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Leicester City manager, Claude Puel has heaped plaudits on Nigeria forward, Kelechi Iheanacho after he hit the back of the net in the club’s 1-1 pre-season friendly draw against Spanish club, Valencia on Wednesday, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Iheanacho opened scoring for the Foxes in the 11th minute before Daniel Parejo levelled scores for the visitors few minutes later.

It was his second pre-season goal for the former Premier League champions after he netted in the club’s 2-1 defeat against Italian outfit, Udinese last week.

Puel was pleased with the way his players acquitted themselves against Valencia, not least Iheanacho, who struggled for regular playing time at the club last season.

“I think he (Kelechi Iheanacho) came back with a good mentality, of course he cannot play for a long time at the moment with good fitness levels,” Puel told the club’s official website.

“I’m happy about the mentality of the players. They’ve come back with a good spirt and with a fighting spirit.

“I’m happy about this, but we needed to make attention and protect them with rotation and to work on their fitness step by step. We will see what’s happened. I was happy also, for example about Demarai Gray.

“He played as striker in the last friendly games, he made fantastic things. We have good players, good quality, good young players, good balance between experienced players and young players. I hope we can continue this good work and keep the good togetherness.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/leicester-city-manager-puel-hails-goal-hero-iheanacho/

Victor Moses is expected to make his second pre-season appearance for Chelsea when they take on Arsenal in Wednesday’s International Champions Cup clash at the Aviva stadium in Dublin reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

The Nigerian international, Moses was subbed on his his first appearance against Inter Milan last Saturday.

Moses was among the 23-man Chelsea squad that touched down in Dublin Tuesday night ahead of the fixture against the Gunners who are expected to parade Alex Iwobi as well.

Moses’ teammate Ola Aina was however left out of the squad for the game fueling speculation over his future at the club.

He also missed the Blues clash against Inter Milan in Nice, France last Saturday.

He spent last season on loan at English Championship side, Hull City.

But Tammy Abraham was included. The former Swansea striker has made two substitute appearances in pre-season for Chelsea.

Maurizio Sarri’s side opened their pre-season campaign with a 1-0 win over Perth Glory in Australia before beating Inter Milan 5-4 on penalties, after a 1-1 draw, in Nice on Saturday.

Chelsea squad for Arsenal clash

Goalkeepers: Marcin Bulka,Willy Caballero,Rob Green.

Defenders: Davide Zappacosta,Cesar Azpilicueta,Andreas Christensen,Ethan Ampadu,David Luiz, Toni Rudiger, Marcos Alonso,Emerson Palmieri.

Midfielders: Cesc Fabregas,Jorginho,Tiemoue Bakayoko,Ross Barkley,Lucas Piazon,Ruben Loftus-Cheek,Danny Drinkwater.

Forwards: Pedro,Victor Moses,Callum Hudson-Odoi,Alvaro Morata, Tammy Abraham.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/2018-icc-moses-in-aina-out-as-chelsea-land-in-dublin-for-arsenal-clash/

Super Eagles stars, Victor Moses and Alex Iwobi will bid to outshine each other when their respective clubs, Chelsea and Arsenal clash in a pre-season International Champions Cup friendly match at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin today (Wednesday) reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

The duo recently linked up with their clubs after they were granted extended break following their participation at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

The two players will also play under new managers, Maurizio Sarri for Chelsea and Unai Emery for Arsenal, in the new season. The Nigerians will look to cement a starting berth in their respective teams.

Moses came in as a 74th minute substitute for Spanish winger, Pedro in Chelsea’s 5-4 penalty shoot-out win against Italian club, Inter Milan last Saturday in his first pre- season game for the club.

Iwobi’s first pre-season outing for the Gunners was against French club, Paris Saint-Germain last week Friday which they won 5-1.

Chelsea who will look to win their first silverware under Sarri when they battle Premier League champions, Manchester City for the the Community Shield on Sunday will open their campaign in the new season with an an away game against Huddersfield next weekend.

Arsenal will entertain Manchester City at the Emirates Stadium in their Premier League opening fixture.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/moses-iwobi-clash-as-chelsea-arsenal-face-off-in-icc-pre-season-friendly/

Nigeria forward, Junior Ajayi is set to miss out of action for up to two months after sustaining a knee injury in Egytian club, Al Ahly’s CAF Champions League clash against Township Rollers on Saturday, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Ajayi was replaced by Islam Mohareb in the 44th minute as the Red Devils went on to win the encounter at the National Stadium, Gabrone , Botswana 1-0 courtesy of Salif Coulibaly’s 82nd minutes strike

Tests carried out under the supervision of Al Ahly’s team doctor, Khaled Mahmoud, according to a report on the club’s official website, confirmed a dislocation in Ajayi’s knee.

According to the diagnosis, the player will be out of action for four to seven weeks.

The former Shooting Stars striker will miss the start of the new Egyptain Premier League season as a result of the injury.

He will also miss Al Ahly’s remaining two CAF Champions League group stage games against Tunisian club, Esperance and Uganda’s KCCA Kampala.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ajayi-out-of-action-for-two-months-due-to-knee-injury/

Zamalek coach Christian Gross has left out Nigerian midfielder Marouf Yusuf from his 23-man squad for his side’s opening match of the 2018/19 Egyptian Premier League season against Petrojet on Tuesday reports[url] Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Yusuf’s name was also conspicuously missing in the 29-man squad ahead of the Egyptian Premier League season after he failed to sign a new five year deal offered him at the club

According to an Egyptian website, Kingfut, Yusuf wanted a two-year contract only, which made the negotiations came to an end.

The Nigerian is poised to leave the White Knights with Saudi side Al Wehda on the verge of announcing his capture on free transfer.

Moruf Yusuf joined the White Knights from fellow Egyptian side Ittihad El-Shorta in the summer of 2014 and since then he has played 83 matches for them, scoring twice and assisting 8 times.

The 23-year-old was part of the Zamalek team which achieved the domestic double in 2015, as well as winning Egypt Cup last season with the Whites.

Zamalek have finished last season in fourth place, while Petrojet came in 12th place, and both sides will aim to begin on the season on a high note on Tuesday.

Full Squad:

Goalkeepers: Mahmoud Gennesh, Emad El-Sayed, Omar Salah.

Defenders: Hamdi Nagguez, Hazem Emam, Mahmoud Hamdi “El-Wensh”, Mohamed Abdelghany, Mohamed Camacho, Bahaa Magdy, Ahmed Aboul-Fetouh.

Midfielders: Mohamed Hassan, Mahmoud Abdel Aziz, Mahmoud Abdel-Aaty “Dunga”, Mohamed Ibrahim, Ayman Hefny, Mahmoud Abdel Moneim ‘Kahraba’, Mostafa Fathi, Mohamed Antar, Abdullah Gomaa, Ibrahim Hassan.

Forwards: Kasongo Kabongo, Hamid Ahadad, Youssef Obama.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/yusuf-to-miss-for-petrojet-clash/

Nigeria forward ,Sadiq Umar, made his first appearance for Scottish outfit, Glasgow Rangers in the club’s 3-0 pre-season friendly match win against Wigan Athletic on Sunday, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

The young striker came in for Alfredo Morelos in the 54th minute, but was not able to register a goal in the game.

Sadiq is on loan at the former Scottish champions from Italian side, AS Roma.

He is now in line to make his first competitive appearance for the Gers in Thursday’s Europa League, second qualifying, second leg clash against Croatian club, Osijek.

Rangers won the first leg 1-0 and look set to move into next round.

Steven Gerrard’s men got their goals through Alfredo Morelos, Nikola Katic and Alex Bruce (own goal)

The emphatic victory now makes it four wins and two draws since Liverpool legend, Gerrad took charge of the club earlier this summer.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/sadiq-subbed-on-for-rangers-debut-in-pre-season-friendly-win-vs-wigan/

Enyimba head coach, Usman Abdallah, has attributed his side’s 2-0 defeat against Williamsville in the CAF Confederation Cup Group C encounter on Sunday to the poor physical condition of his players but is upbeat they will bounce back in subsequent games, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

The Peoples Elephant ceded leadership position in the group following the defeat, dropping to third on the log.

The two-time African champions have now conceded five goals in their two away fixtures without hitting the back of the net.

“We dominated during the first 20 minutes but then we lost because of the physical condition of the players,” Abdallah told reporters after the game.

“Our league has stopped and we are still trying to get in shape. It’s not over yet. We still have 2 more games to play.”

The Aba giants will face Mali’s Djoliba in their next game on August 19 in Bamako.

Their final group game is against CARA Brazzaville of Congo on August 28.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/enyimba-coach-rues-defeat-to-williamsville-backs-team-to-bounce-back/

Team Nigeria placed fifth at the third edition of the African Youth Games in Algiers reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].
From a total of 30 sports featured at the games, Nigeria took part in 17 events, namely, Football, Wrestling, Judo, Boxing, Handball, Table Tennis,Swimming, Badminton, Rowing, Volleyball, Gymnastics, Shooting, Tennis, Beach Volleyball, Basketball, Canoeing, Hockey, Cycling and Athletics.

Team Nigeria finished fifth behind Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia and Morocco at the end of the 2018 African Youth Games in Algiers.

According to the medals table from the organisers of the games Nigeria had a total of 103 medals with 29 gold, 32 silver and 42 bronze medals.

Team Egypt finish top of the medals table with 199 medals snatching 101 gold, 55 silver and 43 bronze.

Algeria finished on the second winning 226 medals, including 71 gold, 72 silver and 83 bronze just behind Egypt.

Tunisia occupied third position with 136 medals including 36 gold, 46 silver and 54 bronze while Morocco finished fourth with 106 medals including 29 gold, 37 silver and 40 bronze medals.

In the men’s wrestling, event Ebizimore Sariki (45kg), Lina Ozutu (48kg) Perediegha Ogidi (51kg), Kenechukwu Nnaemeka (65kg), Idowu Ladoja (110kg) won silver medal while Stephen Akintewe (60kg) and Ikechukwu Okafor (55kg) won bronze medals.

Sariki lost his final bout 4-0 to Abbes Houari from Algeria after beating Shaaban Abdalla of Egypt by 6-4 and Ghazouani Ayoub of Tunisia by 6-4.

Ozutu, competing in the 48kg lost in the final against Mohamed Benmehiriz of Egypt by 11-1 while Nnaemeka lost to Fathi Ismail by 3-0 in the 65kg final.

Ogidi lost 8-4 to Egypt’s Fouad Ahmed in the 51kg category to settle for silver; while Ladoja also lost to another Egyptian Khalil Ahmed in the 110kg gold medal event.

Tope defeated Pameli Harmalala of Madagascar to win a bronze in the 61kg men’s freestyle. Okafor also beat Mohamed Camara 7-2 points to win a bronze medal in the 55kg fight.

Mafia Edidiong Joseph and Opadeji Adedapo also won gold in the men’s 62kg and 69kg titles respectively.

In the women’s category, Morufat Folarin won gold in the women’s 44 kg, while her team-mate Agba Ebelechukwu also dominated the 48kg division winning gold as well.

Yusuf Islamiyat also won gold in the women’s 58kg event.

In the boxing event, Nigeria won two gold, two silver and two bronze medals. Joy Ojo competing in the 48kg division won gold in the female’s light fly while Adijat Gbadamosi (52kg) won the second gold in the female fly weight at the games.

Aminu Lawal (70kg) and Ubi Obono (75kg) won silver in the light middle and middle weight category respectively while Ezekiel Etukere (60kg) and Eguabor Desmond (57kg) in the light welter and feather weight won bronze.

In Football, Nigeria’s Under 15 national team, lost 3-1 to Morocco in the final. In the men’s handball event, Nigeria clinched the bronze medal after defeating Morocco by 24-17 points. In Hockey, Nigeria’s women’s hockey team lost 2-0 to Ghana in the quarterfinals.

In athletics, the country won three gold, two silver and two bronze.

Rosemary Chukwuma won two gold in the women’s 100m and 200m while Meyiwa Ine won the other gold in the men’s triple jump.

Ine won silver in the men’s long jump while Alaba Akintola won the second silver in the men’s 100m.

Iruoghene Okoro won bronze in the men’s 200m and while Sarah Oluigbo also placed third in the women’s 400m hurdles to win bronze as well.

In table tennis Esther Oribamise and Azeez Solanke won silver in the mixed doubles event while Oribamise grabbed bronze in the women’s singles. Oribamise and Solanke lost to Egyptian duo Youssef Abdel-Aziz and Marwa Alhodaby in the final of the event to win silver.

Solanke had finished fifth after he lost by Abdel-Aziz in the quarterfinals of the men’s singles while Oribamise who lost to Alhodaby in the semi-final of the women’s singles bounced back to defeat Mauritius’ Jalim Nandeshwaree in the bronze match. Oribamise will represent Nigeria at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games in Buenos Aires later in the year.

Nigeria’s male volleyball team also won gold in their event and qualified for the 2019 FIVB U-19 World Boys’ Championship in Iran.

Nigeria beat Egypt 3-2 to clinch the medal and qualification. They defeated Tunisia in the quarterfinals and Algeria in the semi-finals.

The African Youth Games targets the 14 to 18 age group and is planned to contribute to the development of African sport and to the growth of Olympic values.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/team-nigeria-place-5th-in-ayg-win-109-medals/

Tributes from Super Eagles players poured in for Carl Ikeme on Friday after the Nigeria international and Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper announced his retirement from football, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Ikeme called time on his football career after consulting medical experts following his battle against acute leukaemia.

The 32 year old had in July revealed that he was in “complete remission” after “a tough year and intense chemotherapy”.

Ikeme who kept six clean sheets in ten games for Nigeria and never lost a competitive game while in action for the Super Eagles posted a statement on Instagram thanking everyone: “After advice from the doctors I have taken the decision to retire.

“It’s not a sad day for me but one to look back with fondness and joy for being able to live my dream. I just want to thank everyone at @wolves for their support over the years. We have rode the good and bad times together, an I’m great-full to of been a part of the clubs history. I’m looking forward to catching up with everyone again soon and being back around the club and city!! Thank You!!!

“We are going to miss you, wish you luck brother ������,” Leicester City forward, Ahmed Musa, wrote on Instagram.

Chelsea defender, Kenneth Omeruo also admitted he would have loved to play more with the 32 year old who he regarded as a legend.

“I would have love to play with you more my bro @carlikeme ..But am happy you will be with us in good health.. You are a legend bro.. and am sure Nigerians will miss seeing you in the national team.. Good luck my brother and like u said, it’s not a sad day.. ❤ where is the retirement party do �����������,”Omeruo wrote also on Instagram.

Super Eagles vice-captain Ogenyi Onazi also wrote: “Thank God for your life and your health, this is most important bro ❤❤���� @carlikeme.”

Daniel Akpeyi who was one of the Super Eagles goalkeepers to the 2018 FIFA World Cup also wrote: “Thank God you got your life back bro, better things ahead.”

John Ogu added: “Thank God for restoring back you Health. And Good luck with your next Chapter. ❤❤❤.”

ikeme-super eagles-wolves-completesportsnigeria.com-csn

Victor Anichebe wrote in response to Ikeme’s post on Instagram: “One door closes and another opens. Good Luck with your next chapter. God bless.”

Ikeme’s former coach at Wolves Walter Zenga also wishes him well in his retirement.

“@carlikeme, was a big pleasure for me to have you in my time at @wolves … I wish for you all the best .. my thoughts always with you… big hug � #onceawolfalwaysawolf WZ,” Zenga wrote via his handle on Instagram walterzenga_official.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/super-eagles-players-pay-tribute-to-ikeme-on-retirement/

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme, has confirmed his retirement from professional football as a player, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The 32-year-old announced the news to his teammates before a training session at Compton on Friday morning.

The erstwhile Super Eagles goalkeeper also announced the touching news on his Twitter handle early Friday afternoon.

“Thank you for the support over the years . My last day as a footballer. But one I am happy and great full for !!! Thanks to everyone to do with @wolves and everyone in football I have met,” Ikeme tweeted on Friday.

The Wolves Academy product came to the decision after consultation with medical experts following his 12-month battle with acute leukaemia.

Last month Ikeme announced on Twitter that he was in complete remission from the disease after ‘a tough year and intense chemotherapy’.

The shot-stopper now intends to take some time off with his young family before embarking on life outside playing football.

Ikeme made 274 domestic career appearances in all competitions, with over 200 of them coming for Wolves, the club he joined in 2000 as a 14-year-old.

The stopper went on to win two promotions, and ten international caps for Nigeria, who honoured him at this summer’s World Cup by naming him as their 24th squad member.

Wolves’ executive chairman, Jeff Shi stated that they were sad to receive the news of the goalkeeper’s decision to quit football.

“Having been at the club since the age of 14, Carl is far more than just a player in our eyes – he is our brother and an important part of our family,” Shi told the club’s official website.

“When Carl came to tell us his news, yes there was sadness, but also great happiness to see him so healthy and hungry for the opportunities that lay ahead of him.

“Carl is strong, a fighter, something he has proven in his playing career and also during what has been a very challenging time for him, so I have no doubt he will be a success in whatever he does next.

“We wish Carl all the very best for the future, but remind him he will always remain a part of the Wolves family.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nigeria-goalkeeper-ikeme-announces-retirement-from-active-football-on-medical-grounds-thanks-everyone-for-support/

Falcontets head coach, Christopher Danjuma, has picked his final 21-woman list for the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in France, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The squad is made up of three goalkeepers, six defenders, seven midfielders and five strikers.

FC Robo forward, Rasheedat Ajibade, Saheed Adebisi, Monday Gift and Ucheibe Christy, the team’s top stars were included in the team.

Nigeria will battle Haiti, China and Germany in Group D at the competition.

The Falconets’ opening match is against perennial foes Germany (who beat Nigeria in the 2010 and 2014 Final matches) at the Stade de Marville in Saint-Malo on Monday, 6th August, before clashes with Haiti at the same venue on Thursday, 9th August and against China in Dinan/Léhon’s Stade de Clos Gastel on Monday, 13th August.

The team is currently in Austria for a 12-day training exercise ahead of the tournament.

They are expected to leave Austria on August 2nd for France.

FULL SQUAD

Goalkeepers [3]: Okeke Onyinyechukwu [Edo Queens]; Nnadozie Chiamaka [Rivers Angels]; Akarekor Rita [Sunshine Queens]

Defenders [6]: Ogbonna Glory (Ibom Angels]; Famuditi Oluwakemi Confluence Queens]; Duru Joy [Nasarawa Amazons]; Ologbosere Mary [Rivers Angels]; Sunday Opeyemi [Sunshine Queens]; Ezekiel Blessing [Rivers Angels];

Midfielders [7]: Saiki Mary [Rivers Angels]; Ucheibe Christy [Nasarawa Amazons]; Efih Peace [Edo Queens]; Saheed Adebisi [Bayelsa Queens]; Amoo Bashirat [Confluence Queens]; Igboamalu Grace [Nasarawa Amozons]; Odueke Taibat [Edo Queens];

Forwards[5]: Monday Gift [FC Robo]; Ajibade Rasheedat [FC Robo]; Imo Anam [Nasarawa Amazons]; Okeke Chidinma [FC Robo]; Bello Aishat [Nasarawa Amazons]

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/falconets-coach-danjuma-names-ajibade-gift-19-others-for-2018-fifa-u-20-womens-world-cup/

Super Eagles’ defender, Troost Ekong is now a father of a bouncing baby boy as his partner of five years put to bed on tuesday 24th July, 2018.

[url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] back in April reported that the defender was expecting a child with his partner just before the russia 2018 campaign.

Ekong who played an active role in the Super Eagles defence in Russia would have a cause to smile now despite his side crashing out of the world cup after losing to Argentina at the group stage.

The obviously delighted father, took to his social media handles to announce the birth of his son named Oscar. He shared a photo of him cuddling his son which of course, got a lot of congratulatory messages on his comment box especially from his co-players and notable celebrities.

Born in Netherland into a mixed Dutch and Nigerian family, William Troost Ekong previously played for the Netherland under 20 team before opting to play for the Nigerian side. He started his senior career playing for FC Groningen and FC Dordrecht both in Netherland respectively after previouisly playing for fulham and Tottenham in England at youth level.

He currently plays for Turkish club Bursaspor of the Süper Lig.

Congratulations to him!

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/troost-ekong-welcomes-baby-boy/

Little known Nigerian forward, Adeleke Akinyemi, will be one of the major attractions when his Latvian club, FK Ventspils take on French Ligue 1 outfit, Girondis Bordeaux in the UEFA Europa League, second qualifying round, first leg clash on Thursday at the Olympiska Centra Stadion, Ventspils , reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Akinyemi, 19, hit the headlines in the previous round after scoring six goals over two legs against Albanian side, Luftetari Gjirokaster.

The young striker hit the back of the net four times in the first leg which Ventspils won 5-0 and netted twice in the reverse fixture which ended in a 3-3 draw.

He has scored 11 goals in 15 league games for Ventspils this season.

Bordeaux are the overwhelming favourites to win the tie and make it to the next round, but another impressive showing against the French club will further put Akinyemi in the top flight.

Former Golden Eaglets midfielder, Yakubu Alfa and Tosin Aiyegun are the other Nigeri at the club.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/europa-league-nigerian-forward-akinyemi-set-to-continue-scoring-spree-vs-bordeaux/

Former Golden Eaglets forward, Chrisantus Macaulay, made his debut for Finnish club, HJK Helsinki who battled their hosts Bate Borisov of Belarus to a 0-0 draw in their Champions League, second qualifying round, first leg tie on Wednesday, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Macaulay only linked up with HJK on a one-year deal from Spanish club, Real Murcia on Monday.

The striker who was top scorer at the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup in South Korea came in for Joao Klaus five minutes from time.

Another Nigerian, Faith Obilor who is a defender featured from start to finish in the game.

The 27-year-old picked up a yellow card in the 62nd minute.

The reverse fixture will take on place on August 1st at the Telia 5G-Arena in Helsinki, Finland.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ucl-2nd-q-round-1st-leg-chrisantus-debuts-obilor-in-as-hjk-helsinki-bag-away-draw/

Tyson Fury has labelled Anthony Joshua a disgrace for not reaching an agreement to fight Deontay Wilder in the United States.

Joshua holds the International Boxing Federation (IBF), World Boxing Association (WBA), World Boxing Organization (WBO) and International Boxing Organisation (IBO) heavyweight titles, but failed to reach a deal with WBC champion Wilder for a fight which would have unified the divisions’ belts.

Instead Joshua will take on Russia’s Alexander Povetkin, a mandatory challenger, on September 22 at Wembley as his next opponent after defeating Joseph Parker recently.

And Fury thinks Joshua is scared of fighting the American and believes the heavyweight division deserves better from their champion.

“I think it’s such a sad time for heavyweight boxing because you’ve got the so-called super champion and golden boy, Anthony Joshua, and he is avoiding Deontay Wilder and will not fight him at any cost,” Fury said in a video posted to Twitter.

“If you’re not going to fight someone for £40million, you’re not going to fight him for anything. It’s a disgrace and he’s a disgrace to boxing.

“And I think it needs somebody good enough to step up and take on the challenges and not be afraid – not be afraid to take risks and go to people’s backyards and do it.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/fury-labels-joshua-a-disgrace-for-failed-negation-to-fight-wilder-in-america/

Former Super Eagles forward, Victor Ikpeba, has expressed shock over the bribery incident involving the team’s assistant coach Salisu Yusuf, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports

Yusuf, who is in charge of Nigeria’s home-based Super Eagles was caught on camera taking cash from men posing as football agents.

The footage captured by controversial journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas in September 2017, few months to the African Nations Championship in Morocco where Nigeria came second behind the hosts.

In the video, Yusuf appeared to have recieved $1000, (N360,000), a bait for him to pick two certain players for the 2018 CHAN championship.

He was further promised 15% by the men posing as football agents of the players once they are able to seal a deal abroad.

“I’m shocked at what happened to Salisu Yusuf. This should be a lesson to all our indigenous coaches” Ikpeba wrote on his Twitter handle.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ikpeba-yusufs-bribery-allegation-saga-is-lesson-to-nigerian-coaches/

Super Eagles assistant coach, Salisu Yusuf, could be facing the wrath of FIFA, CAF and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) if found guilty after he was caught on camera taking cash from men posing as football agents.

The footage captured by controversial journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas in September 2017 – and has been broadcast for the first time by BBC Africa Eye.

In the video, the chief coach of the Super Eagles, and first assistant during the 2018 FIFA World Cup, appeared to have recieved $1000, (N360,000) to pick two players for the 2018 CHAN championship.

He was further promised 15% by the men posing as football agents of the players once they are able to seal a deal abroad.

In the the video clip posted online by the BBC, Yusuf was handed the cash with the agent saying,“ So if anything goes through and these players are able to get their contracts, you will get 15% of that contract,” one of the reporters posing as an agent told Yusuf to which he replied; “they will be in CHAN.”

​“You know in football it is supposed to be consistency and form,” Yusuf added.

The 56-year-old coach has also denied any wrongdoing, insisting that he did not promise or committed to selecting any player.

He also claimed that he never asked the reporters for money and that it was just offered to him. The coach also clarified that he received $750 not the $1000 claimed in the report.

He also claimed that he viewed the money as a trivial and symbolic value which falls within the gifts FIFA code allows for and that his influence over the players’ selection was never affected.

He also believes that he was never in breach of FIFA or NFF ethics code.​

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/yusuf-filmed-allegedly-taking-bribe-may-face-nff-caf-fifa-sanctions/

Sports Minister Solomon Dalung has maintained that President Muhammadu Buhari will not disregard court rulings as it concerns the NFF leadership tussle.

The Department of State Security (DSS) re-instated the Amaju Pinnick led board back to the NFF office in Abuja on Monday after Chris Giwa had taken over the reins of the federation ten days ago following a Supreme Court ruling and orders of the Federal High Court in Jos on the Nigeria Football Federation on April 27, 2018.

Dalung described the action of the DSS as “an invasion” by security operatives of the Nigeria Football Federation offices.

In a statement signed by Dalung and made available to Completesportsnigeria.com Dalung insisted that nothing has changed.

“What happened in the NFF is security excesses, but it will be sorted out,” Dalung said.

“As far as I am concerned, nothing has changed. There is no development after the Supreme Court ruling of April 27, 2018 and the Federal High Court Order of 5th June 2018 because the court has not vacated the order,” the minister said.

“Those who are presently trying to instigate confusion, using the name of the President must be aware that the President cannot go against the rule of law.

“The order issued by the court has not been vacated and the President cannot vacate a court order because there are clear cut processes of doing that.”

“We want to assure Nigerians that Government is sorting out the grey areas but nobody should drag the name of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria into this.

“The President is an advocate of the rule of law and he cannot be associated with the security excesses of a breach of the rule of law.”

“The federal government is urging members of the public to remain calm as it is doing its best to resolve the crises in the Nigeria Football Federation.”

“The Ministry of Youth and Sports Development has already initiated a process of trying to bring the stakeholders together, to work out a road map out of this quagmire.”

“The stakeholders’ meeting billed for Tuesday July 24, 2018 will still go ahead as planned.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/dalung-president-buhari-cant-defile-court-orders-on-nff-crisis-dss-excesses-will-be-sorted-out/

Taiwo Awoniyi has today joined KAA Gent on a season-long loan deal, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The striker, who signed a new long-term Liverpool contract last week, will spend the 2018-19 campaign with the Belgian club.

Awoniyi originally moved to Anfield from the Imperial Soccer Academy in his homeland of Nigeria in the summer of 2015.

The 20-year-old, who has represented Nigeria at U17, U20 and U23 levels, has had loan spells with FSV Frankfurt, NEC Nijmegen and Royal Excel Mouscron in the last three seasons.

KAA Gent finished fourth in the Belgian top-flight last term, securing a berth in the final round of Europa League qualification.

Awoniyi was unveiled by Gent on Monday and the Buffalos gleefully announced it on their official website

” Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi is on loan for one season from the English club, Liverpool FC. The 20-year old Awoniyi (August 12, 1997) played last season at Excelsior Mouscron on loan and did very well there. In 31 matches, he scored 10 goals and gave 7 assists,” Gent stated in their welcome message.

“Also against the Buffalo’s he proved his worth: he gave the assist for the of Mouscron’d equalizer against Ghent in the 3-2 defeat at Le Cannonier and he also scored the equalizer at 1-1 at the Ghelamco Arena later last season with the Buffalo’s winning 3-1.

“Awoniyi also represented Nigeria several times at the national youth teams , including the Nigerian U17, U20 and U23. He scored 11 goals in 23 games.

“We wish Taiwo a goal-fit and successful season at the Buffalo’s!”

Their season begins on Friday night with a trip to Standard Liege .

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/awoniyi-joins-kaa-gent-as-one-season-loanee-from-liverpool/

Nigeria’s U-20 Women Team, the Super Falconets started their foreign tour on a winning note by pipping Austrian side, FC Bergheim 3-0 in a friendly game on Sunday, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Goals from Adebisi Saheed and Monday Gift plus an own-goal by their opponent gave the Falconets the win.

Their next game is against FC Wacker Innsbruck of Austria.

The Chris Danjuma led team who arrived in Austria on Saturday are in the country for a 12- day training exercise ahead of the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals taking place in France next month.

They will leave for France on August 2nd ahead of the tournament starting on August 5th.

Nigeria will battle Haiti, China and Germany in Group D at the competition.

The Falconets’ opening match is against perennial foes Germany (who beat Nigeria in the 2010 and 2014 Final matches) at the Stade de Marville in Saint-Malo on Monday, 6th August, before clashes with Haiti at the same venue on Thursday, 9th August and against China in Dinan/Léhon’s Stade de Clos Gastel on Monday, 13th August.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/falconets-beat-austrian-side-fc-bergheim-in-friendly/

Nigeria midfielder, Ibrahim Alhassan, says that he is looking forward to having a successful time with his new Portuguese club, CD Nacional, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Alhassan penned a four-year contract with with CD Nacional on Thursday.

The former Akwa United star was initially set to join another Portuguese club, SC Maritimo but the deal broke down over the transfer fee.

“All the glory be to God today�� for giving me a new opportunity with @CDNacional ✍���⚽. Looking forward to helping this great club and my new team to win �,” reads a tweet on his Twitter handle.

Alhassan featured for Austrian club, Austria Wien on loan from Nigeria Amateur side, FC Hearts last season.

He has won three international caps for Nigeria.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/alhassan-i-want-to-help-cd-nacional-win-trophies/

Kenneth Omeruo has rejoined Chelsea for pre-season ahead of the forthcoming English Premier League season, and the Super Eagles defender flaunts his ambition and eagerness for hard work as he arrived The Blues’ Cobhams training ground on Thursday, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Omeruo who has spent the last five seasons away from the club on loan posted a picture of himself undergoing fitness tests at the club on his Instagram Page on Thursday.

“First day Inn…work-mode #omeruo #cfc #cobhams,” he stated.
Omeruo has played on loan at Dutch side, ADO Den Haag, English Championship side, Middlesbrough, and Turkish clubs, Kasimpasa twice and Alanyasor.

He was part of Nigeria’s squad to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia where played two of the Super Eagles’ three games in the group stage.
Omeruo’s compatriot, Victor Moses has also rejoined the club for pre-season and will also undergo routine medical checks at the club.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/omeruo-rejoins-chelsea-for-pre-season-flaunts-day-one-work-mode/

IK Start midfielder, Afeez Aremu hopes his inclusion in the Flying Eagles squad for Saturday’s U-20 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Mauritania in Lagos ends in a victory for the seven time champions, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

The Flying Eagles were forced to a 1-1 draw in the first leg of the final qualifying fixture in Nouakchott and the former Akwa United star admits it’s time to finish off the job at the Agege Stadium Lagos.

“We are in a delicate position and we are well aware of that,” Aremu told Completesportsnigeria.com at the team’s Pearlwort Hotel camp in Ikeja.

“We need to win and ensure qualification and I pray my inclusion brings that to the team.”

The Flying Eagles’ lodged at the Pearlwort Hotel camp in Ikeja and have been training at the Agege Stadium since returning from Nouakchott last Sunday.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Egyptian officials to take charge of the match, with Mahmoud Zakaria Mohamed El Banna as the Centre Referee.

El Banna will work with compatriots Ahmed Taha Hossam (Assistant Referee 1), Hany Abdelfattah Mahmoud Elsnadidy (Assistant Referee 2) and Ahmed Mahrous Mahmoud Ahmed Hassan ElGhandour (Reserve Referee).

Mr. Sallieu Kamara from Sierra Leone will serve as match commissioner.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/u-20-afcon-qualifiers-aremu-eager-to-help-flying-eagles-go-past-mauritania/

Hibernian’s Nigerian defender Efe Ambrose has been linked with a move to Turkish Super Lig club, Trabzonspor, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Ambrose who has a buyout clause of €300,000 with his Scottish side, Hibernian, is in his final year contract and Trabzonspor’s coach, Unal Karaman is eager to push through a deal for the experienced centre-back, according to a report on Fanatik.com.tr.

Trabzonspor currently have on their books Super Eagles vice-captain Ogenyi Onazi.

Trabzonspor have also been linked with moves for Bakary Kone, Majid Hosseini, Sitoe Mexer and Papy Djilobodji.

Ambrose was in action for Hibernian in Thursday’s Europa League first qualifying round tie win over NSI Runavik of Faroe Islands. Hibernian won 6-4 away from home for a 12-5 aggregate win with Ambrose scoring at both ends.

Ambrose scored an own goal to hand the hosts the lead in the first minute but made amends in the 50th minute as Hibs took a 4-3 lead.

The 29 year old defender has spent six years in Scotland playing for Celtic FC and Hibernian having joined from Israeli side, Ashdod FC in 2012.

He played 47 times for the Super Eagles and scored three goals.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/trabzonspor-plot-ambrose-signing-from-hibernian/

Alex Iwobi hopes that the Super Eagles can learn from their early exit from the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and build on it for a better future.

Gernot Rohr’s men finished third in Group D after defeats to Croatia and Argentina, on either side of a 2-0 win over Iceland.

“The squad is young and we picked important lessons that will hopefully help us going forward,” the Arsenal winger told BBC Sport.


“Attention will soon shift to the Nations Cup and we must make our World Cup lessons count.”

Against Argentina in their final Group D match, the Super Eagles were four minutes away from booking a place in the knockout stages, but Marcos Rojo struck late to break their hearts.

“We had a lot of hopes and believed that we could do well. We are very proud of ourselves and are going to take the positives of course,” Iwobi added.

“We are just unfortunate about the last minute goal that came against Argentina which led to a defeat that knocked us out of the group. We are taking positives but we are very happy with what we did.”

The Nigerian fans had hoped that Iwobi would play a key role in Russia, but were left disappointed that the Arsenal player was only given a half against Croatia and late substitute appearances against Iceland and Argentina.

“It’s not just me or my tournament, it’s Nigeria’s tournament,” he remarked.

“The coach did put me in that position because he wanted to try something new, try something else, so I had no problems because at the end of the day it is what the manager decides is what goes.”

Next up for Nigeria is a 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Seychelles in September.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/iwobi-eagles-must-make-2018-world-cup-lessons-count-in-afcon-2019-campaign/

Former Argentina forward, Carlos Tevez, has urged Lionel Messi not to retire from international football, but advises that the country should do more to support their star player in the future.

The Barcelona man once again came under intense scrutiny after Argentina crashed out of the 2018 FIFA World Cup to France in the second round.

He scored just one goal in La Albiceleste’s four games in the competition.

“I think Leo has to think about himself,” Tevez told ESPN.

“He has to think that, if there is not a project that makes him happy and in which he feels comfortable, it is very difficult to take the responsibility of leading Argentina to become champions by himself.

“We are wasting a lot of time not having him happy and not being able to give him a hand to achieve that target. I think we are wrong in not being able to help him feel comfortable.

“As a player and as an Argentine, I tell him that we need him, that he tries to rest, that he keeps a cool head and that we need him. We need him because he is the soul of Argentina and, as long as he continues playing football, it has to be that way because he is Argentina’s biggest idol and he has to take that responsibility.

“Now [I tell him] to rest, keep a cool head and try to be well, then we need him to take charge and on the pitch.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/tevez-urges-messi-not-to-retire-from-international-football/

IK Start midfielder, Afeez Aremu, has been handed a late invitation to Nigeria’s U-20 team, the Flying Eagles ahead of Saturday’s 2019 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations second leg Final Round qualifier against Mauritania in Lagos, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

The 18 year old who has trained twice with the team in Lagos is in line to make his debut for the team ahead of the crucial game against Mauritania on Saturday.

Aremu has scored three goals in 18 league games for his Norwegian side, IK Start since joining the club in March.

“He (Aremu) is in the squad for the game and may likely play,” a camp source told CSN.

“He joined up with the team in training on Tuesday after a letter was sent to his club seeking his release for the crucial game.”

The Flying Eagles played a 1-1 draw away in Nouakchott, Mauritania last Saturday in the first leg. A goalless draw will see Aigbogun’s men advance to the 2019 U20 AFCON.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/aigbogun-hands-norway-based-aremu-flying-eagles-call-up/

Super Eagles B team midfielder, Kelechi Nwakali, has officially joined Portuguese side, FC Porto B on a season loan deal [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The Portuguese giants have an option to make the deal permanent in 12 months’ time.

Nwakali told FC Porto: “My main goal is to develop and evolve as a player, to improve my qualities and the other aspects that I know I need to correct to grow in the way I play.

“I think FC Porto is the right place to evolve as a player.”

Nwakali also hopes to meet FC Porto legend Deco to recount how impactful he was to his career.

“I know Porto very well, because one of my idols in football played here: Deco. He was a player that I loved to watch and I hope one day being able to meet him and tell him the importance he had in my desire to be a football player.”

The 19 year-old midfielder had been sent out on loan to Dutch second tier team, MVV Maastricht and VVV Venlo in the topflight division from Arsenal.

The former Golden Eaglets and Flying Eagles captain is under contract until June 2021 with the English Premier League club, Arsenal.

He made his debut for Super Eagles B team in an international friendly against Atletico Madrid in May where the Nigerian team lost 3-2.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/kelechi-nwakali-officially-joins-fc-porto-b-on-loan-from-arsenal-says-its-ideal-switch/

Turkish side Galatasaray have entered the race to sign Leicester City forward, Ahmed Musa, for the new seasom reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Musa who has been linked with a £40 million move to Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia is seen as a versatile player who could play as a striker and as a winger by Galatasaray coach, Fatih Terim.

According to Turkish website, Fanatik.com.tr, Galatasaray who will be competiting in three competitions in the coming season are hoping to lure the 25 year old to Turkey with the prospect of UEFA Champions League football this new season as a bait.

Musa’s outstanding performances at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia, especially his match-winning double against Iceland, has seen him attract several suitors during the transfer window.

Premier League rivals Fulham and Huddersfield Town have also been linked with a move for Musa who has been touted to leave the King Power Stadium this summer.

The Nigeria international joined Leicester City for £16 million from CSKA Moscow two years ago. He returned to Russian side as loanee and impressed again.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/galatasaray-join-race-for-musa/

Nigerian striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, has officially signed a contract extension with Liverpool FC, [url]Completeportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

The duration of the deal was not disclosed officiaaly but a close source to the player revealed to Completesportsnigeria.com that the 20-year-old extended his deal at Anfield by another two years.

The 20-year-old striker, who joined the Reds in August 2015, put pen to paper on the deal at Melwood on Tuesday following a successful season in Belgium’s top flight with Royal Excel Mouscron where he scored 10 goals and made four assists.

Awoniyi told Liverpoolfc.com: “I feel excited and I feel very happy.

“It has been three years since I first came to Liverpool. So far, so good. The last year was the best for me, it has been an amazing year so far.

“I just have to keep working hard each year and I believe one day the dream will come true.

“Thanks to my family, who have been so supportive. I’m very glad and excited about this contract and hopefully, to have an even better year.”

Awoniyi joined Liverpool from the Imperial Soccer Academy in Nigeria.

He represented Nigeria at U-23 level and has spent the last three seasons on loan at FSV Frankfurt, NEC Nijmegen and Royal Excel Mouscron respectively.

Awoniyi, a U-17 World Cup winner is aiming to improve further in the coming campaign with a view to earning a call-up to Nigeria’s senior national team, the Super Eagles.

“That is a big part of the ambition for me,” he said.

“I have played for many years with the youth teams, and I look forward to hopefully getting a chance with the senior team.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/awoniyi-pens-new-liverpool-deal-eager-to-earn-super-eagles-call-up/

Super Eagles midfielder, John Ogu, made his first official appearance for Israeli club, Hapoel Be’er Sheva this season in their UEFA Champions League first qualifying round, second leg fixture against Estonia outfit, Flora on Tuesday, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Ogu, who started pre-season training with Hapoel Be’er Sheva last week featured from start to finish in the encounter which his side won 2-0 at the Yaakov Turner Toto Stadium.

Hen Ezra and Hanan Maman got the goal for Be’er Sheva who qualified on 6-1 aggregate scoreline having won the first leg 4-1 away from home.

Little known Nigerian defender, Faith Obilor also ended on the winning side as his Finnish club, HJK Helsinki recorded a 3-1 win against Vikungur of Faroe Islands.

HJK edged the contest 5-2 on aggregate having won the first leg 2-1.

Obilor, 24, who is a defender was on for the entire 90 minutes in the encounter.

Vikungur’s Nigerian forward, Adeshina Lawal, also started the game but was replaced in the 72nd minute by Andreas Olsen.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ucl-1st-qualifying-round-ogu-obilor-in-action-as-beer-sheva-helsinki-win-to-advance/

Oghenekaro Etebo is thrilled after having his first training with his new English Championship side, Stoke City at their pre-season training camp in Germany, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Etebo signed a five-year deal with the Potters shortly after the start of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia where he was one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the tournament.

The 22 year old took to his Instagram page on Monday to reveal that he was impressed with first training session and eager for the new challenge in the new season.

“Good first day at training, pleased to be here and excited for the challenge ahead. #EK# StokeCity,” Etebo wrote on his Instagram page on Monday.

Stoke City got relegated from the English Premier League to the English Championship last season.

Etebo joined Stoke City from Portuguese side Feriense after spending two years at the club. He played four seasons for Nigerian Professional Football League club Warri Wolves before leaving the shores of the country.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/etebo-raring-to-go-at-stoke-city-after-first-training-at-pre-season-camp/