₦airaland Forum

Ezekiel Henty scored his third league goal of the season for NK Osijek who spanked NK Istra 1961 3-0 in a Croatian league game played on Sunday, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Henty broke the deadlock for his side in the 49th minute of the encounter. It was his third league game of the season.

At the Emirates Stadium in England, Alex Iwobi was an unused substitute in Arsenal’s 2-0 loss to Manchester City in Sunday’s English Premier League game.

A goal in each half from Raheem Sterling and Bernado Silva handed Arsenal their first defeat of the season.

In France, Samuel Kalu was not included in Bordeaux’s squad that lost 2-0 to Strasbourg in a French Ligue 1 encounter on Sunday.

Taiwo Awoniyi extended his goal drought in the Belgian Pro Division to three games for KAA Gent who defeated Waasland Beveren 4-1.

Awoniyi who celebrated his 21st birthday on Sunday played for 71 minutes before he was replaced.

In the Scottish topflight division, Sadiq Umar came on for Alfredo Morelos in the 77th minute as Rangers recorded a 2-0 home win over St Mirren. It was his first league appearance for the club in the SPL.

Efe Ambrose played all 90 minutes in Hibernian who played out a 1-1 draw with St Johnstone.

henty

In Switzerland, Blessing Eleke played all 90 minutes for FC Luzern who lost 3-2 to Young Boys.

Stephen Odey featured for 37 minutes in FC Zurich’s goalless draw against FC St Gallen before he was replaced by Benjamin Kololli.

Odey has made four appearances for FC Zurich who remain fourth in the Swiss Super League table.

In Turkey, Trabzonspor handed Ogenyi Onazi his first start of the season in the Sunday’s 2-0 loss to Istanbul Basaksehir.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/roundup-henty-bags-3rd-goal-of-season-in-croatia-awoniyi-fires-blanks-in-gents-win/

Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, has congratulated table tennis star, Aruna Quadri after he clinched the men’s singles title at the 2018 ITTF Challenge Seamester Nigeria open on Sunday, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Aruna, 27, defeated Antoine Hachard from France 4-2 (13-11, 3-11 11-8, 7-11, 5-11,7-11 ) in the final staged at the Molade Okoya Hall of the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Lagos.

The 18th ranked player was the first ever Nigerian to lift the title.

“Congratulations to our own Aruna Quadri, on emerging as the winner of the International Table Tennis Federation Challenge. #NigeriaOpen2018,” reads a tweet on the governor’s official Twitter handle.

Quadri received $5,000 prize money for winning the competition.

He was also rewarded with an extra N1 million naira by the Lagos State governor.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ambode-congratulates-ittf-nigeria-open-mens-singles-champion-quadri/

Super Eagles manager, Gernot Rohr, says that he may invite FK Ventspils of Latvia free-scoring striker, Adeleke Akinyemi for Nigeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Seychelles on September 7 in Victoria, Seychelles.

Rorh told girondins4ever.com, an unofficial website of French Lique 1 side, Girondins Bordeaux after watching the Nigerian score his seventh goal in five Europa League qualifying games against Bordeaux early this month that the 20 year old Akinyemi has the qualities to play for the Super Eagles.

“I was not able to see him play before the World Cup because he was an academy player who left for Europe without playing in the Nigerian youth teams.I saw his statistics (scored 23 goals in 37 league games), and I thought I had to look at him. And indeed, he was good. He has qualities, I may invite him one of these days, perhaps for the next game,” said Rohr who advised Bordeaux should sign him.

“I think he is worth taking a look at. He is very young and will not cost Bordeaux much money. He has huge room for improvement.He is powerful, he gets inside, he scores goals. It’s rare to have all these qualities in a player.”

Rohr also spoke about Samuel Kalu who recently trasfered to Bordeaux from Belgian side, KAA Gent.

“I saw him play before the World Cup but I selected Moses Simon who I considered a better player,” said Rohr promising to start monitoring him.

”He is very fast, he’s a good dribbler, he’s an overflowing winger.He is also explosive.I hope the Girondins will have the satisfaction of seeing him evolve with these qualities.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/afcon-2019-qualifiers-rohr-set-to-give-akinyemi-eagles-debut-vs-seychelles/

Chelsea defender Kenneth Omeruo is locked in talks with Super Lig giants Besiktas, Galatasaray and Fenerbahce according to the Aksam newspaper.

Per the source, Omeruo’s agent is negotiating with all three clubs.

Chelsea manager Sarri does not have plans for the Nigeria international next season but he does have another two-years left on his contract.

Omeruo could be headed for yet another temporary move. The defender would complete his fourth loan transfer to Turkey if he were to return this summer.

The 25-year-old has played two seasons at Kasimpasa and one at Alanyaspor.

The centre-back would make his most high profile loan move to date if he does join one of the three major Istanbul clubs.
The report states that Omeruo is keen on returning to Turkey over the transfer window after an impressive season at Kasimpasa.
Galatasaray and Fenerbahce are reported to be favorites ahead of Besiktas.

The Black Eagles are reportedly in no rush to sign a new defender but are considering their options in case one of either Pepe or Domagoj Vida leaves.

Despite joining Chelsea back in 2012, Omeruo is yet to make a senior appearance for the London based club.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/omeruo-in-talks-with-besiktas-gala-fenerbahce/

Nigerian winger, Samuel Kalu, has linked up with French Ligue 1 side, Girondis Bordeaux on a five- year deal from Belgian outfit, KAA Gent, [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url] reports.

Bordeaux announced on Sunday that they have reached agreement with Gent for the transfer of the talented winger.

They have now confirmed the capture of the 22-year-old for a reported €8m fee.

“#Mercato � It’s done! Samuel #Kalu is Girondins! The striker �� has committed for 5 years with the club from @KAAGent!,” reads a tweet on on Girondis Bordeaux’s official Twitter handle on Monday.

Kalu comes in as a direct replacement for Brazilian winger Malcom who joined Spanish champions Barcelona this summer for €30m from Bordeaux.

Kalu scored seven league goals in 32 appearances for Gent last season in the Belgian Juliper league.

He joined K.A.A Gent from AS Trencin of Slovakia in 2016.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/kalu-joins-french-club-bordeaux-on-five-year-contract/

Wilfred Ndidi has backed his Super Eagles teammate Kelechi Iheanacho to replicate his pre-season goal scoring form when Leicester City takes on Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Iheanacho has been on fire in pre-season with his brace in the victory against Lille on Saturday taking his tally to four goals in his last three friendlies.

Iheanacho is expected to start up front for Leicester City at Old Trafford with main striker Jamie Vardy ruled out due to his late comeback from the World Cup.

Ndidi revealed he and Iheanacho have been doing extra training together to get themselves prepared for the start of the Premier League season on Friday night, having both returned late to pre-season following their own exploits in Russia.

“Yes, Kelechi is getting there because we work every day in training,” Ndidi told Leicester City Mercury.

“I wasn’t even surprised he scored with the head because just the other day we practice just me and him, just passes and just playing and try to practice.”

“It was good and in the previous games also it was good he scored in these games for the confidence. I hope he can keep confidence for the next games, not just him but all of the players.”

On Leicester City’s 2-1 win over Lille, Ndidi said: “It was a really, really tough game. This kind of game is really good because this kind of win gives us confidence in our performance level.”

“Of course, that is the idea of the pre-season games, not just the confidence; the match fitness and trying to play together again so it was good,” said Ndidi.

“Because of the international players we didn’t get to play too much but the coach tried to manage the players, giving everyone the minutes and I feel we are getting there.”

“We try to manage that kind of situation in the first minute and then we try not to make it happen in the next game. The game was very very challenging so it was a good game for us to go into the next one.”

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/ndidi-backs-iheanacho-to-continue-scoring-form/

Nigeria forward Kelechi Iheanacho hopes he can continue to find the back of the net for Leicester City as the kick-off for the 2018/19 Premier League campaign draws closer, reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

Iheanacho grabbed his second pre-season goal for the Foxes in Wednesday’s 1-1 draw against Spanish club, Valencia at the King Power Stadium.

He also scored in Claude Puel’s men previous game game against Udinese of Italy which they lost 2-1.

Leicester’s pre-season campaign comes to an end on Saturday, when they take on Lille OSC at Stade Pierre-Mauroy, a game Iheanacho hopes to again impress in.

“It was a good test for us and it’s a good game as well,” Iheanacho told the club’s official website.

“Valencia are a good team as we all know and we worked hard in training to prepare for this game.

“It wasn’t a bad outcome so we’re looking forward to the next game.”

Iheanacho’s goal came as a result of some fine work from James Maddison , who put in another exciting display in Leicester colours.

“It was a scramble with Madders (James Maddison) and then the ball bounced out and dropped to me so I finished it,”the former Manchester City stated while talking about the goal.

“Of course, I would love to keep it (goalscoring) going, it’s been a good pre-season for us so I’d love to keep the form and keep scoring goals.”

Leicester City will face Manchester United in their opening fixture in the new season and Iheanacho is looking forward to the game with high hopes.

“I think it’s going to be a good game but we need to keep working hard and make sure we get the goals,” he added.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/iheanacho-hopes-to-maintain-goalscoring-form-for-leicester-city/

Nigerian forward Umar Sadiq could make his official debut for Rangers in their second qualifying round second leg UEFA Europa League tie against Osijek of Croatia at the Ibrox Stadium on Thursday reports [url]Completesportsnigeria.com[/url].

The 21 year old signed a season-long loan deal from Roma earlier this month and has been named in Rangers match day squad against Osijek.

Rangers manager, Steven Gerrard reckons Sadiq will be a real handful for defenders when he’s up to speed.

Sadiq needed just six minutes to open his account for Rangers in a 3-0 friendly win against Wigan bundling home a Glenn Middleton cross on Sunday.

“He is still finding his feet, he is still a bit rusty, but you saw glimpses of what he is about against Wigan,” Gerrard told Daily Record.

“I love it when he is aggressive and on the front foot, he puts pressure on people and he runs hard. You can see there’s potential in there to be a right handful and that’s what we want him to be.”

After Thursday’s clash against Osijek, Rangers will open the new Scottish Premiership season away at Aberdeen on Sunday, August 5. Rangers have failed to overcome Derek McInnes’ side in each of the last two seasons.

Source:https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/sadiq-set-for-europa-league-debut/

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/