trip to seychelles

Bazee ke? invite ke? is that one having game time in his club?

Abeg he should not be invited

andrew444:
Bazee ke? invite ke? is that one having game time in his club?

Abeg he should not be invited

Bazee has been playing in preseason . He had an injury ravaged season last year but he is back.

the guy have recovered from injury and have been in good form in preseason matches

andrew444:
Bazee ke? invite ke? is that one having game time in his club?

Abeg he should not be invited

tbaba1234:
Ebere Eze is miles ahead of Nwakali in twrms of development.

To me,I won't fall for this again


When it mattered most for national assignments, those we claimed were "miles" ahead of someone became d flop at d biggest stage...one example is J.obi

elyte89:
To me,I won't fall for this again

When it mattered most for national assignments, those we claimed were "miles" ahead of someone became d flop at d biggest stage...one example is J.obi

We can only go by what they are doing on a professional level. I am stating the obvious.

Ebere Eze is currently ranked as the best ever product from the QPR academy. His impact in the championship has been clear.

Nwakali for all his talent has not shown anything in lower leagues. Personally, i do not think he is ready for the national team

For now, Eze is obviously ahead but how they will perform for Nigeria is a different proposition.

That Ajibade sucks

charlesemeka85:
the guy have recovered from injury and have been in good form in preseason matches

So make dem use pre season invite player? because na oyinbo una want make them invite am even if e no dey play or not.

Allow the german league to start and see him play before you call for his invitation

Joining our ladies match and we are already a goal down.