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Taiwo Awoniyi is prepared to lead Nigeria’s hunt for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title in Cameroon, reports Completesports.com.

Awoniyi is favoured to lead Nigeria’s attack in the absence of Victor Osimhen and Odion Ighalo.

The Union Berlin of Germany striker says he is ready to take up the responsibility and be the team’s main man in Cameroon.

“My strength is the power I put into my game, the fighting spirit in me, the willingness like you can always go as far as you want to go,” Awoniyi told NFF TV.

“I think that is my own greatest strength as an individual and in terms of football terms.”

“I think my strength is helping my teammates, and when I do all those dirty jobs and all those things, that is when my own finishing aspect will come into play.”

Preparations for the competition have not been the best due to the failure of European clubs to release players on time.

Awoniyi however believes the Super Eagles will do well in the competition.

“When it comes to football, you can’t just get on the pitch and believe that you’ll perform miracles,” Awoniyi stated.

“It’s all about what you have done before, and that is what will reciprocate in gameday.”

“But looking at the short moment and short time for most countries, I think everyone is aware of it already, and this is where our athleticism would come in.”

“As a player, this is when the experience, the maturity should set in from each individual this is my own belief as a person.”

“At the same time, there should be preparation, but now we know that the preparation is not there, but we still have little time to put things together, which is now, tomorrow and before the first game.”

“And I think it is still a little bit better than having nothing at all.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2021-afcon-awoniyi-ready-to-lead-super-eagles-attack/

Former Nigerian striker, Julius Aghahowa has disclosed that the absence of Odion Ighalo and Victor Osimhen remain a big blow to the Super Eagles at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.


Aghahowa stated this in an interview with Brila FM, where he expressed disappointment with the absence of the two strikers from the showpiece.

Recall that Ighalo, whose Saudi Arabian club Al Shabab, did not permit his participation in the AFCON 2021, joins fellow striker, Osimhen to miss the competition.


The former Shakhtar Donetsk star, who was Nigeria’s top goalscorer at the 2002 African Nations Cup, also noted that the duo of Taiwo Awoniyi and Sadiq Umar utilise the chance at their disposal in Cameroon.

“It is a blow to the national team that Odion Ighalo could not make it to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. And also the other player (Osimhen) that didn’t make it is also a blow for us.But as it is, we have to make do of what we have at the moment.


“Those players are professionals and they are playing in their teams in Europe. And that is what is expected of them when you are called to represent your country, you have to give in your best.

“You have to prove that you are worthy of that call. So now, the opportunity lies in the shoulder of Taiwo Awoniyi and Sadiq Umar.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/afcon-2021-missing-ighalo-osimhen-big-blow-for-eagles-aghahowa/

Super Eagles winger, Ahmed Musa has disclosed that the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are yet to offset the two-match allowances they owe the team ahead of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.


Musa made this known on Tuesday in a press conference in Abuja, where he stated that the entire squad will have a meeting with the Federation to deliberate on how to stick with a plan.


The former Leicester City star, who was part of the Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 AFCON title, also revealed that the team is prepared to make the nation proud in Cameroon.


“We are owed two games allowances by the NFF and we will be having a meeting when every player is in camp.

“The coaches, officials of the NFF and representatives of the players will meet to discuss, so we can stick with a plan.


“We have been together for a while now and we are ready for this tournament.”


Recall that Nigeria is pitted in Group D alongside Egypt, Guinea-Bissau and Sudan. Thy will commence their campaign against the Pharaohs on January 11.


Source: https://www.completesports.com/musa-nff-yet-to-offset-eagles-two-match-allowances/

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, on Tuesday night sent forth the Super Eagles to the Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Cameroon with a dinner.

The well attended event was held at the Transcorp Hilton hotel, Abuja.

The Minister of State for Finance, Budget and National Planning, Prince Clem Agba, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Alhaji Ismail Abubakar, the Director of Federations and Elite Athletes Development(FEAD), Dr Simon Ebhojiaye, Nigeria Football Federation(NFF)2nd Vice President, Alhaji Shehu Dikko, NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi and board members, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau and Yahaya Kwande were in attendance.

Also at the event were the Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr Femi Adeagbo, NFF Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire and NFF Director of Finance.


The Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare in his address to the team, read by Prince Clem Agba, said the Super Eagles are being sent forth as Nigerian ambassadors and worthy representatives to Cameroon as the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations tournament begins in a few days.

According to him, “Mr. President believes this Super Eagles squad has the skills and talents to excel at the AFCON in Cameroon and over 200 million Nigerians are fully behind you.

“Three times we have been Champions of Africa by winning the Africa Cup of Nations(AFCON), that was in 1980, 1994 and 2013, and many other times we have ended as losing finalists and bronze medalists but this time around we want you to strike gold in Cameroon on the 6th of February, 2022 when the tournament’s final match will be played.

“We have followed your preparations for this tournament and have seen the challenges that you have faced with the late release from your clubs, the Covid 19 protocols, injuries and other factors, we urge you not to be deterred by these and rather see these obstacles as stepping stones to your success and glory. We are also appealing to you to demonstrate that Nigerian spirit of determination, focus, resilience, discipline and conquest on and off the pitch.”

Dare also urged the players to have self belief and trust in the coaching crew led by Augustine Eguavoen.

“You have to believe in yourselves, be confident in your own abilities and show trust in your coaches and officials.

“As you carry the hopes and aspirations of millions of Nigerians, be assured of the support of the Federal Government.

“Be patriotic, defend the green and white of Nigeria, fight for her pride and honour like the true soldiers and warriors that you are and this nation will
celebrate you further upon your return,” The Minister added.

In his own remarks, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Alhaji Ismail Abubakar thanked the Super Eagles for their patriotism and said the dinner was the Ministry’s ‘little’ effort at encouraging them to giving their best and excelling at the biennial continental football showpiece.

Nigeria’s campaign in Cameroon begins on the 11th of January, 2022 against Egypt in Garoua.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/fg-sends-forth-super-eagles-as-president-buhari-urges-team-to-soar-in-cameroon/

Leicester City duo Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi, William Troost-Ekong, Kenneth Omeruo, Alex Iwobi are among nine players who have arrived the Super Eagles Abuja camp for the 2021 AFCON.

Also currently in camp are the quartet of Ola Aina, Frank Onyeka, Semi Ajayi and Kelechi Nwakali.

The current arrivals means 23 players are now in camp ahead of the continental showpiece in Cameroon.

Also Read: ‘Ighalo Unreliable, Not The Kind Of Player Newcastle Need’ –Ex-England International Warns


Meanwhile, five players are still being expected to join the rest of the squad.

The players are Odion Ighalo, Jamilu Collins, Tyrone Ebuehi, Joseph Aribo and Samuel Chukwueze.

And according to the team’s media officer Babafemi Raji, hopefully the five players will be in camp today.

Super Eagles players currently in camp:

Goalkeepers:

Francis Uzoho (AC Omonia, Cyprus); John Noble (Enyimba FC); Daniel Akpeyi (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa); Maduka Okoye (Sparta Rotterdam, The Netherlands)

Defenders:

Chidozie Awaziem (Alanyaspor FC, Turkey); Kenneth Omeruo (CD Leganes, Spain); Oluwasemilogo Ajayi (West Bromwich Albion, England); William Ekong (Watford FC, England); Olaoluwa Aina (Torino FC, Italy); Zaidu Sanusi (FC Porto, Portugal); Olisa Ndah (Orlando Pirates, South Africa)

Midfielders:

Frank Onyeka (Brentford FC, England); Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England); Chidera Ejuke (CSKA Moscow, Russia); Kelechi Nwakali (SD Huesca, Spain)

Forwards:

Ahmed Musa (Fatih Karagumruk, Turkey); Henry Onyekuru (Olympiacos FC, Greece); Moses Simon (FC Nantes, France); Sadiq Umar (UD Almeria, Spain); Taiwo Awoniyi (Union Berlin, Germany); Alex Iwobi (Everton FC, England); Peter Olayinka (SK Slavia Praha, Czech Republic)

Five players expected:

Jamilu Collins (SC Padeborn 07, Germany); Tyrone Ebuehi (Venezia FC, Italy); Joseph Ayodele-Aribo (Glasgow Rangers, Scotland); Samuel Chukwueze (Villarreal FC, Spain); Odion Jude Ighalo (Al-Shabab Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2021-afcon-update-ndidi-iwobi-troost-ekong-iheanacho-five-others-arrive-23-players-now-in-camp/

Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has linked up with his teammates in camp ahead of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, reports Completesports.com.

Musa arrived the team’s camp in Abuja on Monday afternoon.

The Fatih Karagumruk of Turkey forward’s arrival increased the number of players in camp to 14.

More players are expected in the team’s camp before their departure to Cameroon.
The players and their officials are expected to leave for Garoua, Cameroon on Wednesday.

14 players are still expected in the Super Eagles’ camp and they will begin their AFCON campaign against Egypt at the Roumde Adjia Stadium on January 11.

They will also face Sudan and Guinea-Bissau in their other Group D fixtures.

The 14 Players In Camp

Francis Uzoho, Daniel Akpeyi, John Noble, Maduka Okoye, Moses Simon, Sadiq Umar, Chidozie Awaziem, Zaidu Sanusi, Peter Olayinka, Olisa Ndah, Taiwo Awoniyi, Chidera Ejuke , Henry Onyekuru, Ahmed Musa

Source: https://www.completesports.com/super-eagles-camp-swells-with-musas-arrival/

Nigeria star Odion Ighalo is one of a number of strikers Newcastle United are looking at ahead of the January transfer window.

Ighalo, who has had previous spells in the Premier League with Watford and Manchester United, is currently playing for Al Shabab in Saudi Arabia.

Al Shabab have informally asked Ighalo if he would be interested should Newcastle come in for him, and Sky Sports News has been told he would seriously consider a move if contact is made.

Ighalo is the joint top scorer in the Saudi Professional League this season with nine goals.

He moved to the Middle East from Chinese side Shanghai Shenhua after his loan deal at Old Trafford came to an end earlier this year.

The 32-year-old’s contract at Al Shabab expires in the summer of 2023.

He scored 40 goals in 100 appearances for Watford between 2014 and 2017 and netted five times in 23 games for United during his year-long spell at the club between January 2020 and Janaury 2021.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/newcastle-united-interested-in-ighalo/

Genk striker Paul Onuachu has been ruled out of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in another major blow to Nigeria’s chances of making a huge impact at the competition.

Onuachu picked up a hamstring injury in Genk’s 1-1 home draw against Royal Antwerp on Sunday.

The former FC Midtylland star had opened scoring for Genk in the first half before the injury.

The 27-year-old was replaced by Ike Ugbo 20 minutes from time after picking up the injury.

The forward is now expected to spend around a month on the sidelines as a result of the setback.

Watford midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo has already been ruled out of the AFCON finals in Cameroon and there are still doubts over Victor Osimhen’s participation.

Interim head coach Austine Eguavoen is expected to release his provisional list for the competition this week.

The Super Eagles will begin their campaign in Cameroon against the Phraohs of Egypt on January 11.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/onuachu-ruled-out-of-afcon-2021/

Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy’s priority is to sell Dele Alli in January.

The Telegraph says Spurs boss Antonio Conte has consented to Alli’s departure in January.

Levy wants a fee for the midfielder, whose last England cap came in 2019.

However, a loan with an option or obligation to buy could be accepted if a buyer cannot be found.

Conte promised he would give Alli a chance to prove he should have a more regular spot in the Tottenham side following his appointment last month.

However, the former MK Dons ace has seemingly failed to impress the Italian enough.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/tottenham-hotspur-ready-to-sell-dele-alli/

Egyptian Football Association (EFA) president Ahmed Megahed has revealed that national team coach Carlos Queiroz will be sacked before the end of his contract if he does not satisfy a certain condition.

Nine games into his tenure as Egypt manager, Portugese coach Queiroz faces the risk of losing his job if the Pharoahs fail to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The seven-time African champions are among the 10 African teams that advanced from the group stage of qualification to the play-off round for the World Cup.

Five spots are up for grabs for African nations at the showpiece, with the play-off draw set be conducted on 26 January 2022.

The draw had initially been scheduled for 18 December, but following a CAF Extraordinary Assembly, it was decided that it should be pushed back to January next year.

In that meeting, members also agreed that the seeding of teams would be based on the January 2022 FIFA rankings, whereby the five highest-ranked nations will be drawn against the five unseeded sides.

As it stands, Egypt is the sixth highest-ranked African country in the world, with Senegal, Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria and Nigeria ahead of them.

EFA president Megahed has now revealed that Queiroz will be shown the door if he fails to guide the north African giants to the global tournament.

“Queiroz’s contract with the national team ends by the end of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar; if we fail to qualify, the contract is automatically terminated,” Megahed said, per KingFut.

“If it was up to me, I’d offer Queiroz a new contract that ends in 2026, I’ll recommend that to whoever comes after me.

“The main reason Queiroz came to Egypt is to qualify for the World Cup, but with the performance, I am seeing right now, I believe we can win the Africa Cup of Nations.”

Meanwhile, Queiroz will hope to guide his side to the final of the 2021 FIFA Arab Cup, when they face Tunisia in today’s semi-finals.

They will take on the Super Eagles in their Group D opener at next year’s AFCON.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/egypts-head-coach-queiroz-faces-sack/

Former Nigeria coach, Gernot Rohr believes the current squad of the Super Eagles have what it takes to be successful at the forthcoming 2021 Africa Cup of Nations.


Rohr, who was sacked on Sunday by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has been in charge of the three –time African champions for the past 64 months, and is Nigeria’s longest-serving manager.


The German tactician was replaced by Augustine Eguavoen as the interim coach of the Super Eagles.

Eguaveon will now take charge of the team as it begins preparations for the 33rd Africa Cup of Nations taking place in Cameroon from January 9 to February 6, 2022.

However, reacting to the chances of the team at the AFCON tournament, Rohr told AFP that he’s convinced the team will have a good outing at the bi-annual tournament in Cameroon.


“It’s a huge frustration, but I don’t want to argue, it’s not my style. I’m convinced that they will have a very good CAN because the team is in place and this very united group is ready for the challenges that await it.”


“I’m going to have a hard time doing without these great players and this very united staff, but the environment is not always favourable, we cannot control everything.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/afcon-2021-rohr-tips-super-eagles-to-be-successful/

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Amaju Pinnick has disclosed that the decision to sack Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr was to prevent a major disaster from happening to the senior national team.


He made this known in an interview with Channels Television on Monday, where he said that the NFF gave the German tactician all the necessary support to succeed with the team.

Recall that Rohr’s contract was terminated on Sunday by the NFF.

Augustine Eguavoen was immediately appointed to take charge of the Super Eagles on an interim basis.

The former Delta State Sports administrator also confirmed that the NFF was owing Rohr for some months, saying the lack of discipline among the players was one of the major setbacks in the team.


“He (Rohr) happens to be the longest-serving manager of the Super Eagles. We gave him all the support,” said Pinnick who was a guest on Sunrise Daily. “But we didn’t want to wait for a disaster to happen before parting ways. The last two games were very tough games for us.


“It wasn’t an individual decision; it was a collective decision by the entire executive committee. We were winning our games … there are a lot of things we took into cognisance. When you part ways, you don’t want to start ascribing blames; you just let it go and face the future with renewed hope and renewed zeal.”


“We did everything that we could, but one major factor was that discipline in the team is lost practically. In the dressing room, discipline in the team was at its lowest edge and once you remove discipline, that foundation in the team has cracked,” he said.


“Players now talk back at you, players believe that they are indispensable. A lot of factors that will now militate against the team. We are only owing about two matches of all the matches they played in both AFCON qualifiers and World Cup qualifiers.


“For Gernot Rohr, I know we paid him for about five months. We were owing him for a couple of months, then we cleared about five months.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/pinnick-why-nff-decided-to-sack-rohr/

Samuel Chukwueze’s Villarreal have been drawn against Premier League champions Manchester City in the Champions League last-16 knockout stage.

Unai Emery’s side will host the first leg at the Estadio de la Ceramica, before travelling to the Etihad Stadium for the reverse fixture.

It is the second time the Yellow Submarine will be facing an English team in the competition this season having played against Manchester United in the group stage.

Paris Saint-Germain will be up against Manchester United in the standout fixture of the round.

The game will see Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo face each other again.

Ronaldo returned to Old Trafford after leaving Juventus while Messi departed Barcelona to move to Paris.

The duo faced off in the group stage of the Champions League last season as Juventus played Barcelona.

Holders Chelsea will face Ligue 1 champions Lille in another fixture.

The last-16 ties will be split across different weeks, with the first legs taking place on February 15-16 and February 22-23.

The second legs are then on March 8-9 and March 15-16.

Full draw:

Benfica vs Real Madrid

Villarreal vs Man City

Atletico vs Bayern

Salzburg vs Liverpool

Inter vs Ajax

Sporting vs Juventus

Chelsea Vs Lille

PSG Vs Man United

Source: https://www.completesports.com/ucl-draw-chukwuezes-villarreal-face-man-city-in-round-16-psg-play-man-united/

Manchester United’s interim manager Ralf Rangnick has reportedly identified six players he feels should be axed by the club.

Rangnick is only in charge for the next sixth months before he takes on a consultancy role with the club from next season.

However, the 63-year-old is now looking to stamp his own authority on the squad by offloading players and possibly bringing in a couple new faces.

According to The Mirror United have given the German a £100million budget in January transfer window, but new arrivals will also see some players leave.

The report claims Edinson Cavani is likely to be on his way out as he heads into the final six months of his contract, along with Paul Pogba who is yet to make a decision on his future.

Midfielders Donny van de Beek and Jesse Lingard has struggled for game time this season and have also been included on the short-list, with the latter being linked with West Ham United.

Anthony Martial and Diogo Dalot have also been mentioned, as both players have fallen down the pecking order in the squad this season and could leave in search of regular game time.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/rangnick-identifies-six-players-to-offload-at-man-united/

With just weeks to the commencement of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, former Nigerian midfielder, Henry Nwosu has admonished the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) to be mindful of their decision to sack Gernot Rohr as Super Eagles coach.

The performance of the Super Eagles in the just concluded group stage of the World Cup qualifiers has called into question the tactical nous of its German tactician. The team put up displays that left much to be desired, with a large section of the fans demanding that the manager be relieved of his duties.

However, in an interview with Completesports.com, Nwosu stated that sacking Rohr may jeopardise Nigeria’s chances of making an appreciable performance at AFCON 2021.

The 1980 AFCON winner also noted that the NFF should be more concern on the preparation of the team for the tournament.

“Although I am not impressed with the display of the Super Eagles in recent games under Gernot Rohr, however, that doesn’t warrant the Nigeria Football Federation to call for his sack when the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations is just around the corner.

“Come to think of it, will sacking Rohr now make the team win the AFCON title? The truth is, this is not the best time to embark on such decision. Such decision may affect the players psychologically in terms of performance considering the fact that the players are more connected to him.”

Now in his fifth year in charge, Rohr, a former Germany international defender, has led the Super Eagles in 54 international matches, which makes him the country’s longest serving coach.

L
In the 54 games handled, Rohr recorded victory in 28 of those matches, a tally some feel is below par going by the abundance of talents at his disposal.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/exclusive-sacking-rohr-may-jeopardise-eagles-afcon-2021-chances-nwosu/

Super Eagles Striker Odion Ighalo has disclosed that he was offered Victor Osimhen’s number 9 shirt by a top NFF official when he was making his second return to the team.


Ighalo made this startling revelation in an interview with ESPN, where he stated that he declined the jersey number and requested for any number available.


The former Man United striker made a comeback to the Super Eagles since 2019 in the team’s 1-1 draw against Cape Verde in the final Group match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.


He said, “A top NFF official told me I could have the number nine jersey back, and I told him no.


“I had left it. Osimhen is using it now and coming back, I’m going to play with any jersey number.”


“I told them to give me any jersey available. I can play with my bare skin for Nigeria, I’m a patriotic Nigerian. If it means me playing without a shirt in this team, I’m going to play. It’s not the shirt that score the goals.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/i-was-offered-osimhens-number-9-shirt-ighalo/

Sergio Ramos has picked Lionel Messi ahead of his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo for the 2021 Ballon d’Or award.

Both Messi and Ronaldo are among a 30-man short released by organiser France Football for the award.

While Messi, who is the current holder, is gunning for his seventh title, Ronaldo will hope to make it six wins.

Aside Messi and Ronaldo, other top stars in the running for this year’s award include Neymar, Kevin de Bruyne, Robert Lewandowski, Mohamed Salah, Jorginho, Luis Suarez among others.


And ahead of today’s announcement of the 2021 recipient, Ramos said he would like to see the Argentina star emerge winner.
“Yes, of course I’m going to defend the guys in my team,” he told ESPN.

“I wish him all the luck in the world.”

Meanwhile, both Ramos and Messi finally got to play together for Paris Saint-Germain at the weekend after more than a decade of being on opposing sides at Madrid and Barcelona respectively.

Ramos made his first appearance for PSG on Sunday in the 3-1 win against Saint-Etienne after missing the first 18 games with his new club due to a calf injury.

Messi, bagged a hat-trick of assists as he set up two goals for Marquinhos and one for Angel Di Maria to help his side to the win.

And commenting about playing alongside Messi, the 2010 World Cup winner said:”He’s in good shape, and I think he’s the kind of player who really makes a difference.

“He’s a unique player and it’s a privilege to have him in the team.

“I think that, bit by bit, each of us is going to bring our own quality to make Paris Saint-Germain even greater and achieve the things we want to achieve.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/ramos-backs-messi-ahead-of-former-teammate-ronaldo-for-ballon-dor-award/

Super Eagles striker, Emmanuel Dennis netted his 5th goal of the campaign as Watford lost 4-2 to Leicester City in Sunday’s Premier League game.

Dennis, who was making his 11th appearance in the colours of Watford, netted in the 61st minute before he was substituted by Ashley Fletcher in the 71st minute.

Leicester City opened the floodgate of goals in the 16th minute through James Maddison before Joshua King leveled parity in the 30th minute.

However, Jamie Vardy netted a brace for the Foxes before Ademola Lookman grabbed the fourth goal in the 68th minute., his first goal in the Premier League this ongoing season.

Super Eagles midfielder, Wilfred Ndidi had a brilliant performance as he dominated the midfield with his combative display for Leicester City.


In the other game, Frank Onyeka played all 90 minutes as Brentford defeated Everton 1-0 on Sunday.

The Nigerian international won a penalty that was converted by Ivan Toney in the 24th minute to send the home supporters into frenzy.

He was yellow carded in the 43rd minute for a harsh challenge.

Meanwhile, Alex Iwobi played the entire 90 minute of the game but could not save Everton from defeat. The win move Brentford to 12th place on the log while Everton sit 14th.

In addition, Manchester City saw off West Ham 2-1 in the Premier League on Sunday, with goals from Ilkay Gundogan and Fernandinho settling a snowy contest at the Etihad Stadium before Manuel Lanzini’s impressive consolation strike late on.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/epl-dennis-lookman-on-target-onyeka-stars-in-brentfords-win-vs-everton/

Victor Osimhen has been ruled out of action for three months after undergoing surgery on his cheekbone and eye socket, Completesports.com reports.

Serie A leaders Napoli disclosed this in a statement released on their official website on Tuesday.

“On Tuesday morning, Victor Osimhen was operated on his cheekbone and eye socket by Gianpaolo Tartaro, who was assisted by Dr Mario Santagata with Dr Raffaele Canonico also present.

“Titanium plates and screws were used in the operation.

“The player is doing well and will remain under observation for the next few days.

“Osimhen is expected to return to action in three months.”

Following the report by Napoli, Osimhen will now miss the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

The tournament will run from 9th January to 6th February, 2022.

So far this season, the 22-year-old has scored nine goals and provided two assists in 14 games in all competitions.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/update-osimhen-out-for-three-months-after-undergoing-surgery/

Nigeria forward David Okereke can’t hide his excitement following Venezia’s away win at Bologna last weekend, reports Completesports.com.

Okereke scored the decisive goal in the second half to help Venezia secure all three points in the game.

“We knew we would suffer in the match and we actually did,” the striker told his club’s official website.


“But we fought together and in the end we prevailed. We are improving and growing game by game.”

The 24-year-old striker has now scored four goals in 12 Serie A appearances for his club this season.

The former Nigeria youth international is loan at Venezia from Belgian Pro League outfit Club Brugge.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/okereke-relishes-venezias-win-at-bologna/

Chelsea legend John Terry believes Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be relieved that he is gone as Manchester United manager.

Solskjaer has been a dead man walking for several weeks, with his team’s insipid displays and results eventually getting him the sack.

As the Red Devils prepare to take on Villarreal on Tuesday with Michael Carrick in temporary charge of the team, Terry will believe Solskjaer is relieved at the ordeal being over.

He told Sky Sports News: “When you are Man United like Ole was it is difficult to take. It will hurt him for sure.
“But it is a results business, we all know that going into it. It is really sad it has happened but unfortunately it’s part and parcel of the job.

“It is difficult. Ole is Man United through and through but when you don’t get those results it is difficult.

“Yesterday when you see him walking off, apologising to the supporters, it is not a good place to be.

“In a way, he will be half-relieved too to be away from it.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/solskjaer-will-be-relieved-after-manchester-united-sacking-terry/

The Nigeria Football Federation have lined up former Serbian national team coach Mladen Krstajic as replacement for Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr, Completesports.com reports.

According to various sources, Rohr’s exit should be finalised this week and the 47-year-old, who managed Serbia at the 2018 World Cup, could be the man to replace him.

Top NFF officials are set to meet his representatives this week to finalise details of his contract.

Krstajic is a free agent after leaving his post as head coach of Serbian club TSC last month.


The former defender was capped 59 times by his country and scored two goals.

He also played for German clubs Werder Bremen and Schalke 04.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/serbian-mladen-krstajic-lined-up-to-replace-rohr/

Victor Osimhen has been diagnosed with a fractured eye socket and cheekbone and will undergo surgery in Milan after a clash of heads with Inter defender Milan Skriniar.

Napoli disclosed this in a statement on their Twitter handle.

Following the clash of heads, Osimhen was visibly swollen around the left eye and cheekbone, and was able to walk off the pitch, albeit clearly dazed.

He was taken to the San Raffaele hospital for tests, which showed multiple displaced fractures of the left cheekbone and orbital bone.


And giving update on the injury, Napoli wrote:”Medical tests on Victor Osimhen after Napoli’s clash with Inter showed that the player has sustained a fractured eye socket and cheekbone.

“The forward will undergo surgery in the next few days and will remain under observation in hospital in Milan overnight.”

Initial reports suggest that Osimhen could be out of action for at least a month.

It is devastating news, especially as Osimhen is also set to leave Napoli in January to play for Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

He is their top scorer this season with five Serie A goals and four in the Europa League.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/update-osimhen-to-undergo-surgery-after-suffering-fractured-eye-socket-cheekbone/

Manchester United have reportedly contacted Leicester City gaffer Brendan Rodgers over their vacant managerial position.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was sacked on Sunday morning following Man United’s heavy 4-1 defeat at the hands of Watford.

The result came on the back of humiliating defeats by rivals Manchester City and Liverpool and proved to be the final straw for the Norwegian, who has been in charge since 2018.

Man United confirmed on Sunday that Michael Carrick will take temporary charge of the club while they search for an interim boss to assume control for the remainder of the season.

As reported by Mirror Sport, United are then hoping that Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino can be convinced to leave France for the Red Devils.

According to The Sun, United have also made contact with Rodgers as they look to keep their options open.

They are said to be prepared to pay his £8million compensation fee to the Foxes.
Rodgers was recently asked about possibly managing United before Solskjaer was sacked and played down the proposal.

“Firstly, it’s really disrespectful for you to ask the question when there is a manager in place – a good manager and a good man – who’s working at the club,” the Northern Irishman said.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/man-united-contact-rodgers-prepared-to-pay-8m-compensation-fee/

Liverpool could be without nine first-team players due to an injury crisis at Anfield ahead of this weekend’s Premier League tie with Arsenal.

Defenders Andy Robertson and Joe Gomez and midfielders Naby Keita, James Milner, Jordan Henderson and Curtis Jones have all been struggling with injury.

Roberto Firmino has a hamstring problem, with Harvey Elliott still working his way back from the broken ankle he suffered earlier this season.

Belgian striker Divock Origi is also a doubt for the weekend after picking up an injury while on international duty.

Sadio Mane is fine though after suffering a minor issue with Senegal.

Meanwhile, Arsenal captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will be fit for the trip to Liverpool according to reports.

Arsenal fans feared the striker would be absent after he missed Gabon’s World Cup qualifier against Egypt on Tuesday. However, there is no fitness concern for the 32-year-old.

According to Goal, it was always the plan for Aubameyang to not play both of Gabon’s matches in the international break.

He scored the only goal from the penalty in the 1-0 win over Libya last Friday.

He is already back at Arsenal’s London Colney base and was part of Wednesday’s training session.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/liverpool-face-injury-crisis-ahead-arsenal-clash/

Victor Osimhen says the Super Eagles will give their all to secure a place at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, reports Completesports.com.

The Super Eagles zoomed into the playoff round following a 1-1 home draw against the Blue Sharks of Cape Verde on Tuesday.


The West Africans finished top of Group C with 13 points, two more points than Cape Verde.

Osimhen, who scored Nigeria’s only goal of the game insists the team target now is to secure a place in the mundial.


“It was important we made this first big step,” the Napoli forward said after the game.

“With the quality of the players we have, we go on to get to the World Cup.”

The Super Eagles will know their opponent in the playoff round on December 18.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/osimhen-super-eagles-will-fight-hard-to-secure-world-cup-spot/

Gernot Rohr says the Super Eagles 1-1 draw against Cape Verde in Tuesday’s Group C 2022 World Cup qualifier feels like a win for his team.

The Eagles got off to a perfect start after Victor Osimhen opened scoring under one minute after a poor clearance by a Cape Verde player.


But the visitors equalized on six minutes from a corner through Stopira.

The draw saw the three-time African champions qualify into the play-off round with 13 points.

And fielding questions after the game, Rohr praised his players for holding out after failing to get the winner.


“First of all, a draw can be like a victory, for today because we wanted to qualify and knew that a draw means qualification. It was not an easy game because Cape Verde are a good technical team and they scored in the moment we believed we had the match in our hands.

“But we missed a lot of chances in the first half especially, we deserve to score a second goal but it didn’t come so we had to defend and the players did it well.”

Odion Ighalo made his first appearance since coming out of international retirement as he paired Osimhen in attack before being withdrawn.

And Rohr feels he needs time due to the fact that he has been away from the team for over one year.

“We need a little patience with Ighalo. He was not with us for more than one year and we need time to find the harmony and I think he did some interesting things with Osimhen who will grow and learn a lot.

“Now for the AFCON we can prepare, today was like a final, very special game so what we ask for is little patience, give us a little time to work on the two of them then the goals will come again.”

And when asked where the Eagles need to improve ahead of next year’s AFCON and the play-off in March, he said:”The improvement I want to see in my team is for them to exploit their scoring opportunities, to be more effective offensively.

“Also I want to see them play quicker from behind it’s still too slow from behind for me, I want to have quicker football with one, two touches, our central defenders still take much time to bring the ball forward, So we have to work on it, we had 13 points from six matches which is not bad.

” So after this group stage we can be optimistic, now we have the time to prepare for the AFCON, some of our players are coming back from injuries , Ndidi, Chukwueze. So let’s give our players time to be better.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-draw-against-cape-verde-like-a-win-for-eagles-rohr/

Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr has named Odion Ighalo in his starting line-up for today’s 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Blue Sharks of Cape Verde, Competesports.com reports.

Ighalo, who is making a return to the team after over two years absence will pair Napoli forward Victor Osimhen in attack.

Leicester City’s Kelechi Iheanacho dropped to the bench for the experienced striker.

Rohr sticked with the same 3-5-2 formation he used in the Super Eagles last two games against Central African Republic and Liberia.

Watford new boy Maduka Okoye kept his place in goal, while the trio of Chidozie Awaziem, Leon Balogun and William Troost-Ekong also remain the central defenders.

Versatile Moses Simon and Jamilu Collins will once again operate as wing-backs.

Wilfred Ndidi, Joe Aribo and Alex Iwobi will take charge of the midfield.

Super Eagles X1 Vs Cape Verde

Okoye

Awaziem, Balogun, Troost-Ekong

Simon , Collins

Ndidi, Aribo, Iwobi

Osimhen, Ighalo

By Adeboye Amosu

Pix by Ganiyu Yusuf

Source: https://www.completesports.com/2022-wcq-ighalo-starts-for-super-eagles-vs-cape-verde/

Super Eagles defender, William Troost-Ekong has revealed how his mother wept when she was told by Tottenham youth coach, Matt de that he would never make it as a footballer.

Ekong, who is expected to be in the Super Eagles line up against Cape Verde in today’s 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, told Baller Talk’s Femi Ilesanmi, James Alabi and Doe E that the news got his mum upset.

The Watford defender said that those degrading words from the coach helped him become what he is today.

“I remember one time he had a meeting with my mom, I think it was after my first year as a scholar and he was like I’m going to be really honest to my mom. Will’s miles off it and at this rate I can’t see him playing even non-league football, League Two, League One.

“I felt like crying and I remember seeing my mom , my mom was upset, I’ve never seen her like that because she backed me against my dad’s will to sign for Spurs at the time.

“I came to England originally to go to school, I went to boarding school which is thoughtful, so was already like a big deal that she did that for me, and then all of a sudden after one year, she’s hearing like this is not really working out so that was the biggest motivation.

“From that moment on, I was like Will you need to sort yourself out and that was the chip on my shoulder every time to be like I am going to show everyone, I’m going to show everyone.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/my-mum-cried-when-tottenham-youth-coach-told-her-i-cant-make-it-as-footballer-ekong/

Former Nigerian forward, Victor Ikpeba has urged the Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr to play Odion Ighalo and Victor Osimhen in the attack against Cape Verde in the 2022 World Cup qualifiers at the Teslim Balogun Stadium today.

The home side come into the game on the back of a routine 2-0 away victory over Liberia on Saturday. Victor Osimhen and Ahmed Musa scored penalties in either half to help the Super Eagles secure maximum point.

This will be the third meeting between the two sides. Nigeria have one win to their name while the other game ended in a stalemate.

Ikpeba, during Monday Night Football Show on Supersports, said that the German tactician must pair Ighalo and Osimhen to unsettle the Cape Verdian defenders.

“I think Ighalo’s recall will be a wake up call for the young lads in the Super Eagles. However, Gernot Rohr can decide to play both Ighalo and Osimhen in the attack due to their different features. One is tall and the other is strong on the ball due to his physical nature.

“The Super Eagles must score early enough to be able to control the possession of the game. This will also help to relax the nerves of the players if they score first.”

Source: https://www.completesports.com/rohr-must-play-ighalo-osimhen-together-to-subdue-cape-verde-ikpeba/

The Blue Sharks of Cape Verde have arrived Lagos ahead of Tuesday’s 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Competesports.com reports.

According to a meassge posted on the Cape Verde Football Federation Intagram page, the players and their officials flew into Lagos on Sunday night.

They will train at the venue of the game, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos on Monday morning.

The Blue Sharks defeated Central African Republic 2-1 at home on Saturday to set up a tantalizing final day clash with the Super Eagles.


Nigeria top Group C on 12 points, two points more than the Blue Sharks.

The Blue Sharks need a win to advance to the playoff round of the qualifiers.

Source: https://www.completesports.com/cape-verde-in-town-set-to-train-at-teslim-balogun-stadium-ahead-eagles-clash/