Everton manager Frank Lampard has showered encomium on winger Alex Iwobi following his superlative display in the club’s 1-0 win against Manchester United at the Goodison Park on Saturday, reports Completesports.com.

Iwobi was one of Everton’s top performers in the thrilling encounter.

The Nigeria international, who has featured regularly for the Merseysiders since Frank Lampard took charge of the team was in action for 90 minutes in the game.

The 25-year-old has registered two goals in 22 league appearances for the Toffees this season.

“Alex [Iwobi] is one who people can see I rely on. We have moved his position, we have changed in, and he has offered so much,” Lampard said as quoted by Liverpool World.

“I think you could feel the crowd’s reaction towards him today with his energy and qualities.

“I don’t know how many kilometers he has run this week, but he’s done it again.

“It is about character, and Premier League players get questioned in difficult moments. A lot of questions asked about [him] and me over the last few days, especially if you make those individual errors.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/lampard-thumbs-up-quality-player-iwobi/

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has directed its technical committee to recommend new coaches for the Super Eagles, CHAN Eagles, Flying Eagles and Golden Eaglets.

The NFF gave the directive following the meeting of the executive committee in Abuja on Tuesday.

The technical committee is to make. recommendations for the various posts within five weeks.

It would be recalled that the NFF announced the sacking of the Super Eagles technical crew following the failure of the team to secure a spot at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

‘The Executive Committee mandated its technical and development sub-committee to within 5 days make recommendations to the Executive Committee on coaching crews for the Super Eagles, the CHAN team, the U20 Boys (Flying Eagles) and the U17 Boys (the Golden Eaglets) ahead of upcoming assignments,”reads the communique.

“This is to ensure preparations for the next qualifying tournaments and championships commence in earnest.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/nff-to-name-new-coaches-for-super-eagles-flying-eagles-golden-eaglets/

Former Nigerian defender, Ifeanyi Udeze has revealed that former Super Eagles interim coach, Austine Eguavoen was not fully in charge of the senior national team during his three month reign as coach.



In an interview with Brila FM, Udeze blamed Eguavoen for not having enough guts to stamp his authority on the team and not taking key decisions when it mattered most.

He also advised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to appoint a foreign coach that will manage the Super Eagles.

“As much as I want an indigenous coach to be in charge of the Eagles, a foreign coach must be the head,” the former PAOK Thessaloniki star stated this in an interview with Brila FM.



“Eguavoen was not fully in charge of the Eagles for the World Cup qualifiers because he had said he invited some players to the team to pacify some individuals at the NFF.

“That showed that he did not take full charge of the team. Those that he tried to pacify then where are they now?

“Some of his decisions during the game (versus Ghana) also didn’t show he had enough information about the opponents he was playing (against).



“I find it very annoying to know that it was an Eagles player that informed the technical crew that the Ghanaian team had switched to a back five at half time when we introduced Abdullahi Shehu.



“We had a creative player in Akinkunmi Amoo who should have been introduced to help the team from the bench but that did not happen.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/eguavoen-was-not-in-charge-of-eagles-udeze/[/b]

Former Nigerian forward, Victor Ikpeba has blamed the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for the Super Eagles failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup slated for Qatar.

Speaking on Monday Night Football, the former international revealed that Eguavoen did not support NFF’s decision to terminate Gernot Rohr’s contract just few weeks to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.

Recall that Rohr qualified the senior national team to the biennual tournament and also the 2022 World Cup qualifying playoffs.

Reacting to this, the former Monaco star said that the NFF and not Eguavoen should bear the responsibility for the Eagles’ absence in Qatar.

“Eguavoen was not in support of the decision to sack Rohr,” the 1997 CAF Player of the Year said.

“The NFF should take responsibility of Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup and not Eguavoen.”

The last time the Eagles failed to qualify for the World Cup was the 2006 edition in Germany.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/eguavoen-never-supported-nffs-decision-to-sack-rohr-ikpeba/

Former Super Eagles interim coach, Austine Eguavoen has revealed that he would be delighted to manage the senior national team anytime he’s called up by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Nigeria failed to qualify for this year’s World Cup in Qatar after losing to the Black Stars of Ghana on the away goal rule last month.

Speaking during SuperSports’ program, Monday Night Football, Eguavoen said he would take the opportunity to coach the Super Eagles again if he is called upon in the near future.

“If there is still an opportunity for me, I will want to coach the Eagles again, but not at this moment, maybe later,” Eguavoen said.

“If I am called upon to lead the team again, I will definitely take up the job. I am still one of the good coaches in the country. I can still prove a point, it is just a matter of time.

“No regrets taking up the job. When you are called to serve the nation, I could not refuse them,” he added.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/i-will-take-up-super-eagles-job-if-called-upon-again-eguavoen/

Crystal Palace dealt Arsenal’s top four hopes a blow after a convincing 3-0 win at Selhurst Park on Monday night.

The result means former Arsenal skipper Patrick Vieira took four points off Mikel Arteta’s side this season.

Goals from Jean-Phillippe, Jordan Ayew and Wilfried Zaha, saw Palace continue their fine form.

Arsenal are now in fifth place on 54 points, same points as North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur who occupy fourth spot.

The Gunners lost left-back Kieran Tierney to injury while Thomas Partey also went off with a knock.

Palace made their positive start count as they took the lead on 16 minutes as Mateta nodded the ball in past Aaron Ramsdale following Joachim Andersen’s header back across goal.

In the 24 minute Ayew doubled the lead, cutting inside and guiding Andersen’s excellent pass into the far corner.

And on 74 minutes Zaha put the game to bed after converting from the penalty spot following a foul on him by Martin Odegaard.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/arsenals-top-four-hopes-suffer-setback-after-heavy-loss-at-palace/

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho says he will take responsibility of the team’s inability not to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Recall that it was Uzoho’s error that gave the Black Stars of Ghana their only goal at the Moshood Abiola Stadium last week which denied Nigeria a place in Qatar in November.

In his official Instagram handle, Uzoho blamed himself for the Super Eagles not qualifying for the mundial and has vowed to atone for his error in subsequent matches.

The goalkeeper promised to make sure he returns the smiles on the faces of Nigerian supporters.

“This past couple of days has been the worst in my lifetime.

“I wanted to take my nation to Qatar but rather did the opposite. I know what football means to you all and to myself, I can’t promise not to make mistakes again but I can promise not to give up until I bring back that smile on your faces.

“Thank you for the support and God bless.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/i-cant-promise-not-to-make-mistakes-again-uzoho-breaks-silence-after-error-vs-black-stars/

Carlo Ancelotti is a doubt for Wednesday’s Champions League first leg quarter-final tie between Real Madrid and Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.

Ancelotti missed out on Madrid’s 2-1 victory against Celta Vigo at the weekend having tested positive for Covid-19.

And according to Spanish outlet AS, Ancelotti is fine but is still returning positive tests for the virus so could potentially be forced to sit-out of the trip to Stamford Bridge.

His son Davide was in charge for the league clash with Celta Vigo and could well be at the reins yet again should his father not be able to travel.

Ancelotti won the Champions League on three occasions in the past – those wins coming during his time at AC Milan and Real Madrid.

The Italian has only ever taken on his former side on three occasions – all three clashes coming during his stint back in the Premier League with Everton.

He lost the first game 4-0 at Stamford Bridge before securing a memorable 1-0 victory at Goodison Park. The last game again ended in favour of the Blues with an own-goal from Ben Godfrey and a Jorginho penalty securing maximum points.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/ancelotti-doubtful-for-chelsea-vs-madrid-champions-league-q-final-clash/

Paul Onuachu netted a hat-trick for Genk who hammered Eupen 5-0 in Sunday’s Belgian Jupiler fixture.

The game ended Genk’s run of three consecutive games without a win (two defeats and one draw).

Onuachu opened scoring from the penalty spot in the 11th minute before making it 2-0 also from the spot in the third minute of first half added time.

And in the 79th minute he completed his hat-trick to make it 5-0 to Genk.

Onuachu now has 19 goals in 28 league games for the Belgian outfit this season.


He currently sits in third place in the top scorers chart and six goals behind first.

The win saw Genk, in 48 points, maintain eight place which is the UEFA Europa League Play-off spot.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/onuachu-bags-hat-trick-in-genks-5-0-home-win/

The Guild of Sports Editors, the umbrella body of managers of sports in the country’s major media organisations, has advised members of the Executive Committee of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to resign from their positions honourably and give the game chance to breathe.

Speaking on the backdrop of the country’s senior national football team, Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for Qatar 2022 World Cup, the editors said the board members would be doing the nation great injustice if they continued to misdirect Nigerian football after last Tuesday’s misadventure.

In a statement signed by the Guild’s Vice President, Adekunle Salami, the editors described the decision to sack members of Super Eagles’ technical crew as diversionary, adding that Nigerian football needed a clean break from the malaise of the last eight years.

“Nigerian football is bigger than any individual and should not be tied to the fortunes of anybody.

“The leadership of the current NFF has ridden on the back of Nigerian football to get to top positions in world football governing body, FIFA, to the detriment of the game.

“Nigerian football now needs total overhaul, from the lowest league to the national team and that can only happen when patriotic individuals, not self-seekers, are given opportunity to manage the game.

“We call on the National Assembly, Federal Government, and especially, Sports Minister, Sunday Dare, to begin the process of cleansing the football house.

“Tuesday’s failure is a one of the results of poor decision making, dishonest deployment of men and materials, as well as avarice that have eaten deep into the fabrics of the NFF.

“We ask, therefore, that every executive member of the federation should resign honourably;

“All the back room staff, including Super Eagles secretary, team manager and protocol officer, among other officers, who have spent more than 10 years in office, must be redeployed to allow for fresh ideas.”

The editors accused the current leadership of the NFF of killing Nigeria’s football, saying many of the board members use their respective positions to fulfil personal interests.

The Guild also recalls that the Algeria Football Federation (AFF) president Sharafeddine Emara resigned after his country failed to qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup following the 2-1 defeat suffered against Cameroon at home last week.

“It is unfortunate that the NFF has killed the local league to such an extent that no player from the domestic game is deemed capable of playing for the Super Eagles.

“The junior national teams, which, hitherto, was a nursery for the Super Eagles, no longer produce quality youngsters because of the corruption that has killed the age grade teams.”

Source::[b] https://www.completesports.com/resign-sports-editors-tell-nff-board-members/

Otto Addo says he felt pity for the Super Eagles after the Black Stars of Ghana beat them to the 2022 World Cup qualifying playoffs on Tuesday.

The Black Stars picked the ticket after holding the Eagles to a 1-1 draw inside the Moshood Abiola stadium.

The four-time AFCON champions qualified for their fourth World Cup on the away goals rule after the first leg ended goalless in Kumasi on Friday.

And speaking after securing the ticket, Addo: “I’m really delighted, exhausted, it was a tough match and we fought our way through.

“We had big problems especially in the first half, and through some changes, the players gave their tactics very well and still they [the Nigerians] had some good chances.

“Our goalkeeper was there when we needed him and we had a little bit of luck also, because if you see the chances the Nigerians were better.

“I feel a bit pity for them but this is football, sometimes and we fought our way through.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-i-feel-pity-for-super-eagles-black-stars-coach-addo/

CAF doping officer Dr. Joseph Kabungo from Zambia, has lost his life after he was allegedly attacked by angry Abuja fans in Tuesday’s 2022 World Cup qualifying playoffs between Nigeria and Ghana, reports zambianfootball.co.zm.

The Black Stars sealed qualification to this year’s World Cup after holding the Eagles to a 1-1 draw. The first leg in Kumasi ended goalless on Friday.

Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey opened scoring in the 11th minute before William Troost-Ekong equalised from the penalty spot.

After the referee blew the final whistle, angry fans invaded the pitch and destroyed stadium facilities.

It was reported that following the pitch invasion Dr. Kabungo was allegedly beaten and stepped on as fans tried to make their way out of the stadium.

According to a Ghanaian sports journalist Collins Atta Poku on Twitter:”They beat him, he fell and they throded on him. He lost consciousness was rushed to an ambulance closer to the Ghana dressing for CPR.

“The entire Ghanaian contingent watched on as resuscitation attempts were made with oxygen mask. He was taken to hospital later and now this. Sad.”

However, according to some officials, they claimed that Dr. Kabungo died as a result of cardiac arrest.

This is the first time the Eagles will fail to qualify for the World Cup since missing out on the 2006 edition in Germany.
Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-caf-official-dies-after-allegedly-attacked-by-angry-abuja-fans/

Former Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr has backed the team to secure a place at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar at the expense of the Black Stars of Ghana, reports Completesports.com.

The Super Eagles will host their perenial rivals in the second leg of the playoffs at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja on Tuesday (today).

The two teams battled to a 0-0 draw in the first leg at the Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi last week Friday.

Rohr lamented the absence of Alex Iwobi, who is suspended for the game, but insisted the Super Eagles have the quality to beat the Ghanaians.
“Nigerians missing Iwobi is not good, he is very good at giving incisive passes…“I will tip Nigeria to win 2-1,” Rohr told Accra-based Angel FM.

“Ghana have players for counter-attacks, so if they want to qualify they must use that and make sure they don’t concede.”

The last time Nigeria hosted Ghana in the World Cup qualifiers was in July 2001 and the Super Eagles emerged 3-0 winners in Port Harcourt.

The two teams had drawn 0-0 in the reverse fixture in Accra and the Super Eagles went on to qualify for the 2002 edition in South Korea, and Japan.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/rohr-tips-super-eagles-to-beat-black-stars/

Super Eagles assistant coach, Emmanuel Amuneke has advised the team to remain focused and work very hard to defeat the Black Stars of Ghana in today’s 2022 World Cup qualifying playoffs slated for the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

He stated this ahead of the second leg of the 2022 World Cup playoff between both countries.

The first leg ended in a 0-0 draw at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi last Friday.

Amuneke advised Super Eagles to have cohesion in attack and defence.

He said: “The important thing is to have cohesion, knowing when to attack and when to defend without losing the structure of the team.

“Just like us, the Ghanaians also want to go to the World Cup, and just like our players, Ghanaian players also play in Europe. So they are aware from a tactical, technical, individual and team point of view, so we must have that respect for them.

“That means we have to stay focused and work hard. I believe that if we do our jobs, then we can win the game, but we cannot be complacent.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-playoffs-eagles-must-stay-focused-work-hard-to-overcome-ghana-amuneke/

Moses Simon has promised Nigerians that Super Eagles players will give their all in Tuesday’s 2022 World Cup qualifying playoffs against Ghana.

A win for the Eagles will seal a seventh World Cup appearance while Ghana are seeking a fourth outing at the mundial.

The first leg saw the Eagles battle to a goalless draw in Kumasi on Friday.

And Simon, who featured in the first game sounded out the importance of the game and the team spirit.

He said in Monday’s presser:”It’s not all about me it’s all about the teams and team spirit of course we know all it takes for this game we will give everything.”

On talks that he was caged against Tunisia and Ghana he said it was not the case.

“The game against Tunisia I was not caged and against Ghana we all know it’s tactics. It can be difficult because we know how Ghana play but we are confident of overcoming them.”

Meanwhile, the duo of Samuel Chukwueze and Innocent Bonke are doubts for the game due to injuries.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-we-will-give-everything-on-the-pitch-simon/

Ghana president Nana Akufo Addo has sent goodwill message to the Black Stars ahead of Tuesday’s 2022 FIFA World Cup playoffs second clash against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, reports Completesports.com.

“I wish the Black Stars, who gave a good account of themselves in Kumasi, the best of luck in Abuja on Tuesday.” the president said.

The Black Stars were held to a 0-0 draw in the first leg last week Friday at the Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi.

The players and their officials are expected to arrive Abuja on Monday for the highly anticipated encounter.

The Black Stars will have their last training session ahead of the game at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja by 6pm today.

The overall winners of the contest will proceed to Qatar 2022.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/ghana-president-sends-goodwill-message-to-black-stars-ahead-super-eagles-decider/

Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen has expressed confidence that the team will overcome the Black Stars of Ghana in Tuesday’s 2022 World Cup qualifying playoffs slated for the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Recall that the first leg in Kumasi ended goalless last week Friday and the winner of the second leg will automatically qualify for world football showpiece in Qatar.

In an interview with NFF TV, the Napoli striker stated that the players are ready to battle the Black Stars in a bid to claim the ticket for the World Cup.

He also noted that the encounter won’t be an easy game for the Super Eagles but that they have the quality players and squad depth to overcome Ghana in Abuja.


“I think it means a lot to me but the whole team and we are really looking forward to this game coming on Tuesday. Of course like I always say, it won’t be easy and it hasn’t been easy most especially in Africa because it is very physical. Of course to get the World Cup ticket will mean a lot to this team.

“I think we are going to be playing with our 12th men on the pitch, that’s our fans and of course with the way they will support us I think we have a chance of getting this World Cup ticket. But it won’t be easy, we have to give respect to the Ghanaian team also because they have some great quality players.

“But I think we are ready because we have good quality players and individual talents that can equally win the game for us. And we have a very good squad depth. And the bench also, we have good quality players that can come from the bench and make a difference. And we are really looking forward to this game as a group.

In the same vein, Super Eagles striker, Odion Ighalo has reiterated that the team will do everything possible to qualify for the World Cup.

He said this in an interview with NFF TV, where he said that they will take every goal scoring chances that comes their way against the Black Stars of Ghana.

He also called on the Nigerian fans to come out en mass and support the team to glory.

“I tried to talk to the younger guys that have not been there before now. This is an opportunity for us to go to Qatar 2022 because you won’t know how it feels now until after your football career you will understand what it means to play in the World Cup. Like I said, I have been there before and I know what it is and I am looking forward by God’s grace to go to another one again.


“This is home advantage for us but we are not going to go to sleep because its going to be a difficult game. Ghana will definitely come all out because they have nothing to lose here now than to come out. We just have to give 110% of our best in the game on Tuesday. Take our chances, fight from the start to finish till the final whistle. I know by God’s grace we are going to come out victorious but we have to work hard. It is going to be a tough one but we are going to win by God’s grace.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-playoffs-ghana-will-be-tough-but-eagles-will-come-out-victorious-osimhen-ighalo/

Former Nigerian goalkeeper, Ike Shorunmu has hailed the spirit and the determination of the players in camp in Abuja ahead of the big clash between the Super Eagles and the Black Stars of Ghana in a 2022 World Cup qualifying playoff.



Recall that Nigeria will face the Black Stars on Friday, March 25 before hosting the return leg at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on March 29.

In an interview with Completesports.com, Shorunmu stated that the Super Eagles are poised for victory against the Black Stars of Ghana in Kumasi.



He reiterated that the players are eager and hungry to deliver the World Cup ticket to Nigerians.

“I am confident the Super Eagles will overcome the Black Stars of Ghana in Kumasi. The spirit and determination in camp tells you the players are ready for the big game on Friday.



“Ghana are a very good side and I know they will want to prove strong against Nigeria but I believe we have the players that will silence them in Kumasi.”

S[b]ource: https://www.completesports.com/exclusive-2022-wcq-playoffs-eagles-will-silence-ghana-in-kumasi-shorunmu/[/b]

Leicester City forward Ademola Lookman is the latest player to arrive the Super Eagles Abuja camp, for the 2022 World Cup qualifying double header with the Black Stars of Ghana, Completesports.com reports.

Lookman’s arrival was confirmed in a video published on NFF TV on Wednesday morning.

This means 23 players are currently in Abuja for the crucial playoffs with the four-time AFCON winners.

And speaking after hitting camp, Lookman expressed his delight joining up with his new teammates.

“Hi guys, it’s Ademola Lookman here. Just arrive the camp, I’m happy to be here. And Naija mo ti de (I’ve arrived),” he said in the video clip.

The duo of John Noble and Almeria striker Umar Sadiq are the only two players still being expected.

It was earlier reported that Lookman was down with illness after missing Leicester’s weekend game.

But the former England junior international has recovered and will be looking forward to making his debut for Nigeria.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-lookman-arrives-super-eagles-camp/

Ahead of Friday’s Ghana-Nigeria 2022 World Cup playoffs first leg match in Kumasi, Super Eagles coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has expressed satisfaction with the players’ response in camp and training session, and assures that the team is ready to go and do the nation proud, Completesports.com reports.

Eguavoen while speaking after the Super Eagles’ first training session in Abuja on Tuesday ahead of their Kumasi trip, says that the injury concerns in the squad have been adequately taken care of. He explains that Maduka Okoye who fell ill might still join the team, while Innocent Bonke has replaced injured Wilfred Ndidi.

“I am very satisfied, you can see that the boys are ready to go. The good thing is that they are in season, they are in form and their confidence is very high. No injury worries and I am very satisfied with what we saw in our first training session, one hour, 15 minutes,” Eguavoen said.


“I got a message from Maduka Okoye, that he is going to come but we have a backup in John Noble who is is going join us. If Maduka recovers and joins us there is no problem.but we have Noble as a backup.

“Hopefully, we’ll have two more training sessions before the game, anything more than that will be suicidal. It is more of tactical talks than physicality now. We are ready to go,” Eguavoen concluded.

The Super Eagles will host the Black Stars in the reverse fixture at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium Abuja on Tuesday, March 29 2022. The winner over the two legs will represent Africa, alongside four other qualified nations, at Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/eguavoen-satisfied-with-eagles-response-assures-team-is-ready-for-ghana-clashes/

Former Nigerian forward, Jonathan Akpoborie has reiterated that the Super Eagles have nothing to fear about ahead of the crucial clash against the Black Stars of Ghana in a 2022 World Cup qualifying playoff in Kumasi.



Recall that Ghana will host the first leg on March 25 before the reverse fixture on March 29 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

In an interview with Completesports.com, the former Wolfsburg striker stated that the Black Stars will not escape defeat in Kumasi this Friday.



He noted that the Super Eagles are not be intimated by their fans and antics on match day.

“The Super Eagles are poised for glory and I don’t see them falling to their West African neighbour in the World Cup playoffs.



*One thing is certain, the Black Stars of Ghana will not escape defeat in Kumasi because our players willing to rewrite history book.

” It is a tough task but I know Austin Eguavoen and the players will sacrifice everything to get the ticket.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/exclusive-2022-wcq-playoffs-ghana-wont-escape-defeat-in-kumasi-akpoborie/

Ghana assistant coach George Boateng has stated that the technical crew have a solid plan in place to beat the Super Eagles to the 2022 FIFA World Cup ticket.

The Black Stars will face their eternal rivals in a two-legged qualifiers with the winner proceeding to Qatar 2022.

Otto Addo’s side commenced preparations for the two games on Monday evening with their first training.

They will on Tuesday (today) travel to Kumasi where they will hold two training sessions ahead of the first leg.

“It is an honour, a great privilege to be part of the technical team for the upcoming matches against Nigeria. Ghana is well placed to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar and as a team, we are putting in place a very solid plan to come out victorious,” Boateng said.

George went on to ask for the support of Ghanaians ahead of the game.

“I would like to ask all Ghanaians to put their weight behind the team in this crucial moment. We are Ghana, we are the Black Stars, and we are capable.”

Friday’s encounter will take place at the Baba Yara Stadium, Kumasi.

The return leg will be played four days later at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/boateng-we-have-a-solid-plan-to-beat-super-eagles/

Ghana head coach Otto Addo has named a 27-man squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup playoffs against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, reports Completesports.com.

Crystal Palace forward Jordan Ayew is included in the squad despite testing positive for Covid-19.

Belgium-based duo of Denis Odoi and Elisha Owusu, Montari Kamahene of Ashdod FC in Israel and Dennis Korsah of Hearts of Oak were handed debut call-ups by Addo.

Roma youngster Felix Afena-Gyan is also included in the squad after he failed to make the cut to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

Captain, Andre Ayew, misses out due to suspension.

Ghana will host the first leg at the Baba Yara Sports stadium, Kumasi on Friday before travelling to Abuja for the second leg next week Tuesday.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-w-c-playoffs-ghana-coach-addo-unveils-squad-to-face-super-eagles/

Super Eagles vice-captain William Troost-Ekong, Leon Balogun and Ola Aina were among the early arrivals at the team’s camp in the prestigious The Well Carlton Hotel and Apartments, Asokoro, Abuja.

The duo of Semi Ajayi and Frank Onyeka are also in camp.

Their arrivals was confirmed on the team’s official Twitter handle on Monady morning.

“Update! 5 players in camp…William Troost-Ekong, Leon Balogun, Semi Ajayi, Ola Aina, Frank Onyeka. #SoarSuperEagles,”reads the tweet.

“More players are expected in camp on Monday as the Super Eagles begin preparation for the 2022 FIFA World Cup playoffs against the Black Stars of Ghana.

The Super Eagles will face the Black Stars in the first leg at the Baba Yara Stadium
, Kumasi on Friday.

The reverse fixture is billed for the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja four days later.

The winner of the tie will be in Qatar for the World Cup later this year.

Source: ompletesports.com/real-madrid-boss-ancelotti-takes-responsibility-for-barcelona-defeat/

Black Stars of Ghana are set to be without Jordan Ayew for the 2022 World Cup qualifying playoffs with Nigeria, after the Crystal Palace striker tested positive for coronavirus, according to ghanaweb.com.

Ayew was left out of Palace‘s squad in Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final game against Everton at Selhurst Park.

The 30-year-old was initially named in the Palace squad, but was dropped after tests confirmed he was positive.

The period of time an individual must spend in self-isolation varies, but, per NHS, Premier League players are expected to self isolate for 10 days.

However, it is possible for an individual to come out of self-isolation after five days, provided they have two negative lateral flow tests, 24 hours apart.

The stipulated date however means Ayew is likely to miss the two legged ties with the Super Eagles.

Following the latest setback, Black Stars will now be without the Ayew brothers for the crucial games after Andre Ayew was ruled out due to suspension.

The stipulated date however means Ayew is likely to miss the two legged ties with the Super Eagles.

Following the latest setback, Black Stars will now be without the Ayew brothers for the crucial games after Andre Ayew was ruled out due to suspension.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-blow-for-black-stars-as-ayew-tests-positive-for-covid-19-ahead-ghana-vs-nigeria/

Super Eagles interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen has opened up on how he tried to convinced former Aston Villa striker, Gabriel Agbonlahor to represent Nigeria ahead of the Three Lions of England.



Eguavoen made this known in an interview with Elegbete TV Sports, where he said that Agbonlahor, who was in top form at the time snubbed him in 2006, during his (Eguavoen) first stint as interim boss of the national team.

Recall that Agbonlahor, who was born in Birmingham, was eligible to wear the colours of the Super Eagles as well as England and Scotland.



Eguavoen, who took the Super Eagles to the last Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon where the team crashed out in the last 16 to Tunisia, said he was asked why he wanted to see Agbonlahor, and after explaining himself to the club’s officials, they said, “okay they’ll get back to me.

“When Agbonlahor was in Aston Villa, I went to England, I tried to reach him on the phone before going to Villa because it’s not a place you just go to, Aston Villa Stadium in Birmingham, and start looking for a player,” Eguavoen said to Elegbete TV Sports, where he also spoke on many other issues concerning the Super Eagles.

“They got back to me only to say Agbonlahor is not ready to see anybody at this point in time, maybe some other time.”

“Take for example you invite Agbonlahor from Aston Villa, you’d look stupid if he doesn’t show up, so you must engage people first, discuss and find out if it’s something they want to get into or not,” he added.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/eguavoen-how-i-tried-to-convince-agbonlahor-to-represent-nigeria/

Former Italy striker, Antonio Cassano has revealed that he had doubts about Super Eagles Osimhen’s quality when he came to the Serie A, but he’s been proven wrong game after game with Napoli.



Recall that the Nigerian international netted a brace in Napoli’s 2-1 away win over Hellas Verona at the weekend.

However, Cassano stated this while speaking on Bobo TV via Tutto Napoli.



“The header scored by Osimhen is incredible, it looked like a missile.

”Napoli went to a tremendous stadium and played a great match as a great team that wants to stay connected to the others. Juventus suffered more with Sampdoria than Napoli with Hellas.

“Osimhen? I did not believe in his potential, I had many doubts and instead with the passing of the games, I can say that I realized that he can become a top player in the world,” Cassano said.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/osimhens-quality-at-napoli-is-unquestionable-cassano/

Sparta Rotterdam coach, Henk Fraser has hailled Super Eagles goalkeeper, Maduka Okoye’s rising ‘mental strength and development’ playing for the Dutch Eredivisie side, Completesports.com reports.

Okoye put on an impressive performance at the weekend against Go Ahead Eagles, keeping another clean sheet as De Kasteelheren (The Castle Lords) won the game 1-0 at the Sparta Stadium to keep their hopes of surviving relegation threat alive.

Speaking during his post-match news conference, Fraser lauded Okoye for his overall performance so far this season.

“He has it in him to be the very best because his foundation is very grounded,” Fraser told reporters.

“Over time you see his mental strength and development increase and it is helping him.

“He has done well this season enough to say he is in the debate of the best young keepers in Europe at the moment.”

Okoye has featured in 20 of the Sparta’s 24 Eredivisie games so far this term. He has conceded 29 goals and recorded 4 clean sheets.

Sparta are currently 17th in the 18-team Dutch Eredivisie, with two games in hand. Their next match is against home side, NEC, on Saturday March 19, 2022.

S[b]ource: https://www.completesports.com/sparta-rotterdam-coach-fraser-hails-okoyes-steady-development/[/b]

Former Nigerian midfielder, Garba Lawal has warned the interim coach of the Super Eagles, Austine Eguavoen to beware of Ghana’s tactics and antics ahead of the fast-approaching 2022 World Cup qualifying playoff.



The Black Stars will host the Super Eagles in Accra on March 25 before the reverse fixture slated for Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on March 29.

n a chat with Completesports.com, the former Roda JC star stated that Ghana may want to frustrate the Super Eagles not just with their home supporters but also with their unwelcome approach in a bid to actualise their goal.



He however, noted that the team must be mentally and psychologically prepared to overcome such antics from their West African neighbour.

“The rivalry between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and Ghana have really come a long way and this very game that pit both teams together will even make it more fierce.

“However, Ghana may want to approach the game with a very different tactics and antics in order to achieve their utmost goal o qualifying for the 2022 World Cup.

This is where the Super Eagles must have to be careful and watchful even though we have the players that can get the job done. But then we have to help the players Psychologically and mentally before the game because the Ghana may focus more on their fans to achieve their aim.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/exclusive-2022-wcq-playoff-beware-of-black-stars-antics-garba-warns-eguavoen-eagles/

Black Stars of Ghana players invited for this month’s 2022 World Cup qualifying play-offs with Nigeria will start arriving in the country on Sunday March 20.

This is according to top Ghanaian football website, ghanasoccernet.com.
The Ghana FA is yet to announce the Black Stars squad for the doubleheader with just a few days for the team to open camp.

Black Stars interim coach Otto Addo has already submitted the squad to the Ghana Football Association for review.

The squad is dominated by players who featured at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

It is gathered that the Black Stars will officially open camp on Monday March 21, 2022 in Cape Coast.

The four-time AFCON winners will host Nigeria on March 25 in the first leg at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium

The second leg comes off four days time inside the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-black-stars-players-to-arrive-camp-sunday/

Odion Ighalo inspired new club Al Hilal to a 1-0 win at Al Raed in the Saudi Arabia Pro League on Sunday.

Ighalo provided the assist for Mali striker Moussa Marega to seal the winner in the 89th minute.

Al Hilal have now recorded their sixth consecutive wins losing 4-0 to Egypt’s Al Ahly in the FIFA Club World Cup in February.

It was Ighalo’s second assist of the 2021/2022 campaign in the Saudi Arabia topflight.

The win took Al Hilal to second place on 46 points, 11 points behind leaders Al Ittihad but with the former having played two games less.

Since joining Al Hilal from Al Shabab, Ighalo has scored four goals in five league games.

He is part of the Super Eagles squad that will take on the Black Stars of Ghana in the 2022 World Cup qualifying play-offs this month.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/ighalo-bags-assist-as-al-hilal-claim-away-win-to-keep-title-hopes-alive/

The first leg of the 2022 FIFA World Cup playoff between Ghana and Nigeria may be played at a neutral venue, Completesports.com reports.

The Cape Coast Stadium which has been initially approved for the game is in bad state at the moment.

There have been complaints about the pitch in Cape Coast after it hosted an Independence Day parade on 6 March to mark Ghana’s 65th anniversary.

There have been renovation works on the field, but it looks like it will not be in good condition for the highly anticipated encounter.

The Nigeria Football Federation filed a petition to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on the bad state of the pitch last week and a CAF/FIFA inspection delegation is now in Ghana this week to follow up on this.

CAF had earlier rejected an application by Ghana for the match to be moved to the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

The match may be moved to a neutral venue with Benin and Morocco suitable options.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-w-cup-playoff-ghana-may-host-super-eagles-at-neutral-venue/